For over seven decades, W J Horrod Ltd has been at the forefront of designing and manufacturing equipment for the roofing and civil engineering industries. Since its foundation in 1950, the company has built a reputation for ingenuity, reliability, and an unwavering commitment to safety. Today, we celebrate 75 years of a journey defined by innovation, craftsmanship, and the determination to create safer work environments for the professionals who rely on their equipment.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
Founded in 1950, W J Horrod Ltd began as a modest enterprise focused on repairing existing competitors’ equipment, to crafting machines and plant for the roofing and civil engineering sectors. The company quickly became known for its dedication to producing high-quality equipment tailored to the needs of industry professionals. Early innovations, such as asphalt cauldrons and bitumen boilers, set the stage for the company’s growth, helping it to establish a foothold in a competitive market. As the industry evolved, so too did W J Horrod Ltd. The company expanded its offerings to include Asphalt Mixers, with capacities of up to 4 tons, as well as Hot Air Rubber materials melters, available in both gas-fired and fully electric variations. These advancements not only increased efficiency on work sites, but also prioritised safety, ensuring that workers could operate cutting-edge equipment with confidence.
Safety as a Core Principle
Safety has always been central to W J Horrod Ltd’ philosophy, but it was the late Terry Horrod Snr who truly revolutionised the company’s approach to protecting workers. His dedication to improving equipment design stemmed from an acute awareness of the dangers posed by traditional processes. From severe burns caused by mishandling bitumen to site accidents involving outdated machinery, Terry Horrod Snr recognised the urgent need for safer solutions. Under his leadership, W J Horrod Ltd worked closely with the Health & Safety Executive to promote a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in roofing and civil engineering processes. His efforts were instrumental in influencing safety regulations and ensuring that equipment was designed with both efficiency and worker protection in mind.
Designing for Efficiency and Longevity
Beyond safety, W J Horrod Ltd has consistently prioritised efficiency and longevity in its design processes. The company’s machines and plant are engineered to withstand the rigours of demanding work environments, providing professionals with reliable tools that stand the test of time. Whether it’s the robust construction of Asphalt Mixers, or the precision engineering behind Hot Air Rubber materials melters, each product reflects a commitment to excellence. Efficiency, too, has been a hallmark of W J Horrod Ltd.’s approach. By streamlining workflows and reducing downtime, the company’s equipment empowers workers to complete projects on schedule and within budget. The introduction of electric-powered melters is a testament to this ethos, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to traditional gasfired models.
A Legacy of Innovation
As W J Horrod Ltd celebrates its 75th anniversary, it is impossible to overlook the impact of its innovative spirit. From its early days crafting asphalt cauldrons, to its current status as a leader in advanced machinery, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in roofing and civil engineering. This legacy of innovation is evident not only in the equipment itself, but also in the relationships the company has built with industry professionals. By listening to the needs of its customers and responding with tailored solutions, W J Horrod Ltd has earned the trust and respect of countless workers and organisations.
Looking Ahead
As W J Horrod Ltd enters its 76th year of operation, the company remains committed to the values that have defined its journey. Safety, efficiency, and longevity will continue to guide its design processes, ensuring that future generations of workers can rely on equipment that meets the highest standards.
The legacy of Terry Horrod Snr lives on in the company’s dedication to protecting workers and advancing industry practices. His vision for a safer, more efficient future remains a driving force behind W J Horrod Ltd.’s operations, inspiring the next wave of innovations.
Kim Wilkins née Horrod and Terry Horrod Jnr have steadily built upon their father’s vision, carrying forward the legacy of excellence and innovation that defines W J Horrod Ltd. Both worked under Terry Horrod Snr’s leadership for more than 40 years, gaining invaluable insights into the nuances of the industry. When he was lost to them and the roofing and civil engineering sector in August 2009, the weight of his leadership and vision was passed to them.
In the years since, they have modernised and expanded the company’s safety protocols, ensuring that advancements in other industries are harnessed to create more efficient and worker-friendly tools. Their commitment to innovation is evident in the machinery they design and manufacture, which seamlessly integrates the latest technologies to enhance performance while upholding the highest standards of safety.
Kim and Terry Jr. are continuing the operations of W J Horrod Ltd by mentoring the next generation of Horrods, including grandson, Terry James, Thomas, and recently Toni. Terry and Thomas have been trained in the workshop to understand the mechanics and skills required to construct the equipment designed by Horrods. Meanwhile, Toni is being mentored by her aunt in office management. This transfer of knowledge between generations highlights the company’s commitment to preserving its practices and values.
Today, we honour the remarkable achievements of W J Horrod Ltd and the people who have made it a success. From its foundation in 1950, to its status as an industry leader in 2025, the company’s journey has been one of perseverance, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to safety. As we celebrate 75 years of excellence, we look forward to a future defined by the same principles that have guided the company since its inception. W J Horrod Ltd is not just a manufacture, it is a symbol of what can be achieved when innovation meets purpose. Here’s to the next chapter in its extraordinary story.
