About Us
Founded on Walcot Street in the architectural heart of Bath, Heritage Slate & Lead Craftsmen is a family-run company that has safeguarded the region’s rooftops for over four decades. Our ethos is simple: respect the past, refine the present, and secure the future of every structure we touch.
- ✔ Over 40 years specialising in historic properties
- ✔ Certified members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors
- ✔ Fully insured & compliant with BS 5534 roofing standards
- ✔ Trusted by local councils, churches, and listed-building owners
Our Services
Traditional French Slate Roofing
Supply and installation of Tournai, Ardoise d’Angers and Welsh Penrhyn slates with hand-dressed edges for an authentically coursed finish and century-long durability.
Specialist Leadwork
Milled lead flashings, valleys, dormers and ornamental details crafted to LSTA guidelines, guaranteeing weather-tight junctions and graceful ageing.
Historic Roof Restoration
Full refurbishment for Grade I & II listed buildings, including timber repairs, breathable underlay upgrades and conservation-grade copper fixings.
Chimney Repair & Pointing
Lime mortar repointing, flaunching repairs and pot replacements ensure structural integrity and improved draught performance.
Copper & Bespoke Metalwork
Custom copper gutters, hoppers and dormer cladding fabricated in-house for unrivalled longevity and warm architectural character.
Our Craftsmanship Process
1. Detailed Roof Survey
Drone imaging, moisture mapping and physical inspection deliver a 30-page condition report with a transparent schedule of works.
2. Material Sourcing
Partnerships with reclaimed slate yards across France and Wales guarantee historically compatible materials.
3. Precision Hand-Dressing
Every slate is trimmed and holed by hand on our Walcot Street bench to achieve millimetre-perfect alignment.
4. Lead Bossing & Welding
Propane torches and oak paddles shape lead sheets to templates, assuring flawless water run-off.
5. Installation & Quality Assurance
Digital pitch gauges and torque-calibrated fixings back our 25-year workmanship guarantee.
Sustainability
Reclaimed Slate Re-Use
Over 60 % of our projects incorporate reclaimed slates, diverting 18 t of material from landfill annually.
95 %
Lead off-cuts and stripped sheets are melted and recast locally, achieving an industry-leading recovery rate.
Lead Recycling Loop
-90 %
Our Euro 6 fleet runs on HVO biofuel, slashing CO₂ output on site visits.
Low-Emission Fleet
Certified to ISO 14001 Environmental Management and proud finalist of the NFRC Environmental Roofing Awards 2022.
Featured Projects
Bath Abbey North Transept
Client: Bath & Wells Diocese | Duration: 14 weeks
600 m² roof re-slated with Spanish Del Carmen slate, lead valley renewal and concealed gutter rebuild.
Georgian Townhouse, Royal Crescent
Client: Private Residence | Duration: 6 weeks
Selective slate replacement, lime mortar chimney repointing and bespoke copper dormer cladding.
Client Testimonials
Their knowledge of traditional materials ensured our listed cottage retained its original character while finally being watertight.
James Lee – Property Owner, Bradford-on-Avon
Professional from survey through to completion; the detailed photo reports were invaluable for our conservation records.
Sarah Bennett – Heritage Officer, BANES Council
The on-site team were courteous and tidy each day, a real bonus while we lived through the works.
Priya Shah – Architect, Bathwick
The copper guttering they fabricated has become a talking point for guests—beautiful workmanship.
Gareth Morgan – Hotelier, Widcombe
Prompt communication, clear costing, and a finish that exceeded our conservation officer’s expectations.
Helen Griffiths – Estate Manager, Corsham Court
The 25-year guarantee gave us real peace of mind. Outstanding service all round.
Tomás O’Neil – Homeowner, Keynsham
Meet the Team
John Fletcher
Master Slater & Founder
NVQ 3 Heritage Roofing, 45 years’ experience, NFRC regional judge.
Emily Davies
Leadwork Specialist
LSTA-approved craftswoman focusing on bossing techniques and ornate lead casting.
Oliver Clarke
Survey & Compliance Manager
CAA-certified drone pilot delivering digital roof surveys and rigorous H&S compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Us
Workshop & Office
47 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BU, UK
Phone: 01225 876543
Email: info@
Hours: Mon–Fri 08:00–17:00