International Roofing Expo organizers are hoping there’s something in the air at next year’s show: drones.

The unmanned aerial vehicles are growing in popularity among roofing contractors and IRE officials are encouraging drone makers to exhibit at the 2018 show, which is scheduled for Feb. 6-8, 2018, in New Orleans.

“The ability to easily inspect and collect information has made UAVs, commonly known as drones, very in demand among our attendees,” said Tracy Garcia, the expo’s show director. "We are encouraging any company who sells creative and innovative products, designs, concepts, tools and services for this booming sector to exhibit at the 2018 IRE.”

Approximately 11,000 are expected to attend the 2018 show.

“With the increase in popularity of UAVs in the roofing industry, exhibiting at the International Roofing Expo makes good business sense,” said Reid Ribble, CEO of the National Roofing Contractors Association, the show’s official sponsor. “Manufacturers will be able to introduce their products, build their brand and increase market share to a new target market of qualified roofing professionals.”

Details on the show are at www.TheRoofingExpo.com or (800) 684.5761.