We’d like to profile a truly special partner of ours. They’ve been a key collaborator with us on some of the most technically difficult projects we’ve ever come across. Our systems are only as good as the installation craftsmanship. We have EVERY confidence in this team. They are top in the country in what they do. Check out their BEAUTIFUL new website: Atelier Fine Metal Roofing – Premier old world hand tool fine metal roofing company
Here’s an in-depth interview with the founder, William Verlander:
Interview with William Verlander, owner of Atelier Fine Metal Roofing
- How did you get into metal roofing?
I was working a job in the country, in Winchester KY. The client was having an addition build and needed a metal roof the match the old original, and nobody knew what the original metal was. The architect asked if I knew how to do standing seam work. I wanted to try but this wasn’t really an appropriate job to practice on. However, the locals didn’t have the experience to do the job either, so he asked me for a proposal. I found a company that had experience with metals and standing seam work, and we believed the original metal was zinc. This guy had a Hungarian name, which was coincidental, as I had close ties to Hungary as well. It turned out to be Erno Ovari, of Spengler Industries. He stressed the importance of the new metal and techniques matching the old, and said that if locals didn’t know how to do it they shouldn’t be offering their services. I asked him how I could learn. This led to Erno flying out to teach me the methods I needed to learn for this job one on one and using a model.
- What drew you to traditional European style metal roofing?
The beauty, quality, permanence, and natural materials. The fact that there are so many ways that you can apply metal to buildings. We don’t really have these skills in the US, and I’ve always admired really skilled work. When you have masters who have been doing this work since the Middle Ages, how can you not take advantage of the knowledge available?
- How did you learn the traditional techniques?
By training and consulting with Erno, studying books, and practicing techniques by building models. Training is ongoing, each job presents new and unique challenges, and we are always learning and practicing new things. I am lucky to have access to a true master (Erno trained in Germany, where he became a prestigious Meisterbreif holder). Whenever I am facing the unknown, we have meetings over the phone, share sketches, or in person visits either at the jobsite, or his shop in Utah.
- What did you do before? What is your background?
I was working in general construction. In the two years before my first metal job, I had remodeled two whole houses. I saw that the best thing you could do for a house was give it permanent protection from the elements through a quality roof.
- What about schooling and hobbies?
I studied philosophy. Even though they say I learned philosophy, I didn’t really learn anything. I have also studied the ancient languages, Greek and Latin. In my spare time, I enjoy nature: hiking, camping, and sea kayaking; as well as reading and continuing my language studies.
- What is it that makes your roofs special?
We use natural, non-corroding metals, and European handwork style installation. These roofs can be considered permanent and will last hundreds of years if done right.
- Describe your typical project experiences.
Our typical project is highly custom and unique, always presenting its own set of challenges. We don’t do normal jobs, so the only thing that can be considered typical is that each job is one of a kind.
- What is your vision for the future of AFMR, and the industry in this county as a whole?
I don’t see the industry as a whole growing very rapidly, because this type of work is not fast, cheap, or easy. Also, we have no organized formal system of training in this country, as they do in Europe, which presents a huge obstacle. For AFMR, our goal is to be as good as the standard in Europe, where they do have the education, training, and standards, and it is really an art form. As I said before, we are lucky to have had our own trainer at the master level and will continue to take advantage of every source of knowledge available.
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William Verlander Bio
Meet William Verlander, owner of Atelier Fine Metal Roofing
William’s journey into the world of metal roofing began in his home state of KY. Tasked with replicating an original metal roof for a client’s addition while working in general construction, he embarked on a quest to master the art of standing seam work. He connected with Erno Ovari of Spengler Industries, a master in the craft. This encounter not only laid the foundation for Atelier Fine Metal Roofing but also instilled in William a profound respect for preserving the heritage of metal roofing.
What sets William apart is his admiration for traditional European-style metal roofing, characterized by its beauty, quality, permanence, and use of natural materials. Recognizing the scarcity of such skills in the US, he made it his mission to bring this craftsmanship to American rooftops.
William’s commitment to quality and enduring protection for homes led him to discover the transformative power of a high-quality roof. His path to mastery has been marked by training and consultation with Erno, extensive reading, and hands-on practice. Learning is an ongoing journey, as each project presents unique challenges. AFMR specializes in highly customized solutions. No two jobs are alike, ensuring that every client receives a one-of-a-kind roofing experience, and every obstacle is transformed into an opportunity for growth.
Atelier Fine Metal Roofing (AFMR) takes pride in their use of natural, non-corroding metals and the European handwork style of installation. Their roofs are enduring works of art that can withstand the test of time, executed with precision for a lifespan of potential centuries.
In the world of roofing, Atelier Fine Metal Roofing has become a beacon of artistry, quality, and timeless beauty, thanks to the vision and dedication of William Verlander. AFMR strives to match the European standard of excellence, remaining committed to the artistry and preservation of traditional metal roofing techniques.
Amazing, right? If you’re looking into a permanent solution for your metal roof or wall, we’ll get you connected with the right people. And if you’re a roofing company who’d like to get training to do these kinds of projects, reach out to us or the Atelier team, and we’ll get you situated.
