The State of Slate: Vermont Slate
Continuing our series of industry-related updates, we wanted to share insight on the current state of Vermont slate as we close out 2025 and move into 2026. This update includes industry feedback from Lucas Severance of Slate Valley Supply, Bob Williams of Newmont Slate, along with our own firsthand experience supplying and installing Vermont slate across North America.
The State of Slate: Vermont Slate
Market Overview
As 2025 concludes, the roofing slate industry continues to adjust to long-term changes that began during the COVID era. According to Lucas Severance, lead times for specific Vermont slate colors remain elevated and appear to be the new market standard. Spanish slate transit times also remain longer than pre-pandemic levels, reinforcing the importance of early planning for slate projects.
Supply & Production
The overall supply of slate produced in Vermont is flat to declining year over year. The closure of Buckingham Slate’s roofing production has further tightened supply, placing additional pressure on lead times and availability. While volumes increased in 2025 and modest growth is projected for 2026, supply constraints remain a key challenge for the industry.
Regional Trends
Regionally, the Northeast and New England markets appear slower than in prior years, which may be a temporary fluctuation. In contrast, the Midwest and Southern markets — particularly the Gulf Coast — remain very strong.
Bob Williams notes continued momentum driven by high-end residential work, institutional projects, and population shifts to southern states.
Pricing & Costs
Pricing for Vermont slate has increased substantially since 2020 — in some cases by as much as 75%. The days of purchasing sea green slate at historically low price points are long gone. These increases are driven by labor, insurance, fuel, equipment, tariffs, and general operating costs. Additional price increases are expected moving into 2026.
Lead Times
Lead times continue to vary widely depending on slate color and size. Some standard sizes remain in stock, while others range from 12 to 16 weeks. A realistic rule of thumb for most projects remains 6–8 weeks, underscoring the importance of early material coordination.
Technology & Investment
Both Severance and Williams point to continued investment in automation and equipment, including robotic handling, automated trimmers and splitters, and modern milling technology. These improvements are raising consistency and efficiency, though demand continues to test overall production capacity.
Demand & Reclaimed Slate
Demand for Vermont slate — new and reclaimed — remains at an all-time high with no meaningful slowdown in sight. Reclaimed slate continues to be a very viable option, though availability remains well below demand. In many cases, reclaimed material is sold before it is even secured, which in turn fuels additional demand for new Vermont slate.
Closing Thoughts
Vermont slate remains an integral part of our business from both a supply and installation standpoint. Renaissance continues to work closely with quarries and distributors to provide high-quality materials, competitive pricing, and realistic lead times nationwide.
We would like to thank Lucas Severance and Bob Williams for their insight, as well as our quarry and distribution partners for their continued collaboration. We look forward to working with you on your next new or reclaimed slate project.
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