A tough economy often means that R & D dollars are harder to wring out of the budget. However, there are still innovations to be found at the roofing industry trade shows, including the International Roofing Expo (IRE), held this February in New Orleans.

The late fall and winter mark the season when the roofing and construction worlds are introduced to all manners of new materials, systems, accessories and equipment. The editors of Roofing Contractor like to follow up by sharing some of the items with which we have been most impressed.

New Year’s celebrations are always closely followed by the tradeshow season in the construction and roofing industry. It is that time of year when the vagaries of winter weather slow or stop most of the productive work in our business so contractors can devote some attention to new products and trends. Most manufacturers of building and roofing products and equipment take this opportunity to announce and show their new offerings during the winter tradeshows.

Manufacturers often launch their new products at the major industry trade shows early in the year, and 2007 was no exception.