Wigan Roofer Takes Home Title of UK's Young Roofer of the Year

At just 23 years old, Jake Harlow - has earned a nomination for one of the most prestigious accolades in the UK roofing industry, the Young Roofer of the Year award. This recognition is a testament to his unmatched dedication, leadership, and craftsmanship.

Jake's journey into roofing wasn't planned. Originally pursuing a career in public services, he soon realised his passion was in practical, hands-on work. Following a recommendation from his father, Jake joined Safeseal Roofing Ltd as a labourer. He was mentored by Ben, the company founder, who had learnt the trade from Jake's dad years earlier. This special connection marked the beginning of Jake's meteoric rise in the industry.

Wigan, 9 May 2025 – Safeseal Roofing Ltd is proud to share that 23-year-old team member Jake Harlow has been named NFRC UK Young Roofer of the Year , receiving the national award at a ceremony in London organized by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors.

At the age of 18, Jake began his career with Safeseal Roofing Ltd as a laborer. Fast forward five years, and he now oversees a team of three workers, handling some of the firm's largest and most intricate projects yet—such as the eco-friendly roofing initiative at Chester Zoo and a massive installation involving a 5,000 square meter Bauder flat roof spanning twenty rooftops for an upcoming residential complex in downtown Manchester.

"Jake's skills, expertise, and mindset are exactly right," he stated. Ben Craven The Managing Director of Safeseal Roofing Ltd., "He plays an essential role in our company, and we're absolutely thrilled to see his contributions acknowledged nationally by the NFRC."

Apart from his deep technical skills, Jake has expanded his role in the company to cover broader areas such as conducting health and safety inspections and guiding colleagues towards obtaining their industry certifications and NVQ qualifications, all while maintaining oversight of onsite operations.

Jake’s narrative illustrates what can happen when young individuals get an opportunity to gain knowledge, assume responsibilities, and create their own future. His achievements demonstrate that the roofing industry can provide a viable career trajectory for upcoming generations.

We understand the challenges of bringing fresh talent into the roofing sector," remarked Ben. "However, having someone like Jake on board conveys a strong message—that through dedication and effort, one can forge a highly promising career.

About Safeseal Roofing Ltd

Safeseal Roofing Ltd is a family-operated business specializing in roofing services located in Ince, Wigan, with operations spanning across the North West region. Established eight years back within the confines of Managing Director Ben Craven’s garage, the vision has always been to create not just success but also opportunities for growth both personally and collectively within the local area.

Currently, the company has expanded into a team of 19 individuals and handles various types of roofing jobs—from residential properties to large-scale commercial constructions.

At the core of Safeseal lies a straightforward principle: provide individuals with opportunities. Ben understands personally how significant this impact can be, which is precisely why Safeseal invests heavily in nurturing its workforce, taking care of its employees, and offering young talents space to flourish. The firm prioritizes safeguarding homes as well as fostering careers—Jake’s story perfectly illustrates this commitment.