By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Experiencing the craftsmanship, durability and history of slate roofing firsthand across the United Kingdom. 

To truly understand the beauty, durability and craftsmanship of roofing and especially slate roofing, you have to experience it firsthand. For me, that is exactly what happened when RoofersCoffeeShop® joined the National Slate Association (NSA) and the Slate Roofing Contractors Association (SRCA) for their recent educational tour through the United Kingdom focused on slate roofing, history and best practices. 

Alongside Megan Ellsworth, multimedia director for The Coffee Shops™, I had the incredible opportunity to travel with contractors, association leaders and slate professionals to experience the rich history and extraordinary performance of natural slate roofing firsthand. From visiting historic installations and award-winning projects to learning directly from industry experts, one message became very clear to me throughout the trip: Slate remains one of the most durable, sustainable and high-performing roofing materials available today. 

Throughout the journey, RoofersCoffeeShop worked closely with NSA and SRCA to document and share the experience in real time through social media and online coverage, helping bring the story of UK slate roofing to contractors and roofing professionals back home. From centuries-old slate roofs still protecting structures today to hands-on learning about quarrying, installation and craftsmanship, I was reminded again and again why slate continues to stand the test of time. 

After arriving in London and getting settled in, one of the first truly memorable experiences of the tour was the opportunity to visit the rooftop of the historic Admiralty Arch. This exceptional rooftop tour would not have been possible without the support and coordination of National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and EWN Leadwork Specialists. Standing atop one of London’s most iconic landmarks offered an incredible perspective on both historic roofing craftsmanship and modern restoration efforts. 

Located at the western end of The Mall near Trafalgar Square, Admiralty Arch serves as the ceremonial gateway toward Buckingham Palace and has long stood as one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Known for its impressive Edwardian architecture, intricate stonework and ceremonial significance during royal events and parades, the structure carries both architectural and cultural importance.

Today, the building is being thoughtfully transformed into a luxury hotel and private residences while preserving its remarkable historic character. Being able to tour the rooftop and better understand the restoration work taking place gave me a unique appreciation for the specialized craftsmanship required to preserve historic structures while adapting them for future generations. For roofing professionals, it was an extraordinary opportunity to see how restoration, waterproofing and historical preservation come together on one of the United Kingdom’s most significant buildings. 

The educational opportunities continued throughout the tour with another exceptional experience, visiting the quarry and production facilities at Burlington Stone in Northern England.  Seeing natural slate extracted directly from the quarry and following the process through preparation for roofing applications gave me an entirely new appreciation for the craftsmanship, engineering and precision behind premium slate systems. From the careful quarrying methods to the grading, splitting and preparation of slate for roofing, the visit offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at how one of the industry’s most respected roofing materials begins its journey. Watching slate move from the mountainside to a finished roofing product was not only educational but truly exceptional. It reinforced for me the incredible quality control, natural performance characteristics and legacy behind slate roofing. 

Equally impressive was seeing the incredible longevity and resilience of slate roofs across the UK. Many of the buildings we visited showcased roofing systems that have performed for generations, proving slate’s unmatched durability and long-term value. Natural slate’s low water absorption, resistance to harsh weather and remarkable life expectancy continue to make it a premium roofing choice around the world. 

The trip also showcased the artistry behind slate roofing. The precision, craftsmanship and technical expertise required to install and maintain slate systems were on full display throughout the experience. For me, it served as an important reminder of how specialized roofing trades preserve both performance and architectural history while creating roofs designed to last for decades, and often centuries. 

This experience was truly amazing. Being able to see the history, craftsmanship and long-term performance of slate up close was incredibly educational. I was honoured that RoofersCoffeeShop could help share the story through social media and online coverage, helping show the roofing industry why slate continues to be one of the highest-performing roofing systems available. 

The trip also underscored the importance of industry collaboration and ongoing education. By joining NSA and SRCA abroad, I was reminded how valuable it is when associations, contractors and manufacturers come together to share best practices, preserve craftsmanship and continue advancing roofing excellence. 

To learn more about the UK slate tour and upcoming slate initiatives, visit the National Slate Association and explore the NSA and SRCA directories on RoofersCoffeeShop.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

RoofersCoffeeShop.uk joined roofing professionals from across the U.K. to celebrate award-winning craftsmanship, innovation and community.

The U.K. roofing industry came together in spectacular fashion at the 2026 U.K. Roofing Awards, recognizing the projects, companies and individuals who continue to raise the bar for excellence across roofing and cladding. Hosted by National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), the annual event welcomed more than 900 industry professionals to celebrate outstanding workmanship, safety and innovation from across the United Kingdom. 

This year’s celebration also highlighted the strong international relationships within roofing, as representatives from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), National Slate Association (NSA) and Slate Roofing Contractors Association (SRCA) travelled from the United States to attend the event and celebrate alongside U.K. roofing professionals. Their presence underscored the global respect for the craftsmanship, technical expertise and industry leadership recognized through the U.K. Roofing Awards. 

From historic restoration projects and complex waterproofing systems to cutting-edge solar installations and community leadership, this year’s awards showcased the incredible breadth of talent across the roofing sector. RoofersCoffeeShop.uk was proud to be in the audience celebrating all the competitors, finalists and winners who demonstrate the professionalism and craftsmanship that define the U.K. roofing industry. 

One of the most celebrated recognitions of the evening was Project of the Year, awarded to Staick House by Rowlands Roofing, a project that also earned top honours in the Heritage Roofing category. The Industry Choice Award, voted on by the sector, went to Little Eversden, Cambridgeshire, completed by Roof Brothers Ltd working with CUPA PIZARRAS S.A., reflecting strong industry support for exceptional craftsmanship. 

Winners represented excellence across every roofing discipline. Major category winners included One Leadenhall by Lindner Prater Ltd for Bituminous Hot Applied Liquid Waterproofing, The Library, Murray Edwards College by Millane Contract Services Ltd for Cold Applied Liquid Waterproofing and Chester Zoo by Safeseal Roofing Ltd for Green Roofing. In metal roofing, Rockmount by Install Zinc Ltd took top honours in Fully Supported Metal while Robin House by Aim Developments Ltd working with Sika Ltd won the Single Ply Roofing category. Solar innovation was also recognized with St Nicholas Leisure Centre by Stace Roofing Ltd receiving the Solar award. 

The evening also celebrated the people who make roofing stronger. Sean Lynden of Blackpool Industrial Roofing was recognized with the Local Hero Award for going above and beyond in his community. Edward Radley of Marksman Roofing & Cladding earned the Individual Health & Safety Award and Corey Dowell of Progressive Systems Ltd was named Young Roofer of the Year, highlighting the next generation of roofing talent. 

At RoofersCoffeeShop.uk, we are proud to share the stories behind these award-winning projects and celebrate the contractors, manufacturers and teams that continue to elevate roofing excellence. The U.K. Roofing Awards are a powerful reminder that roofing is built on craftsmanship, innovation and people who care deeply about the work they do every day. 

To see the full list of 2026 U.K. Roofing Award winners and learn more about the incredible projects recognized this year, visit NFRC U.K. Roofing Awards Winners 2026 page at www.nfrc.co.uk/events/uk-roofing-awards/winners-2026.html. Interviews are also available from award winners on the RoofersCoffeeShop YouTube channel. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Roofers from across the country gathered to celebrate two decades of craftsmanship at the 2025 SRCA Conference in Grove City. 

The Slate Roofing Contractors Association (SRCA) hosted its 20th anniversary conference from September 26-28 at Joseph Jenkins Inc., bringing together some of the finest slate roofers, suppliers and educators in the country for a weekend focused on craftsmanship, community and industry evolution, with participation and support from organizations such as the National Slate Association (NSA). 

The event combined hands-on training, technical seminars and social networking opportunities into a packed agenda that reflected the SRCA’s mission to preserve and advance the art of slate roofing. From the opening reception Thursday night to Saturday’s fundraising auction, every moment aimed to inspire and elevate the trade for those in attendance. 

Before the official kickoff, pre-conference training sessions gave attendees opportunities to earn certifications in slate installation and repair. These interactive courses allowed contractors to gain experience in real-world techniques under expert guidance. 

In the seminars, topics ranged from the traditional to the technical. Attendees got an up-close look at soldering methods, woven slate valleys and European flashing systems. Sessions also touched on legal and business concerns like anti-trust laws and insurance procedures, crucial insights for contractors navigating today’s regulatory landscape. 

Sponsors and exhibitors such as John Stortz and Son Inc., Slator LLC, Slate Valley Supply and Penn Slate Inc. were on hand to showcase tools, materials and innovations, adding a commercial edge to the educational atmosphere. 

The SRCA also used the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to craftsmanship and mentorship. A spirited auction on Saturday evening raised funds for training initiatives and future events, ensuring the association’s work continues into the next generation. 

Learn more about how the SRCA and NSA are working together to strengthen the slate roofing industry for the decades ahead!

By National Slate Association. 

Preserving the craftsmanship and durability of this centuries-old craft in a convenience-driven world.  

Slate roofing has a long history that spans centuries of use. In North America, its legacy can be traced all the way back to early quarries opened in the East in the early 1800s. One of the earlier reports of slate used on a roof comes from when Colonel Alonson Allen, who ran the Fair Haven quarry in Vermont, installed a slate roof on a farm. There was a lot of doubt about using a rock for a roof, but Colonel Alonson roof stood strong. Fastforward to the 1900s and slate roofers were creating high-quality roofs out of stone that combined artistry with durability.  

But in recent years, this beautiful roofing material has become less popular. A member of the National Slate Association shared, “While walking through Newtown, Pennsylvania, I spotted a historic church with Chapman slate from Northampton County, Pennsylvania. The textured stone, clipped cuts and intricate pattern caught my eye – a level of craftsmanship rarely seen today. It made me wonder: how many roofs like this are still being installed? And when the slate finally reaches the end of its service life, will the church have the resources to replace it – or will they turn to synthetic alternatives?” 

Why are there fewer slate roofs every year? 

So why has what that NSA member saw become so rare, why are we seeing fewer slate roofs with each passing year? The answer isn’t simple, but it comes down to cost, convenience and changing priorities in the construction world. 

The decline in slate roofs isn’t just about cost or trends, it’s history catching up. Slate dominated U.S. roofing from roughly 1880 to 1910, covering everything from barns to government buildings. But as asphalt shingles gained popularity in the early 20th century, new slate installations slowed dramatically. 

Now, more than a century later, many of those original roofs – even with slate’s 75–125 year lifespan – are finally wearing out. Instead of being replaced with slate, most are swapped for asphalt, metal or synthetics, accelerating the drop in slate roofs nationwide. 

Why slate is fading 

1. The high cost of beauty: Natural slate is expensive. Quarrying, splitting, transporting and installing it requires skill – and specialized labor is costly. Many homeowners and builders simply can’t justify the investment. 
2. Not enough skilled labor: Installing slate is a craft. Few roofers today have the training or experience to do it properly. As older experts retire and apprenticeships decline, homeowners often turn to conventional materials for repairs or replacement. 
3. Weight matters: Slate is heavy – 800–2,000+ pounds per 100 sq. ft., versus ~200–300 pounds for asphalt. Roofs must be engineered or reinforced to handle it. Modern homes, framed for lighter materials, can’t always support slate without upgrades. 
4. Convenience over longevity: Homeowners increasingly favor low-maintenance, quick solutions. Slate requires specialist care and occasional attention – a mindset many aren’t willing to adopt. Its classic look is sometimes labeled “old-fashioned,” losing appeal in contemporary design. 
5. Suburban sprawl and mass production: Most new homes today are built fast and cheap. Developers favor materials that are quick to install and look good enough to sell. Slate doesn’t fit into that formula, which is why you rarely see it in new subdivisions. It’s a premium product in a value-driven market. 

Preserve craftsmanship. Choose slate. 

Slate roofing is timeless, durable and steeped in history. Its decline isn’t due to failure – it’s a reflection of cost, labor shortages, convenience and evolving construction priorities. For those who value craftsmanship, authenticity and longevity, slate remains the gold standard. Every roof that still bears it is a reminder of an era when buildings were made to last. 

Invest in slate for your next project or restoration. Support skilled slaters, ensure roofs that last a century or more and preserve the architectural heritage of our communities. Don’t let history fade – choose slate. 

Original article and photo source: National Slate Association

By National Slate Association. 

Your guide to selling reclaimed slate and saving money on disposal fees. 

When you’re done with a replacement roof project, what should you do with the remaining pile of slate tiles that are still in good condition? Save on costly disposal fees and swap the pieces for money, of course! When you are looking to sell your salvaged roofing slate, it’s important to be prepared with the necessary information to make the process smooth for you and your buyer. We at the National Slate Association created this guide to help you gather the information you need to recycle your salvaged slate and make some cash along the way.  

1 - Evaluate what you have 

Before anything else, assess your slate. Buying salvaged roofing slate is like buying a used car: There’s so many different types, sizes, thicknesses, shapes, etc., and there’s also many factors to evaluate for each piece of slate: 

• Size and type: What is the size(s) of the slates? 24×12? 12×6? A common comment is, “Well, it looks like they’re maybe 10 inches wide and maybe 15 inches long.” 
  • “Maybe” is not very helpful. Exact measurements are necessary. 
  • If the slates are “standard thickness,” meaning 3/16″ to 1/4″ thick, there will be about 50 per foot of stack. If the slates are thicker than that, the buyer needs to know that too. 
  • What type of slate is it? One of the many colors and weathering types available in the Vermont/New York district? Chapman? Bangor? Buckingham? Unless you’re an expert in slate roofing, you probably won’t be able to identify the type, which means you can either deliver samples to the buyer or send them photos by email or text. No serious buyer will commit to buying slates without knowing what type they are. 
• Condition: What is the condition of the slates? Are they good and hard? When tapped with a knuckle or hammer, do they emit a clear, porcelain-like ring? Are they flaking and falling apart? Do they have paint on them? Roof cement? Rust stains? Are there holes in the face (the part of the slate that shows on the roof)? If the slates have any foreign material or holes on the face, they are rejects and of no value. These factors will not only directly affect the value of the slate but also determine if they are worthy of reuse or not. 
• Quantity: How many do you have? If you have 50 or 100, it’ll prove difficult trying to sell the slates to a company that buys them for resale unless they are very special slates. Most companies want lots of at least 500 and preferably thousands if they can get them. The quantity has to be large enough that a buyer can do something with them other than paint on them, like repair or install roofs. An ad on Craigslist is perhaps the easiest way to go down the arts and crafts route. 
• Location: Where are the slates? Are they still on the roof? Are they on the ground? Are they in pallets on your truck, ready to deliver? Do they have to be picked up? Are they hundreds of miles away, or right around the corner? The potential buyer will take all of this information into consideration. 
• Age and history (if known): Original quarry info, age or building provenance can add value for historic restorers. 
• Shape: What is the shape of the slates? Are all the corners square? Is one end rounded? Are two corners cut off at an angle? Specialty shaped slate usually has a significantly reduced value, and buyers tend to avoid purchasing them altogether.  This is due to the fact that there are simply too many custom shapes for every size and color of slate available. 

2 - Set realistic expectations 

Prices can be all over the place for salvaged slate depending on the aforementioned factors and more. If the buyer has to take them off a roof, their labor, transport and insurance costs will be high, and they will have paid handsomely for them before they have given you a penny. So, if the slates have to be removed by the buyer, don’t expect to get paid much. Size, shape, condition, type, location and quantity all affect the price as well. Odd sized, odd shaped slates in small quantities are usually worth the least. The only time you’re going to make money on small lots of odd shaped slates is if someone needs those exact slates for roof repairs, or if someone wants to use them for arts and crafts. 

Reclaimed slate doesn’t sell for the same price as new slate, but it’s still valuable — often $1–$3 per piece, depending on size, thickness and condition. Large matching lots in good shape are the most attractive for a potential buyer. 

3 - Prepare the slate for sale 

• Sort by size and condition. 
• Remove nails and clean dirt/debris — This is very important as it will minimize damage during transport! 
• Stack or palletize it neatly. Make sure you have the slates stacked on edge during storage. Don’t pile them up flat like a stack of dishes. The weight bearing down on the stack will damage the lower slates. Place them on edge on boards or lath, or in pallets. 

Not heeding these steps will reduce the total value of the slate. 

4 - Find buyers 

Here are your best options: 

A - Reclamation yards / architectural salvage companies 

• Companies that specialize in reclaimed materials (like slate, brick, wood) will often buy them directly. 
• Some even offer pickup if the quantity is high enough. 
• See the NSA membership list for potential companies that purchase salvaged roofing slate closest to you. 

B - Online marketplaces 

• Facebook Marketplace – Local contractors and homeowners often search here. 
• Craigslist – Popular for local pickup. 
• eBay – Best for unique types or smaller lots. 
• RoofersCoffeeShop Classifieds – Niche market. 

C - Roofing companies & contractors 

• Contact local slate roofing contractors — they may buy directly, especially if they do repairs and restorations. 

5 - Offer delivery (if possible) 

Offering to deliver the slate — especially if it’s already palletized — will command the highest return on the slate. Use a flatbed, pickup truck or coordinate freight if you’re selling long-distance. 

Pro tip 

Not only is the reclaimed slate potentially worth money to a buyer; it will also save you on costly disposal fees!  Standard-thickness roofing slate tends to weigh between 700 to 1,000 lbs. per square, so every two to three squares would literally save a TON in disposal fee.  All the more reason to cash in on them! 

With the above information, you will have the best opportunity to sell your slates. Good luck! 

Original article and image source: National Slate Association

This landmark event marked a significant milestone in advancing the standard of excellence in slate roofing nationwide.

Four Wagner Roofing employees — Obed Tejada Hernandez, Gabino Perez Guentes, Luis Montoya Rivas and Juan Santana Ortiz — earned national recognition as the country’s first NRCA PROCertified Slate System Installers. Wagner Roofing proudly hosted this first-ever Slate ProCertification exam offering, which was administered by the NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association).

The NRCA Slate Systems Installer PROCertification is a distinguished credential that recognizes the skill, knowledge and professionalism of experienced slate roofing installers. To earn certification, candidates must meet strict eligibility requirements and pass a rigorous evaluation process, including a comprehensive verbal exam and a hands-on, six-hour installation assessment judged live by independent ProCertification Qualified Assessors.

This landmark event marked a significant milestone in advancing the standard of excellence in slate roofing nationwide. The curriculum and standards for the Slate ProCertification program were collaboratively developed by the NRCA, the Slate Roofing Contractors Association (SRCA) and the National Slate Association (NSA), ensuring the highest level of industry-wide integrity and expertise.

Wagner Roofing is proud to celebrate its team’s achievement and to have supported this pioneering event, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to workforce development, craftsmanship and leadership in traditional roofing systems.

By Jesse Sanchez.

Discover the lesser-known European tools transforming the U.S. roofing industry.

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sat down with John Chan of the National Slate Association (NSA) to discuss the upcoming NSA Conference. While the event promises an exploration into Charleston’s architectural history, one of the most intriguing topics set to be explored is the evolution of roofing tools — especially those uncommon in the U.S. yet widely used in Europe.

"There’s all kinds of tools that are used in Europe that are relatively unknown here, so Tom’s going to go over some of that," John explains. Among those experts is Tom Stortz, who will be showcasing a collection of European roofing tools that remain relatively unknown stateside. These tools, while widely used abroad, offer unique benefits for precision work in slate and sheet metal roofing.

John shares an anecdote that signifies the rarity of these tools in the U.S. “I remember, long, long time ago, I bought this tool from Tom’s dad, John Stortz and he said, ‘Hey, John, I got to ask you a question... What do you use that tool for?’” John recalls. “I said, ‘You sell the tool, and you don’t know what it’s used for?’” The tool in question was designed for opening standing seam panels without damaging them — a game-changer for repairs. “You can use other tools, but if you use other tools to open up your standing seam panel, a lot of times you’ll damage it.”

Beyond specialized seam openers, attendees can expect to learn about pleated valleys, an innovative technique used in European roofing. “We just did a couple courthouses where we did pleated valleys, which you basically fold the valley in such a way that it goes around... and you don’t have to cut or solder anything. It’s like an accordion. When it gets hot, it expands, when it gets cold, it shrinks and it does all this without tearing any solder joints apart,” he explains.

For roofers looking to elevate their craftsmanship, the NSA Conference is an opportunity to explore new methodologies and gain insights from industry veterans. John stating, “Tom’s going to explain a lot of different tools that aren’t common here in the U.S. that you can do all kinds of really interesting things with.”

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about these tools and techniques!

By Emma Peterson.

Don’t miss industry expert Trent Cotney’s education sessions!

Are you ready for the 2025 International Roofing Expo (IRE)? Kicking off on February 19, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas, this is the biggest trade event for the construction and maintenance industry in North America. There is so much to do there, from exploring the hundreds of exhibitor booths on the trade floor to attending in-depth education sessions from leaders in all parts of the industry.

One such leader that will be there is Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. If you haven’t heard of Trent, he is a leading construction lawyer and a staunch advocate for the construction industry local, state and national governments. He serves as the general counsel for a variety of leading associations and organizations, including but not limited to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (FRSA), National Slate Association (NSA) and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA).  

At this year’s IRE, Trent will be teaching and participating in multiple education sessions. We’ve made you a quick guide to make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to learn from Trent!  

Deep dive: State of the industry 2025

Kicking off the show on Wednesday, February 19 at 8:15 a.m. (ending at 9:15 a.m.), Trent will be a part of the state of the industry panel. He will share his insights on the challenges the workforce faces, whether that be production efficiency or cost control. Attendees of this session can expect to leave with better insight into the upcoming year’s predicted market performance, emerging trends, innovations and more!  

NRCA 2025 safety leadership workshop

Also on February 19, Trent will be one of the speakers at the NRCA’s safety workshop. This is a one-day workshop (running from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.) that is aimed at professionals in leadership positions, such as owners, project managers and supervisors. This is an opportunity for them to enhance their knowledge on safety and health topics. There are a variety of speakers that will be stopping by this workshop to talk about everything from risk management and safety culture to insurance and legal information. As one of the speakers, Trent will be focusing on sharing federal and regional perspectives on recent regulatory changes in the roofing industry.

Legal issues with sub labor

Then, on Friday, February 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Trent will be presenting his own educational session. He will focus on the topic of subcontractor labor and the subsequent legal issues that might arise when working with subs. The session will cover topics like the new independent contractor rule, quality control, insurance, OSHA inspections and more. Overall, attendees will learn how to work with subcontractor labor in a way the mitigates and manages risk.  

And, if you are looking for even more opportunities to learn from industry experts like Trent, make sure to check out the National Women In Roofing (NWIR)’s annual conference (NWIR Days), happening in San Antonio right before IRE! A little bird told us that Trent’s fellow attorney at Adams and Reese, Ashlee Poplin, will be speaking there!  

You can register for the 2025 IRE online and you can also register for NWIR Days 2025 online!

By Dani Sheehan. 

Surrounded by buildings rich in history and craft, NSA 2024 Conference attendees were reminded that slate roofing is not just about durability – it's about preserving a skill that connects us to our architectural past. 

The National Slate Association (NSA) 2024 Conference took place October 24 – 27, in Charleston, South Carolina – the perfect location for a gathering of roofing professionals passionate about heritage and preservation. Known for its historic architecture and Southern charm, Charleston provided an inspiring history with beautiful examples of the craft and evolving standards of slate roofing. Alex Tolle, R-Club coordinator for The Coffee Shops, attended the conference this year and shared key insights that highlight the durability and modern challenges of slate roofing. 

Charleston’s historical perspective 

The conference began with a presentation by John Chan of the Durable Slate Company, who talked about Charleston’s vibrant roofing history. As Alex recounted, the early American colonies relied on wood shingles, but a devastating fire in 1861 led to a shift toward more fire-resistant materials like slate, clay and metal. Prone to hurricanes and heavy rain, the climate also necessitates more durable materials, and Charleston’s resilience and adaptability is evident in its roofing history. Since 2014, the Board of Architectural Review has required the repair or replacement of historic roofs to preserve the visual experience of the city. 

The value of slate roofing today 

Slate roofing is recognized not only for its beauty but also for its longevity. Jared Ribble’s session on PROCertification® programs really highlighted the importance of quality training in order to preserve this centuries-old trade. With fewer qualified slate roofers in today’s market, certification ensures that the skill is not lost and that slate roofs will maintain the longevity they boast. Alex shared a surprising statistic from this presentation, saying, “Jared noted that 92% of ProCertified contractors stay with the companies that invested in their training, which improves both the craftsmanship and quality in their company as well as the rest of the industry.”  

Slate does come with its challenges. It’s more costly than many other roofing materials and with multiple slate quarries closing, it has made it less accessible. However, the investment often pays off in the long run. Slate roofs can last over a century if installed and maintained correctly. In fact, Alex learned that the St. Asaph Cathedral in Northern Wales had a slate roof that lasted 473 years before they had to remove and replace it. Graeme Millar, president of the International Federation for the Roofing Trade (IFD), flew in from Scotland to discuss slate roofs in Europe. Not only does slate last longer than most roofing materials, but when it comes time to replace the original roof, up to 50% of the slate can be reused and mixed in with new tiles.  

Historic tours and trade education 

Conference attendees also had the chance to explore Charleston’s architectural history firsthand. They toured notable historic homes, including the Nathaniel Russell House and Aiken-Rhett House, both of which stand as testament to the city’s rich heritage. At the Nathaniel Russell House, Alex told us, “It’s a really important neoclassical home in American history, and has had a lot of restoration over the years to bring it back to its original beauty. Throughout the tour, we learned a lot about how merchant elites lived in the late colonial period and the incredible craft involved in adorning these extravagant homes while also acknowledging the enslaved men and women who made this type of lifestyle possible.”  

Additionally, a visit to the American College of Building Arts highlighted Charleston’s dedication to teaching hands-on historic preservation and other trades like stone carving and ironwork. Jason Lucas from Clemson University shared more about the emerging roofing programs and their goals to improve the standards of the trade through education. 

The NSA 2024 Conference in Charleston this year served to inspire, educate and connect professionals in slate roofing. The educational sessions and tours highlighted both the lasting value of slate and the need for a new generation of roofers trained in this skillful, sustainable trade. By fostering a community dedicated to maintaining high standards, NSA is helping to ensure that slate roofing remains a respected and viable option for homeowners and historical preservationists alike. 

By Adams and Reese, LLP. 

Trent Cotney is a leader in the roofing world not only for his legal expertise, but also for his dedication to helping people. 

Trent Cotney, who is Adams and Reese Construction Team’s co-leader and partner was just honored by Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) with an induction into their Hall of Fame. Trent, who got his B.S. and J.D. from Vanderbilt University, is a board-certified construction lawyer who focuses his practice on all construction litigation and arbitration. His nearly 25 years of work have made him an expert in things such as OSHA defense, lien law, bond law, bid protests and construction document review and drafting. He is one of the leading attorneys in his field of practice and has published more than 1,000 articles in 100 different local, regional and national publications.  

Trent’s induction to WSRCA’s Hall of Fame was announced during a special ceremony held this week at the 2024 Western Roofing Expo. “Western States really means a lot to me,” said Trent. “From the first time I started coming to these expos many years ago I’ve been welcomed. And everyone here... we fight for the industry, and that’s what is important to me.” 

In addition to his work through Adams and Reese, Trent serves as WSRCA General Counsel, and as GC for more than a dozen trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association, Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association, National Slate Association, Roofing Technology Think Tank and several other industry associations. 

WSRCA officials said awarding Trent with the group’s highest honor for his legal and strategic support over the years was a “no-brainer.” They added that he was even more deserving for his willingness to help, regardless of circumstances and staunch commitment to protect the roofing industry wherever possible. Outgoing WSRCA President Mike Wakerling compared Trent’s attitude to that of a “mama bear” protecting its cubs with unparalleled strength. “Anyone involved with Western States can tell you how important his contributions have been to our success,” Mike said. “It’s also a rare thing in life to meet an individual that not only makes a difference on a professional level, but on a personal level too. He really cares about us.” 

At Adams and Reese, Trent is a leading member of one of the largest construction practices in the country with a roster of more than 90 attorneys serving the construction industry. Working out of the Tampa, Florida office, Trent represents construction and infrastructure clients, including GCs, subcontractors, suppliers, manufacturers, architects, engineers, roofers, developers and other professionals. He is a board-certified construction lawyer licensed in eight states and Washington, DC. Trent is also an EU arbitrator for construction-related disputes. He is experienced in construction litigation and arbitration, including OSHA defense, lien law, bond law, bid protests and construction document review and drafting. 

Trent is ranked among the top construction attorneys in Florida by Chambers USA and ranked by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers in Florida, Texas, Mid-South and Illinois. 

Original article and photo source: Adams and Reese, LLP