Durable begins 2025 with Gary Howes as newest Principal of The Durable Group

This significant development highlights Gary’s invaluable contributions to the company and underscores his commitment to its continued growth and success.

The Durable Slate Company is proud to announce that Gary Howes, currently chief operating officer, has been named a new Principal of the company. Gary joins Michael Chan and John Chan as Principal. This significant development highlights Gary’s invaluable contributions to the company and underscores his commitment to its continued growth and success.

Gary’s journey with the company began in 1989 when he started working in the field, working on roofs. Over the years, he became a skilled slater and roofing artisan, earning the prestigious Builder’s Exchange Craftsmanship Award in 1995. Gary has held numerous technical positions within the company, pioneering and mastering the Durable Way and rising to the role of executive vice president of operations before becoming chief operating officer of The Durable Group. His expertise extends to historic preservation, with a particular focus on traditional roofing techniques, including the repair, restoration and installation of copper, slate and tile roofs. His mastery of these materials has helped set the standard for excellence in preserving the craftsmanship and integrity of historic structures.

In addition to his vital contributions to The Durable Slate Company, Gary plays an influential role within the roofing industry at both national and international levels. Since 2018, Gary has served on the National Roofing Contractors Association’s (NRCA) board of directors, where he contributes to the global advisory committee and the health and safety committee. His leadership within these organizations reflects his commitment to advancing the industry through education, innovation and safety.

For the Slate Roofing Contractors Association of North America (SRCA), Gary has been chairman of the board since 2013, advocating for the growth of slate roofing craftsmanship and the establishment of higher industry standards. He also serves on the SRCA’s education and training committee and is a registered training instructor. Recently, Gary achieved another historic milestone by being appointed to the executive board of the International Federation of Roofing (IFD)—becoming the first American to hold this prestigious position.

Now, as a new Principal of The Durable Slate Company, Gary brings his extensive field experience, technical expertise and visionary leadership to help steer the company into an even brighter future. His expanded involvement will enhance the company’s ability to expand its reach while staying true to its core values of craftsmanship and dedication to historic preservation.

The Durable Slate Company, part of The Durable Group, specializes in traditional slate, tile and metal roofing, as well as historic building restoration through their sister company, The Durable Restoration Company. With Gary Howes now on board as a Principal, the company is poised for an even brighter future as it continues to protect and restore historic treasures worldwide.

About The Durable Slate Company

Founded in 1986, The Durable Slate Company is a nationally recognized leader in historic roofing and restoration. With a commitment to excellence and craftsmanship, the company specializes in slate, tile and copper roofing, as well as the preservation of historic structures across the United States and internationally. For more information about The Durable Slate Company and its services, visit www.durableslate.com.