An Insider’s Guide to Navigating the 2026 Builders' Show

Set Your Goals

Show up with a plan to optimize your time at the show. Ask yourself: What’s your mission? For example …

• Scoping out the latest products
• Learning hot residential construction trends
• Networking and making key connections

PRO TIP: Prioritize your top goal but leave room to explore. Walk the show floor, hit education sessions, visit the IBS Store, and squeeze in networking events.

Use the IBS App

Download the IBS Mobile App in mid-January from your preferred app store. It’s your ultimate tool for navigating IBS with interactive floor plans, a complete event schedule, speaker profiles, and more.

Use the app to:

1. Plan Your Show Days: Add sessions, exhibitors and reminders to the scheduler.

2. Navigate the Show: Use the interactive maps to find the fastest routes to sessions, exhibitors, and lounges.

3. Network with Industry Pros: Connect with attendees, schedule meetings, and share insights.

PRO TIP: Add everything to your agenda, even overlapping sessions as a backup plan.

IBS Education

With 120+ sessions, there’s no shortage of learning opportunities.

Maximize them:

1. Plan Ahead: Build your schedule and note encore sessions to avoid missing your must-haves.

2. Arrive Early: Seats fill up fast! Show up 15–20 minutes ahead and use the extra time to network. Sessions can be a 25-minute trek between halls, so schedule accordingly.

3. Engage: Ask questions, join discussions, and soak up expertise.

PRO TIP: Education sessions also will be available on-demand to Expo+Education registrants through June 30, 2026, in case you missed a session or want to go back as a reminder.

Navigate the Show Floor

With 1,700+ exhibitors, six product segments, plus the Outdoor Exhibits, there’s a lot of real estate to cover on the show floor. Plan your route to see the companies and categories that matter most to you and your business.

Dress For Comfort

Three halls and tons of walking make comfy shoes mandatory. From jeans to suits, you’ll see it all.

PRO TIP: Keep your feet happy. Wear a different pair of comfortable shoes each day of the show.

Pack Show-Day Essentials

Survive and thrive with the right gear:

• Backpack/tote for guides, brochures, samples, etc.
• Notebook and pen for education highlights and connections
• 100% charged phone and portable charger
• Snacks, reusable water bottle, and lunch or snacks (food lines get long!)

PRO TIP: Humidity is a real thing in Orlando, even in February, so keep water and snacks handy to stay hydrated and energized all day.