The power of community at the 2026 IRE Service Day

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

How IRE's Community Service Day gave back to the community that hosted this year's expo. 

The roofing industry is built on protecting homes and strengthening communities, and that commitment was on full display during the 17th Annual International Roofing Expo (IRE) Community Service Day. Held on Monday, January 19, 2026, the initiative brought together volunteers to revitalize Las Vegas homes and give back to local residents in need.

Participants donated their time and skills to repair homes for low-income Las Vegas residents who otherwise would not be able to complete critical exterior improvements. The effort reflects a long-standing industry tradition of service, showing that roofing professionals do far more than install systems, they help create safer, stronger communities.

The 2026 projects focused on two homeowners facing physical and financial challenges. One recipient was a recently widowed, disabled 78-year-old woman who has owned her home for 39 years but is physically and financially unable to maintain it. Volunteers also assisted a 73-year-old couple who have struggled to keep up with painting, exterior repairs and yard cleanup due to age and finances. Both households expressed gratitude for the volunteers’ willingness to help repair and maintain their homes.

Community Service Day has become a meaningful part of the expo experience, offering attendees an opportunity to arrive early, work side by side with industry peers and make an immediate impact in the host city. Each year, the IRE partners with a local nonprofit to complete critical home repairs through volunteer labor, monetary donations and sponsor support.

IRE itself is where residential and commercial roofing professionals unite to discover new products, gain expert training and build powerful connections that help grow their businesses. The success of Community Service Day is made possible through collaboration across the industry, with volunteers contributing both labor and expertise to ensure homeowners can remain safe and secure.

Sika Sarnafil has been the primary sponsor of this day for 17 years, providing $15,000 to Rebuilding Together each year. GAF donated shingles for a vital re-roofing project. Farrell Roofing donated the labor for the roof replacement. Additional sponsors include Atlas, Centimark, Western Elite and United Rentals.

For many who participate, the experience goes beyond a single day of volunteering. It restores pride for homeowners, reinforces the industry’s culture of service and reminds everyone involved why roofing matters so deeply, not just as a trade but as a way to protect lives.

Learn more about Community Service Day and future events by visiting the official International Roofing Expo.