The roofing industry celebrated getting back together as a whole at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) after what seemed like an eternity of holding virtual events and expos for the past year.

“Being a part the International Roofing Expo each year is very important to our business and this year is no different. This show allows us to connect in-person with our customers and build new relationships,” said Dan Tinker, president and CEO of SRS Distribution.

Anticipation had been building to resume in-person interactions ever since the pandemic took hold, with IRE coordinators saying there's been a demand for the traditional expo experience in an industry that was deemed essential during the pandemic.

“Momentum is key,” said Shelby Snelson, IRE show manager with Informa Markets. “What we’re hearing across the industry is that there’s a pent-up demand to get out in front of each other in-person.”

Along with connecting in person at the event, held Aug. 10-12 in Las Vegas, attendees took to social media to celebrate the occasion. Whether it was showing off impressive booths, taking selfies with colleagues, or simply encouraging others to stop by and say hi, the roofing industry expressed its appreciation for seeing each other face to face — and gave those who couldn't attend a sneak peek at what to expect at the 2022 IRE in New Orleans this February.