IRE Survival Guide: What To Know Before You Go

IRE is just around the corner! Roofers wait every year for the International Roofing Expo. While we are so excited to meet you all in Las Vegas in February, we want to make sure you’re prepared and ready to make the most of this expo.

Roofing events are so important

Roofing is such a community-focused industry. Having people you can lean on for support, bounce business ideas off of, and share ideas with is so important for a business to grow and thrive. Events like IRE, RoofCon and RISE help you build your roofing community.

Roofing events are also a great way to brush up on your industry knowledge and keep tabs on upcoming business tips, tricks, and trends. The only way to implement change or updates to your business is if you first KNOW about changes you can make. Events are an incredible way to learn about potential ways to grow your business.

About IRE

IRE — or the International Roofing Expo — is the largest roofing and exteriors expo in North America. Both residential and commercial contractors attend to discover the latest tech, meet potential suppliers, discover new products, and to stay up to date with industry trends.

Whether you're a seasoned roofer or a newcomer to the industry, attending a trade show like IRE can be a game-changer for your roofing tech knowledge and business networking.

We want you to get the most of your experience. So, we’ve compiled a survival guide with essential tips for packing, navigating the show, and making the most of your time, including a must-visit stop at the Roofr booth — #8310.

Packing essentials: Be prepared for anything

Success at the IRE stars before you get there. Make sure you set yourself up before you go by packing everything you need.

1. Comfortable clothing:

Las Vegas can be unpredictable when it comes to weather, so pack layers. Temperatures in February can go as high as 64°F and drop as low as 42°F. Trade show floors can also get chilly, so it’s never a bad idea to have a jacket, cardigan, sweater, or pullover.

Think about your feet too! You’ll be walking all day, standing and talking to folks, so make sure you pack comfortable shoes. If you buy new shoes for the show, try to wear them in a week or two before the event.

NOTE: Professional attire for events in Las Vegas

It’s important to note that many Las Vegas venues and events do have dress codes enforced. While you want to be comfortable during the expo, be sure to have professional clothing or more formal attire for specific events.

2. Business cards:

Remember what we said about networking? Business cards are key! Don't forget to pack a stack of business cards to pass off to new friends, enter in competitions, or hand off to salesfolks you want to hear back from. Networking is a significant part of IRE, and having your contact information readily available makes connecting with industry professionals a breeze.

Want to take your business cards to the next level? Consider adding a QR code that sends people to your website, company reviews or Instant Estimator. That will be sure to make you stand out.

3. Tech gear:

Roofing tech is evolving, and you'll want to capture every moment. Bring your smartphone, tablet, or a lightweight laptop for note-taking, photos, and staying connected with the latest trends.

Tech gear is also helpful for traveling to and from the show. Headphones can make a major difference on a flight or car ride.

4. Chargers and power banks:

With a day full of exploring and networking, your devices are likely to drain quickly. Charge up your extra power banks or external batteries early.

Being able to charge on the go can be really handy with long days, too. Days at the IRE don’t end when the trade show floor closes; After parties, networking events, team dinners, or even the Roofr Shingle and Mingle event can go for hours after. You’ll want to have a charged phone for all of these.

5. Reusable Water Bottle:

Hydration is key! Days are long, you’ll be doing lots of talking, and your sleep schedule will probably be a little wonky. Drinking lots of water can help you feel good for the entire show. Plus, Las Vegas is in the desert, and the convention center can get dry. Having a reusable water bottle will save you money and keep you refreshed.

Navigating the trade show: Tips and tricks

Now that you have everything you need for the show, here’s how to make the most of the actual event.

1. Plan your schedule:

IRE is packed with seminars, workshops, and exhibitor demonstrations. Plan your schedule in advance to ensure you don't miss out on sessions relevant to roofing tech and business growth.

2. Visit Roofr at Booth #8310:

Make sure to stop by the Roofr booth #8310 to see our CRM in action. Our team will be there to showcase the latest advancements, answer your questions, and provide live demonstrations. Plus, if you attend a demo of the Roofr product, you’ll get a $25 Amazon gift card!

3. Embrace networking:

Take advantage of the networking opportunities IRE provides. It can feel awkward to introduce yourself to people and start conversations, but we promise you — everyone is doing it.

Attend social events, join industry-specific meetups, and engage with fellow roofers. You never know where a valuable connection might lead! This is a key point when those business cards come in handy.

4. Ask questions:

Don't be shy about approaching exhibitors and speakers. Ask questions, seek advice, and engage in conversations. Trade shows are the perfect opportunity to gain insights from industry leaders. Every exhibitor is there to engage and speak with you. If anything, they want you to ask questions! Embrace the opportunity to learn as much as you can while you’re there.

5. Collect swag and literature:

We all know that roofers love swag. Roofing expos are notorious for cool swag. At RoofCON one year, roofers could even get a tattoo! Again, just like with questions, companies bring swag to hand out. BE sure to pick some up, grab any handouts you want to look through later, and have fun!

IRE: An expo you won't want to miss

If you want to book a Roofr demo ahead of time, or sign up for our FREE Shingle & Mingle event, click HERE.

In the meantime, get excited for the show, and we will see you in Las Vegas in February!