By Jesse Sanchez. 

This roofing contractor shares how simple social media posts led to international recognition and business growth. 

For roofing contractors, reputation is often built through one project at a time. Increasingly, however, that reputation is shaped not only by the finished roof, but by how the work is documented and shared. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Lewis Miller, director of Compass Roofing Limited in Edinburgh, Scotland, shared how a straightforward decision to post jobsite videos featuring materials from brands like READYSLATE® ultimately expanded his company’s reach far beyond its local market. 

What began as a simple effort to capture day-to-day slate work gradually gained traction. Lewis said the move into social media was not part of a formal strategy, but a natural extension of the work itself. He shared, “So basically we just started getting into the social media side of things, like taking videos of the work that we were doing, it was fitting the slates, stripping the slates, cutting the slates.” Over time, that consistency began to pay off. “I think maybe one or two videos just took off from there.” 

That growing visibility led to an unexpected opportunity. After being noticed by a manufacturer’s social media team, Compass Roofing was encouraged to enter an international competition showcasing slate craftsmanship. The submission process was simple, centered on a short video highlighting detailed work, but the outcome proved meaningful. “Winning has certainly helped our business,” Lewis said, noting that the recognition continued to generate exposure ell beyond the initial announcement. 

The experience also clarified what resonates with audiences. Rather than relying on polished production or complex editing, Lewis found that straightforward documentation of skilled work was more effective. “People just like seeing good work done well,” he said. “Try and keep it as simple and straightforward because you want to keep people engaged.” 

As competition intensifies across the industry, that approach offers a practical model. By consistently capturing and sharing authentic jobsite work, contractors can extend their visibility, reinforce credibility and create new pathways for growth, without adding complexity to their process. 

Listen to the entire podcast to learn more about how contractors can use social media to grow their business!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how a panelized slate system is removing weight barriers and simplifying installation for asphalt-to-slate replacements. 

For decades, real slate has been recognized as a premium roofing material known for its strength, longevity and craftsmanship, qualities that have traditionally placed it in a specialized category within residential re-roofing. At the International Roofing Expo (IRE), READYSLATE® leaned into that perception by showcasing a system engineered to bring those same benefits to a broader range of residential projects. Speaking from The Coffee Shops™ sound stage sponsored by SRS Distribution, Morgan Cathey, sales director for Vermont Slate Company, part of Cupa Group explained the structural reality behind that long-held distinction. Traditional slate systems often require additional engineering to support their weight, which has historically limited their use on homes currently roofed with asphalt shingles. 

“Our product is really the only panelized real slate product on the market that fits in the lightweight category,” Morgan said. “So, we're able to tear shingles off and put real slate back on the roof.” That distinction is central to the company’s message at IRE, because by fitting within the lightweight category, the system is positioned as a direct replacement option rather than a project that requires structural redesign, which in turn expands the number of homes where real slate can realistically be considered during a standard re-roof. 

The product’s installation method is designed to reinforce that accessibility. “It is panelized. It looks a lot like a shingle. It's designed to be compatible with a lot of shingle accessories that are on the market today,” Morgan said, noting that while panels are hand nailed, the format mirrors familiar shingle layouts and aligns with the workflows contractors already use. As a result, crews can approach the product with confidence, reducing the learning curve and lowering hesitation about introducing real slate into their proposals. 

The latest version further reflects that contractor-focused approach, as installer feedback led the company to reduce the panel from six pieces of slate to four, improving handling and enabling single-person placement while maintaining a Class 4 impact rating and a Class 8 fire rating. Framed around its first-quarter focus on resilience baked into slate installation, applied to protect what matters most, the system is presented not simply as a lighter slate option, but as a practical way to deliver long-term durability without adding structural complexity.  

Learn more about how READYSLATE® is expanding the reach of real slate by combining lightweight performance, contractor-driven design improvements and built-in resilience to protect what matters most during residential re-roofing!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Installers pushed for shorter panels, cleaner backers and tougher packaging and READYSLATE’s redesign shows what happens when a manufacturer truly listens to the roof. 

As READYSLATE® expands in the U.S. market, CUPA Pizarras has reshaped its lightweight slate panel system around one core principle: listen to installers who work with it every day. In this episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast, Product Manager Pablo González Rodriguez detailed how contractor feedback led directly to the latest round of design updates. 

Pablo shared, “So, contractors loved the product, loved the concept from the beginning because it gave them access to real slate without the concerns of weight limitations first, but also the complexity of finding a crew who has the knowledge on the slate installations. But there were things that couldn't be better.” 

Those things showed up on roofs and trade show floors, where crews were candid about what worked and what needed to change. He noted, “So there were some drawbacks that they share with us in the trade shows or in the installs when we go and visit them or all the exchange we have with them. Mainly it was the length of the panel. So it was way too long. It's not long when you are standing on the ground.” 

Contractors also flagged the original bitumen base and packaging. “There were also some complaints on the bitumen base because it causes stains and especially in hot days, left residues, it touches something. And also the packaging, the cardboard packaging we used to have didn't hold up,” he said. “Especially on wet conditions on the job site. So, those were the main things that needed to be addressed by us.” 

The redesign kept the same natural slate and thickness but rethought how it is delivered. Pablo said, “Yeah, it's a natural slate, it's heavy, we're still having the same slate, same thickness, we are not varying that, but we reduce the size of the panel. So that helps us to have a shorter panel, we move from six slates to four slates and that itself already is 30% shorter and it's perfect size to move around and to handle yourself, you don't need somebody to hold it, so you can name it, it's way easier.”  

Listen to the podcast to learn more about how contractor feedback shaped READYSLATE’s lighter, easier-to-handle design!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

This lightweight slate system helped an Illinois contractor deliver luxury aesthetics while meeting structural limits and HOA rules. 

When an Illinois homeowner set out to install a natural slate roof, the goal was clear, but the path forward was not. Traditional slate offered the timeless character they wanted, but the home’s structure could not support the weight of the materials and neighborhood HOA restrictions narrowed the list of acceptable alternatives. The solution ultimately came through READYSLATE®, a real slate roofing system that blends authentic materials with a more accessible installation profile. 

The project was completed by Conrad Roofing of Illinois after the company was introduced to READYSLATE through its distributor QXO. For the contractor, the opportunity highlighted their ability to meet a growing need in residential roofing: delivering premium aesthetics while navigating structural limitations and cost realities that increasingly shape project decisions. 

Wade Tutt, CEO of Conrad Roofing, said the system immediately stood out because it offered an impressive blend of authentic slate aesthetics with a more streamlined, install-friendly system, giving contractors a way to deliver luxury roofing without the complexity of a traditional slate installation. 

That balance proved essential to the success of this project. The homeowners wanted the look and longevity associated with natural slate but needed a solution that aligned with both the home’s physical constraints and budget considerations. READYSLATE met those requirements by using real slate in a lightweight modular format that preserves visual authenticity while simplifying installation. 

The system’s design played a central role in its performance on the job. Each panel arrives pre-assembled with four slate pieces, allowing crews to move efficiently while maintaining the traditional appearance homeowners expect. For Conrad Roofing, the streamlined process reduced labor demands and supported tighter scheduling without sacrificing craftsmanship. 

As the installation moved forward, the advantages extended beyond speed. The reduced weight eliminated structural concerns, while the modular approach helped control costs. The result was a finished roof that delivered the appearance of a classic slate installation with fewer barriers for both contractor and client. 

That experience has reshaped how Conrad Roofing approaches future projects. Wade noted that READYSLATE has become a regular offering for the company. “We now offer READYSLATE as part of our regular product range. In fact, we’re already bidding for a READYSLATE job for a neighbor of this property,” he shared. 

For contractors navigating similar challenges, the project illustrates how material innovation can expand design possibilities without compromising performance or aesthetics. READYSLATE’s approach offers a way to bridge the gap between aspiration and feasibility in high-end residential roofing. 

Learn more about how READYSLATE can bring the beauty of natural slate to your next roofing project!

By READYSLATE®. 

An international jury crowns Duhamel Couverture the Best of the Best while reinforcing the enduring excellence of natural slate craftsmanship. 

In a competition defined by technical rigor and respect for tradition, Duhamel Couverture has emerged at the top of the Best of the Best 2025, earning recognition that represents both mastery of craft and clarity of execution. For READYSLATE®, the result reflects more than a winning scorecard; it highlights the values that continue to elevate natural slate roofing on a global stage. Judged by an international panel of seasoned professionals and decided through a closely contested final vote, this year’s outcome reinforces the importance of precision, presentation and uncompromising standards in an industry where details define distinction. 

In the final vote, the French company secured 19 points, ahead of Haesen Rik Dakwerken (Belgium) with 11 points. The Durable Slate Company (United States) completed the podium with 9 points. 

Also taking part in the final round were CP Roofing Solutions (United Kingdom), with 5 points and Ardesia Couverture, which finished with 3 points. 

In their assessment, the jury stated, “Duhamel Couverture’s proposal stands out for its attention to detail and for the clarity with which complex construction solutions were presented.” 

The Best of the Best 2025 decision was made by an international jury of highly respected professionals, including Matt Timby (United Kingdom), Heidi J. Ellsworth (United States), Severino González (Spain), Henri Lefin (Belgium) and Sébastien Therenty (France). 

All jury members bring extensive professional experience and a strong background in the natural slate and roofing sector, ensuring a rigorous and well-balanced evaluation process. We would like to thank them once again for their commitment and continued collaboration. 

Our thanks also go to the five finalists and to the 35 companies that took part in this year’s edition. Because beyond being a competition, the Best of the Best is, above all, a way to recognize the wonderful craft of the natural slate roofer and the value of work carried out to the highest standards. 

We now look forward to welcoming Duhamel Couverture to our quarries, where they will have the opportunity to discover first-hand the origin of our slate. And to all other participants, we look forward to seeing you again in next year’s Best of the Best! 

Original article source: READYSLATE

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Roofers across the globe prepare for the fifth annual Best of the Best competition in slate roofing.  

READYSLATE® is gearing up for what it calls its biggest year yet as the company opens submissions for the 2025 Best of the Best competition, an international contest that highlights craftsmanship with natural slate. The event has become a staple in the industry, and organizers say interest continues to rise as installers look for new ways to share their work and gain recognition. 

The premise is straightforward. Roofers submit a short video that puts natural slate at the center of the story. Submissions can show a roof in progress or a finished project, recorded from the ground or shot from above. The only requirement is that the clip runs between 45 seconds and 2 minutes. READYSLATE will group entries by country for the first voting phase, which runs December 2-4, 2025. Readers of the company's blog will select national winners before a jury of international experts selects the global champion. Winners will be announced on December 16. 

The prize combines professional prestige with an experience that past participants describe as unforgettable. The ultimate winner will receive a trophy, a tour of the quarries in Ourense and VIP tickets to a Real Madrid match at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. 

Past winners say the contest offers more than visibility. French roofer Benoit Rochard said the recognition delivered great satisfaction for a family craft that spans more than 60 years. Compass Roofing director Lewis Miller described the competition as a fabulous experience that boosted confidence and sparked engagement from customers and peers. Clément Avignon of Ardesia Couverture said he encourages other installers to enter because the contest showcases the depth of skill across Europe. 

The entry window is open until November 30, 2025. Each participant receives a gift pack, including professional tools, as a thank you for taking part. Company representatives say the intent is to celebrate technique, creativity and pride in a trade that often operates far from the spotlight. 

Learn more about how to enter the Best of the Best competition and what this year’s experience could mean for your roofing business!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Bringing real slate roofing to labor-strapped contractors by simplifying installation without sacrificing performance. 

READYSLATE® is taking aim at one of the toughest problems in steep-slope roofing: how to bring authentic slate to markets that lack specialized installers. On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, product manager Pablo González Rodriguez explained how the system was built to make natural slate more accessible for contractors in the United States. “My name is Pablo González Rodriguez. I'm the READYSLATE product manager at Cupa Pizarras, the world leader in natural slate. I am in charge of pushing for the development, the launch and the distribution of READYSLATE everywhere in the world, but mainly in the U.S., which is the market that we intended when we start to develop that product.” 

At its core, READYSLATE is designed to look and perform like traditional slate while behaving more like a shingle on the roof. Pablo shared, “READYSLATE is real slate in a panel, basically. We took our slate and we attached them to a panel. So, it's shaped like shingles to make it easier to install and also lightweight, which is very important for the U.S. It's a totally new roofing concept.” 

That new concept is meant to solve a very old problem. Slate has always earned praise for longevity and performance, yet it traditionally demands a level of craftsmanship that few installers possess today. Pablo noted that while homeowners often focus on beauty and lifespan, the quality of the installation ultimately determines whether the material performs as intended.  

“When you think about re-roofing your house, homeowners usually focus on the material itself, the aesthetics, the aspect, but installation is crucial,” he said. “It's a strength but the poor installation can compromise even the best roofing material and I'm sure your listeners know that very well, so the importance of a very good and skilled roofing contractor is crucial.” 

He shared a recent example from a large project in Cameroon, where premium slate went on a roof without proper technique. He explained, “They choose us, they wanted the best slate, so we sent them the slate. And then the owner shared the pictures of the accomplished project with us and the install was not correct at all. And they will have water issues. They will have water filtration for sure. And it's a pity and it's a problem with, I mean, traditional slate is a bit more complex.” 

READYSLATE steps into that gap by giving contractors a way to offer real slate without the years of training that traditional installations demand. The system keeps the authenticity of natural stone but removes the barriers that have held many roofers back. As the product continues to grow in the U.S. market, their goal is simple: make slate practical, profitable and accessible for everyday roofing crews. For contractors looking to expand their offerings with a material that delivers both durability and curb appeal, READYSLATE provides a straight path forward.  

Listen to the podcast to learn more about READYSLATE and how it’s reshaping access to natural slate for today’s roofing contractors!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Compass Roofing’s second-generation leader leans into slate tradition and Scottish weather. 

Compass Roofing Limited has built its name on slate in one of the world’s most slate-heavy cities, and director Lewis Miller, who spoke on this episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast, is carrying that legacy into a new generation from the company’s base in Edinburgh. The family-owned firm operates primarily in the Scottish capital, where slate roofs dominate the historic skyline and surrounding suburbs, supported by partnerships with suppliers like READYSLATE®.  

Their work is overwhelmingly pitched slate roofing, supported by tiles and flat systems tailored to Scotland’s harsh climate. Lewis shared, “Pitch roofing, certainly slating, is taken up by 90% of it, with the other 10% probably being tiled roof, which is concrete and clay. And then the other side of our work is flat roofing and we use a product called Alvitra VSK.” 

Edinburgh provides the perfect backdrop for a slate specialist. “If you've ever seen photos or videos or anything of Edinburgh, you will see that the city centre and the surrounding areas is just filled with slate roofs and sort of 100-year-old, 150 plus year old buildings,” Lewis said. Beyond the historic tenements, Compass Roofing also installs slate on early 20th century bungalows on the city’s outskirts, matching both aesthetics and performance to the building stock. 

The company uses Scotch slate on older tenements in the city center, while premium Spanish slate from READYSLATE is reserved for many bungalow projects where consistency and durability are paramount. That matters in a region where cold, wet days are the norm rather than the exception. Lewis added, “Yeah, we can get to about three degrees Celsius, and I'm sure a lot of people know Scotland is a very wet place.” 

For Lewis, the appeal of slate is both visual and practical. The material aligns with Edinburgh’s architecture and stands up to relentless rain and wind, reinforcing Compass Roofing’s commitment to high-quality, long-lasting roofing solutions. 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about Compass Roofing Limited, READYSLATE and their slate roofing expertise!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

With hurricane-force wind testing and impact resistance, this lightweight slate roofing system aims to create future-proof homes. 

As climate events grow more extreme, roofing manufacturers are under pressure to deliver products that can stand up to punishing weather conditions. In this episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast, Morgan Cathey, sales director at Vermont Slate Company, explained how the reengineered READYSLATE® product isn't just lighter; it’s built to exceed the current standards of storm resilience. 

“We were at a Class 4 impact rating. As far as our wind rating, we've done all the testing. The max testing was 110 miles an hour for a fixed product. We modified that test and went up to 160 miles an hour with the product,” Morgan said. That level of testing goes well beyond common code requirements, including Florida and Miami-Dade certifications. 

The product was originally created to address the weight and labor constraints of traditional slate roofing. But now, READYSLATE’s standout value is its hybrid of real-slate aesthetics with thoroughly modern performance capabilities, including improvements driven by contractor feedback. 

From the headlap to the panel gasket, nearly every component has been tweaked for better durability and moisture protection. “We redesigned the product and we want to make it bulletproof. We want to make it easy to install and for the contractor to have confidence in it,” Morgan said. “We’ve increased the headlap and then also the lap side to side as well.” 

These modifications make the system especially appealing in storm-prone regions where contractors are fielding more questions from homeowners about wind-driven rain, hail and fire exposure. READYSLATE’s use of HDPE backer, an asphalt-free material, adds to its long-term reliability while helping to simplify installation in adverse conditions. 

While the company’s traditional slate business remains strong, Morgan noted that READYSLATE fills a critical niche. “Let’s improve the standard,” Morgan said. “Let’s go past the standard and see if we can’t improve the product to be able to pass stuff that hasn’t even come out yet.” 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about READYSLATE’s high-performance engineering and how it’s being deployed in both high-end and everyday roofing projects!

By READYSLATE. 

Classic slate roofing meets smart, modern upgrades that combine timeless beauty with cutting-edge convenience and ease of installation. 

For decades, slate has been the gold standard in high-end roofing, offering elegant, durable and undeniably timeless looks. But behind that prestige lies a heavy, labor-intensive process that’s kept many homeowners at arm’s length from attaining such aesthetics. Now, a new player in the roofing game is rewriting the rules. Enter READYSLATE®: a modular, pre-assembled slate roofing system that brings the beauty of natural slate into the 21st century, without the weight, hassle or steep learning curve of installation. And with Phoenix Exteriors championing its potential, this isn't just a product story, it's a shift in how we think about luxury roofing. 

At Phoenix Exteriors, innovation and craftsmanship go hand in hand. As a leader in high-quality roofing solutions, Phoenix Exteriors has embraced READYSLATE as an ideal choice for homeowners seeking a balance between luxury and practicality. 

In a recent project, a homeowner wanted a premium, low-maintenance roofing upgrade that would complement their home’s architectural style. They loved the elegance of slate but were concerned about weight and installation complexity. 

Phoenix Exteriors recommended READYSLATE for its seamless beauty and ease of installation. The result was a stunning transformation — an elegant, high-performance slate roof that will provide decades of protection while boosting the home’s visual appeal. 

READYSLATE is leading the way in innovative roofing solutions, helping homeowners achieve beautiful, durable and sustainable results. READYSLATE represents the next evolution of slate roofing, preserving its classic appeal while making it more accessible and practical than ever. 

Original article and photo source: READYSLATE