Monday, January 5, 2026
The worldwide roofing and timber construction community is preparing for a homecoming of monumental proportions. From 24 to 27 February 2026, Cologne will transform into the epicenter of the building trades as DACH+HOLZ International returns with a bold, experiential format designed to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and the digital future. This edition isn’t just a trade show; it’s a high-octane industry festival. Organisers have unveiled a concept that combines technical rigor with “emotional trade fair experiences,” ranging from live mountain bike somersaults to an on-site industry tattoo parlor.
“The industry is positioned stronger than ever,” says Robert Schuster, Director of DACH+HOLZ International. “We are creating spaces where innovation meets emotion, celebrating the unique culture of our craft while driving the business of tomorrow.”
At the heart of the 2026 event are three specialised “Workspaces.” These aren’t just lecture halls; they are active hubs where visitors can get hands-on with the latest tech and techniques.
1. The Future Workspace (Hall 6)
Focused on the digital revolution, this area is the command center for AI, sustainability, and HR management. Expect deep dives into how artificial intelligence is streamlining roof measurements and how digital tools can solve the persistent labour shortage.
2. The Retention Roof Workspace (Hall 8)
As urban centers grapple with climate change, the roof has become a critical tool for water management. This workspace focuses on blue-green roofs, drainage solutions, and urban climate mitigation. It serves as a central meeting point for specialists in flat roof systems and sustainable urban development.
3. The Plumbing Trade Workspace (Hall 8)
Run by the renowned Würzburg Master Plumbers’ School, this “living workshop” brings restoration and modern metalworking to life. Attendees can observe live demonstrations of complex soldering, bending, and specialised plumbing techniques in an authentic, machine-sponsored environment.
The 2026 edition places a massive bet on new blood. A dedicated area in Hall 6 will feature 30 exhibiting start-ups, showcasing everything from AI-supported project management software to sustainable, bio-based insulation materials. This focus on “Young Technologies” ensures that even the most established timber firms can find fresh ideas to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
To prove that the trades are anything but boring, DACH+HOLZ 2026 is introducing high-energy lifestyle formats.
Addressing the skills gap is a core pillar of the 2026 program. The German Carpenters’ National Team will hold public training sessions, offering a rare look at the precision and endurance required for international competition.
For younger visitors, the ‘Dachdecker Dein Beruf’ (Roofing Your Profession) campaign will use Virtual Reality (VR) to transport them onto the towering spires of Cologne Cathedral, providing a safe but thrilling perspective of life on the tools.
The four-day event is packed with opportunities for cross-border collaboration:
As the industry looks toward 2026, DACH+HOLZ International in Cologne stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of the timber and roofing trades. It is where the next decade of sustainable construction will be mapped out—one joist and one shingle at a time.
Read more news on: timber industry
Get such updates through woodandpanel.us
Tags: AI in construction, carpentry training Germany, DACH+HOLZ International 2026, roofing trade fair Cologne, sustainable roof systems, timber construction industry news
Comments: