Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Jessica Bravo.  

Descubre los eventos, seminarios y expositores que formarán parte del Western Roofing Expo 2026. 

Mantenerse al día en la industria del roofing puede ser todo un desafío. Ya sea enfrentando tormentas cada vez más intensas en el campo o lidiando con la escasez de mano de obra y materiales desde la oficina, contar con la información y las herramientas adecuadas es clave para seguir siendo competitivo. Afortunadamente, la Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) organiza cada año el Western Roofing Expo (WRE), un evento de dos días diseñado para ayudar a los profesionales del roofing a enfrentar estos retos y conocer las últimas tendencias de la industria. 

Considerado uno de los principales eventos regionales de roofing e impermeabilización, el WRE ofrece una exposición comercial de dos días, más de 30 seminarios educativos, almuerzos especializados, la competencia The Roofing Games™, torneos de golf y tiro deportivo (sporting clays), una subasta en vivo, demostraciones de productos y mucho más. Este año, el evento se llevará a cabo del 27 al 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas, en Las Vegas, Nevada. 

El corazón del evento 

Las principales actividades se desarrollarán el lunes 28 y martes 29 de septiembre, con un programa que incluye 30 seminarios educativos, dos almuerzos especializados y un piso de exhibición con acceso gratuito para contratistas. 

Los seminarios del WRE son una excelente oportunidad para fortalecer conocimientos tanto técnicos como empresariales. Especialistas de toda la industria compartirán información sobre administración de negocios, tendencias del mercado, innovación y desarrollo técnico. Los asistentes también encontrarán rostros conocidos de la familia de The Coffee Shops™, entre ellos Trent Cotney de Adams and Reese, Amparo Sancen de Latinos En Roofing, John Kenney de Cotney Consulting Group y la presidenta de RoofersCoffeeShop®, Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

WSRCA ha preparado dos almuerzos especialmente pensados para los asistentes. El primero será el lunes, de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m., patrocinado por National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Durante esta sesión, Craig Brightup, de The Brightup Group, y Chad Collins, de NRCA, analizarán las decisiones más recientes en Washington D.C. y cómo podrían afectar a la industria del roofing. 

El segundo almuerzo se realizará el martes, también de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m., con el patrocinio de Malarkey Roofing Products. En esta ocasión, los asistentes escucharán a la conferencista principal del WRE 2026, Shereen Thor, una comediante convertida en coach de liderazgo que ha trabajado con organizaciones como Google, Pandora, Slack, Safe Place for Youth y The Social Justice Learning Institute. Su conferencia ofrecerá herramientas útiles tanto para empresarios como para profesionales en cualquier etapa de su carrera. 

El piso de exhibición estará abierto el lunes y el martes. Esta será una excelente oportunidad para conocer las últimas innovaciones y tecnologías de la industria, ya que habrá demostraciones de productos cada hora. En ese mismo escenario de demostraciones también regresarán los esperados Roofing Games el martes. 

La exposición comercial también brinda la oportunidad de conversar con representantes de empresas líderes de la industria. ¿La mejor parte? ¡La entrada al piso de exhibición es GRATUITA para contratistas y roofers! Estaremos en el booth 12, así que no dejes de visitarnos para saludarnos. Además, muchos de nuestros amigos de la industria también estarán presentes, entre ellos Anchor Products (815), APOC (609), BITEC (151), Brava Roof Tile (840), Carlisle Architectural Metals (509), Drexel Metals (509), Equipter (826), Integrity Insurance & Bonding (360), Lakeside Construction Fasteners (154), New Tech Machinery (356), PABCO Roofing Products (703), Rocket Equipment (638), RoofScope (822), Sentry Building Innovations (150) and VELUX (361). 

Eventos adicionales y más 

Además de las actividades principales de los dos días, habrá eventos adicionales tanto antes (domingo 27 de septiembre) como después (miércoles 30 de septiembre). Davis Memorial Foundation organizará dos torneos, uno de tiro deportivo (sporting clays) y otro de golf. Los fondos recaudados en estos eventos se destinarán directamente al fondo de becas de Davis Memorial Foundation. Gracias a este programa, más de 195 estudiantes de preparatoria, licenciatura y posgrado han recibido apoyo para continuar con sus estudios. Estos eventos cuentan con un registro y una cuota de participación independientes. 

Miércoles 30 de septiembre, el International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) llevará a cabo una jornada especial de capacitación de 9:00 a.m. a 2:30 p.m. Este evento ayudará a los asistentes a fortalecer sus conocimientos sobre la industria de la envolvente del edificio (building enclosure). El programa incluye dos cursos: uno sobre los fundamentos de los sistemas de techado y otro enfocado en las actualizaciones más importantes de los códigos internacionales de construcción. El registro y la cuota para esta jornada de capacitación son independientes del registro general del evento. 

Regístrate y asegura tu lugar 

El registro para el WRE 2026 ya está abierto. Puedes registrarte en línea. El evento se llevará a cabo del 27 al 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas, en Las Vegas, Nevada. Al celebrarse en el Paris Las Vegas, existen diversas opciones de hospedaje cercanas. WSRCA ha negociado tarifas preferenciales en el Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood y Horseshoe Hotel, con habitaciones disponibles desde $91 dólares por noche. 

¿No estás seguro de que el costo del registro se ajuste a tu presupuesto? RoofersCoffeeShop®, en colaboración con Western Colloid, llevará a cinco profesionales al evento sin costo. Al participar en nuestro concurso, tendrás la oportunidad de ganar un pase con acceso a la exposición comercial, el almuerzo anual, el contenido en español, las sesiones educativas y el almuerzo legislativo. 

¡Conoce más sobre el WRE 2026!

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about all the events, seminars and exhibitors that will be at this year’s Western Roofing Expo. 

Navigating today’s roofing industry can be a bit of a challenge. Whether you’re facing more extreme storms in the field or juggling labor issues and material shortages in the office, it can be hard to stay up to date with the information and tools you need to succeed. Luckily, the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) hosts a two-day event designed to help professionals handle all those issues and more – Western Roofing Expo (WRE).  

This premier regional roofing and waterproofing event boasts a two-day trade show, over two dozen education seminars, multiple engaging luncheons, The Roofing Games™ shingling competition, golf and sporting clays tournaments, a live auction, product demonstrations and more! Keep reading to learn about what to expect from this year’s show, which will be held September 27-29, 2026 at the Paris Las Vegas! 

The core of the show 

The core of the show occurs on Monday (9/28) and Tuesday (9/29) with 30 seminars planned, two luncheons organized and a trade show floor that is free for contractors to attend. 

The seminars at WRE are a great way to upgrade your skills! Experts from across the industry will be teaching about everything from business management to technical developments. And if you’re a part of The Coffee Shops™ family, there will be a lot of familiar faces like Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese, Amparo Sancen from Latinos En Roofing, John Kenney from Cotney Consulting Group and our very own president, Heidi J. Ellsworth!  

As for the luncheons, WSRCA has organized two invaluable luncheons for WRE attendees. The first will be hosted on Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is presented by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Craig Brightup, The Brightup Group, and Chad Collins, NRCA, will take this opportunity to talk to attendees about the key developments in Washington D.C. that are impacting the roofing industry.  

The second luncheon will run at the same time (11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) on Tuesday and is sponsored by Malarkey Roofing Products. This luncheon gives attendees an opportunity to hear from the WRE 2026 keynote speaker – Shereen Thor. Shereen is a comedian turned coach who has worked with organizations like Google, Pandora, Slack, Safe Place For Youth and The Social Justice Learning Institute. Her keynote will be a great resource to professionals and business owners in all parts of their careers.  

And last but not least, the trade show floor will be open both Monday and Tuesday. This is a great opportunity to see the latest innovations and newest technology in the industry as product demos will be hosted on the hour. At that same demo stage there will also be the return of the much-anticipated Roofing Games on Tuesday!  

The trade show is a great opportunity to talk to representatives of leading companies around the industry. And the best part? The exhibit floor is FREE for contractors and roofers to attend! We’ll be in booth 12, so make sure to stop by and say hi, and we have countless industry friends who will be around the floor, such as Anchor Products (815), APOC (609), BITEC (151), Brava Roof Tile (840), Carlisle Architectural Metals (509), Drexel Metals (509), Equipter (826), Integrity Insurance & Bonding (360), Lakeside Construction Fasteners (154), New Tech Machinery (356), PABCO Roofing Products (703), Rocket Equipment (638), RoofScope (822), Sentry Building Innovations (150) and VELUX (361). 

Additional events and more 

In addition to the core two days, there are extra events both before (Sunday, 9/27) and after (Wednesday, 9/30). On Sunday, the Davis Memorial Foundation will host two tournaments, one sporting clays tournament and one golf tournament. The proceeds from these events go directly to the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund. The scholarships from this fund have helped more than 195 aspiring high school, undergraduate and graduate students pursue their dreams. These events have their own registration and their own fees. 

And on that Wednesday, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants will host a special education day. This event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will elevate attendees’ expertise in the building enclosure industry. It features two courses, one about the fundamentals of roof assemblies and the other highlighting key updates to international codes. The registration and fees for this education day are separate from general registration. 

Get registered and reserved 

Registration for the 2026 WRE is now open! You can register online, again the show will be held at the Paris in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 27-29, 2026. Being at the Paris, there are many options for hotels nearby. WSRCA has worked specifically with the Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood and Horseshoe Hotel to get discounted room blocks that start as low as $91.  

Not sure if you can make the registration fee work in your budget? RoofersCoffeeShop® is partnering with Western Colloid to send five professionals to the show for free! By entering our contest, you get the chance to win an all-inclusive pass to the show, which gives you access to the trade show, annual luncheon, en Español content, educational sessions and the legislative luncheon.  

Learn more about the 2026 WRE show!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Why financing an Equipter 4000 can be one of the smartest investments a roofing contractor makes.

In today’s economy, roofing contractors are being challenged from every angle. Labor costs continue to rise, homeowners expect exceptional service and competition is stronger than ever. That is why successful contractors are looking for ways to improve efficiency, create a better customer experience and stand out from the competition. One investment that continues to deliver results is the Equipter 4000.

The Equipter 4000 has become one of the most recognized pieces of equipment on roofing jobsites across North America. Designed specifically for roofing contractors, the self-propelled debris management system allows crews to place debris directly into the container rather than throwing it to the ground and cleaning it up later. The result is a cleaner, safer and more professional jobsite.

The challenge for many contractors is not whether they want an Equipter 4000. It is how to fit the investment into their budget while maintaining healthy cash flow. That is where financing becomes an important business strategy.

Rather than tying up large amounts of capital in a single equipment purchase, financing allows contractors to put an Equipter 4000 to work immediately while spreading payments over time. Equipter offers financing resources that help contractors secure equipment without a major upfront cash investment. Financing options can provide manageable monthly payments while preserving working capital for payroll, marketing, materials and other growth initiatives.

The benefits

The real value of financing an Equipter 4000 comes from the return on investment. The Equipter comes with three primary ROIs. First, the equipment helps crews work faster by reducing manual cleanup and debris handling. It minimizes labor-intensive tasks and allows roofing teams to focus more time on production. Many contractors report increased productivity and cleaner jobsites that improve overall project efficiency.

Second, the Equipter 4000 creates a strong first impression with homeowners. Customers notice when a contractor arrives with specialized equipment designed to protect landscaping, contain debris and keep the property clean throughout the roofing process. That professionalism often becomes a competitive advantage as homeowners may not fully understand roofing systems, but they immediately recognize a contractor who is organized, prepared and invested in protecting their property. An Equipter 4000 demonstrates that commitment from the moment it arrives on the jobsite. Contractors consistently use photos and videos of the equipment in their sales presentations to show homeowners how their roofing process differs from competitors.

And third, the marketing benefits can be significant. Equipter promotes the concept of a "New Roof, No Mess" experience that helps contractors differentiate their businesses. Clean jobsites lead to happier homeowners, stronger referrals, better reviews and more repeat business. Many contractors have found that showcasing their Equipter equipment helps them close more jobs by demonstrating professionalism and care for customer property.

Think of it as an investment

For roofing companies looking to grow, financing an Equipter 4000 is not simply an equipment purchase. It is an investment in production, customer satisfaction and brand reputation. Instead of waiting years to save enough cash for the purchase, financing allows contractors to begin realizing those benefits immediately while making predictable monthly payments.

The roofing companies that continue to thrive are the ones willing to invest in tools that improve efficiency and customer experience. An Equipter 4000 helps contractors work smarter, look more professional and win more business. With financing options available, it may be one of the most practical ways for roofing companies to strengthen their operations and position themselves for long-term growth.

To learn more about financing options for the Equipter 4000, visit Equipter’s financing page. 

By Jenny Yu.  

Modern debris management like Equipter helps roofing contractors protect properties, build stronger reputations and generate long-term business growth. 

In today's roofing market, the customer experience extends far beyond the quality of the finished roof. Contractors are increasingly recognizing that jobsite cleanliness plays a critical role in customer satisfaction, online reputation and future business opportunities.  

From the moment a project begins until the final walkthrough, homeowners are evaluating how well a contractor protects their property. Debris left behind, damaged landscaping or lingering nails can quickly overshadow an otherwise successful installation. As a result, more roofing companies are investing in debris management practices and equipment like Equipter that help create cleaner, safer jobsites. 

A clean property sends a clear message about professionalism and attention to detail. It also helps build trust with homeowners, who often view jobsite management as a reflection of the quality of the work being performed. That trust can translate into stronger online reviews, referrals and repeat business. 

For Joe Davidson, owner of Davidson Roofing, the connection between cleanliness and business growth became clear after investing in dedicated cleanup equipment. “We invested in mobile dump containers and magnetic sweepers. The immediate uptick in positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals was undeniable,” Joe said in an article by Equipter. “Cleanliness is now a selling point, not just an afterthought.” 

Equipment such as the Equipter 4000 allows crews to position a mobile container at roof level, capturing debris before it reaches the ground. By reducing cleanup time and limiting the risk of property damage, contractors can improve efficiency while enhancing the customer experience. 

Clean jobsites also create valuable marketing opportunities. Contractors can showcase before-and-after project photos, cleanup processes and completed installations across websites, social media channels and customer communications. These visual examples reinforce a company's commitment to professionalism and help differentiate it in a crowded marketplace. 

Ultimately, jobsite cleanliness is no longer just an operational consideration. It is a business strategy that supports customer loyalty, strengthens brand reputation and helps generate future work. Contractors who prioritize debris management are not only protecting properties but also investing in long-term growth. 

Learn more about how Equipter can help you improve customer satisfaction and grow your roofing business!

By Jenny Yu.  

Proactive debris management strategies help contractors meet compliance requirements while boosting productivity. 

Roofing contractors are facing increased pressure to meet evolving safety regulations as enforcement from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) continues to intensify. According to Equipter, compliance today goes far beyond hard hats and harnesses, with added focus on heat illness prevention, jobsite organization and detailed reporting requirements. With fines reaching more than $14,000 per violation, the cost of falling short can quickly impact both profitability and project timelines. 

One of the most overlooked contributors to noncompliance is jobsite disorganization. Piles of debris, inefficient material handling and cluttered work zones create hazards that increase the risk of slips, trips and falls — some of the most common OSHA violations in roofing. Equipter highlights that these issues not only threaten worker safety but also slow productivity and expose contractors to preventable penalties. 

Modern debris management tools help contractors address these challenges at the source. Equipment like the RB4000 allows crews to deposit tear-off materials directly into an elevated container, keeping pathways clear and minimizing dangerous ground-level buildup. This approach reduces manual handling, shortens time spent on the roof and limits exposure to extreme heat — all key factors in maintaining compliance. 

Beyond safety, the operational benefits are significant. By streamlining cleanup and material flow, contractors can reduce labor strain, improve jobsite efficiency and complete projects faster. Research cited by Equipter shows that companies adopting modern debris management practices can reduce injury rates by more than 20% while also lowering the likelihood of fines and insurance costs. 

As OSHA standards continue to evolve, leading contractors are shifting from reactive safety measures to proactive jobsite strategies. Investing in the right equipment not only supports compliance but also reinforces a culture of safety, professionalism and profitability. 

To learn more about how Equipter can help you achieve OSHA compliance and improve jobsite efficiency, visit their website. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how rental access is making specialized roofing equipment more practical for contractors and expanding its reach across more jobs and markets. 

As roofing contractors look for ways to improve efficiency and reduce labor demands, equipment access is becoming just as important as equipment ownership. That shift is changing how contractors think about jobsite logistics, particularly when it comes to tear-offs, debris handling and the pace of production. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards spoke with Sam Beiler of Equipter and Phil Frid of Micro Rentals about how rental availability is helping more contractors put specialized equipment to work. 

Much of that value comes down to flexibility. Not every roofing company needs the same level of equipment investment, and not every contractor performs the same type of work on every job. Phil explained that renting gives contractors a practical option when ownership does not make financial sense. “Some roofing contractors don't do their own tear-offs, but they may run into a job that they're going to have to do the tear-off themselves. In that case, it would be convenient to rent an Equipter,” Phil said. “Other times, when it's a tear-off company that does tear-offs every day, it might be more convenient for them to buy it.” 

That flexibility is strengthened by the machine’s mobility and simplicity. Rather than relying solely on a stationary dumpster or a more labor-intensive chute setup, contractors can tow the unit to the jobsite, move it around the property and position it close to the work area. That reduces the limitation of the user’s ability to move debris multiple times while also helping protect landscaping, siding, windows and people on the ground. 

Ease of use also plays a role in adoption. As Phil put it, “It's lift, extend and retract and dump. That's all you need to do.” He added, “In 10 minutes, you can start doing your job.” 

At the same time, rental access is becoming easier to find. Sam pointed contractors to Equipter’s website, where users can enter their zip code and locate nearby rental providers. That feature helps connect contractors with local partners and makes the equipment more accessible in markets where buying may not be the best step. 

For many contractors, that accessibility offers more than convenience. It also creates a cleaner, safer and more professional presentation on the jobsite, something Phil said can help contractors stand out and win work. 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about how equipment rentals are expanding opportunities for roofing contractors!

By Jenny Yu.  

Equipter’s drivable debris containers are available for rent and purchase across the United States.   

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards spoke with Sam Beiler of Equipter and Phil Frid of Micro Rentals about how rental providers are spreading the word about the benefits and reach of the Equipter across the United States. 

Phil expressed how many contractors first turn to renting an Equipter 4000 when facing a challenging jobsite. “It often starts as a last resort, when contractors run into a problem like a roof that’s too steep or limited access to a driveway in an HOA community,” Phil explained. “Once they use it, they see all the benefits that you can get close to the roof.” 

From debris management to material delivery, the Equipter is a time and energy saver for contractors. “The roofing job is very physical, so this helps contractors do it with less effort and more efficiently,” Phil said. “It has the capacity to lift 4,000 pounds, so you can lift a pallet of shingles to a one-story house. Contractors cut half the time off clean-up and tear-offs because there’s no mess. They don’t have to throw debris on the floor. They eliminate double handle by throwing debris directly into the dumpster and driving it away.” 

With the company based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Sam emphasized the broader impact that the rental model has had on the Equipter’s reach. “There are over 300 Equipter rental providers across the United States, and the local connection has been awesome to see,” Sam said. “For roofing companies that don’t have the budget to buy equipment, a rental is a great solution.” 

With over 300 Equipter rental providers nationwide, Sam noted that local access through rental companies has fueled adoption. Furthermore, as labor challenges continue to shape the roofing landscape, rental partnerships provide flexible pathways to increased productivity.  

Read the first article in this series and Listen to the podcast to learn more about the impact of rental partnerships in spreading the word about Equipter nationwide. 

By Equipter. 

The Equipter 4000 helps contractors work faster, safer and cleaner. 

Designed to streamline jobsite cleanup and material handling, the Equipter 4000 from Equipter delivers a smarter way for contractors to work faster and cleaner. Built specifically for roofing construction professionals, this drivable debris container reduces manual labor, minimizes property damage and improves overall efficiency on demanding jobsites. With its combination of mobility, lifting power and operator-friendly controls, the Equipter 4000 helps crews spend less time managing debris and more time completing quality work.  

1 - Versatile modes for enhanced productivity 

    Work mode: Effortlessly disengage the Equipter 4000 to enter work mode, enabling you to drive, lift and dump. Maneuver tight access areas while not disrupting the landscaping. 

    Tow mode: The Tow Mode enables the Equipter 4000 to be transported from site to site with a pickup truck. Simply hitch the unit, disengage the drive axle and tow the Equipter away. 

2 - Precision driving and steering 

Navigate with ease thanks to the front-wheel steering and rear-wheel drive, featuring large wheels designed for maximum traction with minimal impact. Our videos demonstrate how the Equipter 4000 can tackle various terrains with precision. 

3 - Intuitive control panel 

Master the controls in no time with our easy-to-learn control panel, including an emergency stop feature for added safety. See the user-friendly design, crafted for efficiency and safety. 

4 - Powerful lift capabilities 

Elevate your work with a lift that reaches up to 12 feet and supports up to 4,000 pounds, complete with a 4-foot rollback for optimal positioning. Photos showcase the robust lift mechanism, designed for heavy-duty tasks. 

5 - Lightweight and durable construction 

At just 3,940 pounds, the Equipter 4000 boasts a steel frame and aluminum container, combining lightweight design with durability. This balance ensures easy maneuverability and longevity. 

6 - Powered by Honda 

At the heart of the Equipter 4000 is a 13 HP Honda engine, known for reliability and power. The Equipter 4000 features easy RPM adjustment and a generous fuel capacity, ready for extended use.  

7 - Safety comes first 

Your safety is our priority. Features like an Auto engage/disengage mechanism, independent outriggers and electric over hydraulic disc brakes with a parking brake ensure that every operation is safe and secure. 

8 - Maintenance made easy 

Keeping the Equipter 4000 in top condition is straightforward with easy access to control systems. Simplified service means more time working and less downtime. 

Original article and photo source: Equipter

By Equipter. 

Successful scaling requires streamlined operations that support both jobsite performance and long-term profitability. 

Roofing companies looking to grow often discover that expansion requires more than pursuing bigger projects or entering new regions. Scaling a roofing operation successfully demands efficient systems, equipment and processes that can support higher volumes without sacrificing workmanship or profitability. From improving jobsite efficiency to strengthening workforce performance, contractors need reliable tools and strategic planning to keep projects on schedule. That’s why Equipter works to help roofers streamline their workflows and maintain quality as they expand their reach. 

Invest in advanced, scalable equipment to drive productivity 

Upgrading to innovative tools like the Equipter 4000 empowers crews to handle debris and cleanup with unparalleled speed and safety, often reducing jobsite cleanup times by up to 80%. Standardizing modern equipment across your job sites not only boosts efficiency but also minimizes training time and maintenance headaches, laying a strong foundation for consistent growth. These investments are a differentiator when bidding for larger projects — and signal professionalism to both clients and skilled employees. 

Attract and retain top talent with the right tools 

One of the most significant roadblocks to scaling a construction company is labor shortage. Recruiting and retaining experienced roofers becomes easier when you showcase a commitment to safety and well-being. Featuring advanced equipment in your recruitment efforts demonstrates you value workers’ time and health, setting your company apart in a competitive talent market and reducing costly turnover. 

Diversify service offerings to expand your market share 

Expanding your roofing business by adding services such as siding, masonry or solar installations transforms you into the go-to provider for customers seeking comprehensive solutions. Diversification not only creates multiple revenue streams but also increases customer loyalty — making your company less vulnerable to market fluctuations in any single segment. 

Streamline multisite management with integrated software 

As you grow into multiple locations or manage concurrent projects, manual oversight becomes impossible. Implementing project management and scheduling platforms like Procore or BuilderTrend centralizes real-time tracking, facilitates seamless communication and optimizes resource allocation. Modern dispatching solutions further optimize crew utilization by automating assignments, reducing drive time and preventing scheduling conflicts. 

Leverage referrals and dynamic pricing to sustain profitable growth 

Growth demands a steady pipeline of quality leads and profitability controls. An incentive-driven referral program transforms satisfied customers into your most effective ambassadors. Simultaneously, adopting dynamic pricing methodologies ensures your bids accurately reflect real-time costs, safeguarding your margins — even as your construction company takes on more complex, large-scale projects. 

Original article and photo source: Equipter

By Emma Peterson. 

What to expect from this year’s international roofing expo.  

The International Roofing Expo (IRE) is the premier and largest expo dedicated to the roofing industry. Whether you’re a contractor or industry professional, IRE is the place to be! With countless education sessions, networking events and booths on the trade show floor, IRE offers unmatched opportunities.  

This year’s show begins on January 20, and we are already counting down the days! If you’re attending, make sure to stop by our booth to say hello to the Coffee Shops crew (booth can be found in the trade show lobby) as well as our industry friends, like Terial (booth #1665), A.C.T. Metal Deck Supply (booth #2131), Equipter (booth #4231), All Weather Insulated Panels (booth #1601) and Latinos En Roofing (booth #5461). For those still deciding whether or not to get a ticket, we sat down for an episode of Roofing Road Trips® with Brandi McElhaney, IRE show manager, and Rich Russo, IRE director, to learn why this year’s expo is a must-attend for any roofing professional!  

One of the biggest changes coming this year is the addition of a new exhibitor program! Brandi explained, “We’re very excited about our new program, IRE First Look. It's a specialized exhibitor participation program for those new to the market. So, it helps businesses new to the roofing sector, showcase their solutions through efficient, cost-effective exhibits that, while smaller than traditional booths, create a great way to get your foot in the door.” 

Additionally, this year’s show will feature an expansion of the exteriors offerings. Brandi shared, “We've doubled the size of our exteriors pavilion, which is dedicated to the exterior product categories and home improvement, windows, solar doors and siding. for 2026. We’re also partnering with SRS on a pro contractor pavilion education area that will showcase exterior products.” This dedication to building out the show’s exterior products sector comes as a response to past contractor feedback. Rick explained, “This is something that came out of one of our focus groups a couple of years ago when we asked the industry, ‘What are you looking for?’ We had some contractors come up to us and say, ‘Hey, we want to expand our roofing business, but we’re not sure how.’ So, we created the pro contractors pavilion as a space for those roofing contractors that want to expand their businesses to learn how to expand their businesses into new categories.” 

And last but not least, the IRE team has worked to make their offerings even more accessible with Spanish language support! Not only do they have their Spanish education track, but they have incorporated a tool that can translate non-Spanish offerings for Spanish-speaking professionals. Brandi explained, “We’re using Wordly. It’s a program that you basically just scan a QR code when you walk into the room and the program translates English to Spanish or vice versa. We want everyone to get the most out of the show, and this is part of making that possible.”  

Listen to the whole podcast to learn more about IRE 2026.