What Does a Roofer Do?

A roofer, also known as a roofing contractor, builds and repairs buildings’ exterior coverings. He or she may work for a small, independent roofing firm or for large construction companies that focus on exterior work.

The job includes many administrative duties, such as meeting with customers to discuss their options and attending meetings with ownership and salespeople. Roofers must also regularly participate in safety training. Click Here to learn more.

A roofer’s primary responsibilities are inspecting, repairing, or replacing roofing materials on residential and commercial buildings. They must be able to read blueprints and diagrams to follow job instructions. Roofers must also know how to install vapor barriers and insulation and cut and fit materials around vents, chimneys, and walls. Other duties include:

• Tearing off old roofing material.
• Installing the proper underlayment.
• Nailing down the shingles or other roofing materials.

They may also clean the work area and remove debris daily.

A roofer must have a high school diploma or equivalent to qualify. Most employers provide on-the-job training to new roofers. To become certified, some roofers may need to complete a post-secondary course or take a trades apprentice program. They can pursue further education and training to become a supervisor or job superintendent, or they can start their own roofing business.

If a roofer works for a union, they may have the opportunity to advance through the ranks and become a business manager or apprenticeship instructor. They can even become a union leader. Many roofers are in this career for the long haul, as roof systems typically need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years.

Because roofers are working on other people’s homes, it is important that they have excellent customer service skills. They must be polite and respectful to their clients, while always adhering to safety standards. They must also be able to maintain good communication with other crew members on their jobsites and with their clients.

Lastly, a roofer must be physically fit and able to perform manual labor for long periods of time. They must be able to climb ladders and scaffolding, as well as lift heavy materials. They will usually need to wear safety gear when performing these tasks. In addition, they must be able to work in hot environments, which can be uncomfortable and dangerous at times. Roofers also need to be able to follow instructions and work quickly to meet deadlines.

Education and Training Requirements

There are a number of ways to become a roofer, including attending trade school or earning an apprenticeship. However, some employers prefer applicants who have a high school diploma or equivalent and experience working outdoors. In addition, it’s important to be in good physical condition and comfortable with climbing ladders. A willingness to learn and follow instructions is also a must. Applicants can also improve their chances of finding work by taking courses that familiarize them with the tools and materials used in roofing.

Most roofers learn their skills on the job. Beginners start by helping experienced workers and gradually take on more challenging tasks. They are taught how to erect scaffolding, carry equipment and materials and how to use various types of roofing materials. It takes four or more years to master all the techniques of roofing. Some roofers re-slate and tile roofs while others fit skylight windows and replace lead sheeting and cladding.

Other qualifications for becoming a roofer include a strong attention to detail and excellent hand-eye coordination. In addition to these technical skills, roofers must understand safety protocols and be able to work in high places. They must also be able to respond quickly and efficiently to service calls. They may need to be trained in the use of new technology or systems. In some states, a state license is required to become a roofer. For example, in Massachusetts, roofers are required to have a home improvement registration and a construction supervisor license. Applicants in other states may need to be registered as contractors or certified.

Working Conditions

Those working as roofers are exposed to numerous health and safety risks. These can include exposure to fumes, dust and heat. Inhalation of construction dusts such as silica (common in concrete and mortar) can lead to lung cancer, silicosis or other respiratory diseases. Working with asbestos can also be harmful, particularly in older buildings. It can cause a range of health problems including lung cancer, kidney disease and anaemia.

It is essential for those working as roofers to have suitable personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes hard hats, gloves and eye protection. PPE is vital for the safety of roofers as well as others working in the vicinity. It helps to reduce the risk of injury or illness from falls, burns, electric shocks and other potential hazards.

PPE must be worn in accordance with the relevant law and employer policies. For example, under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 any lifting which might cause injury is prohibited unless an assessment has been made and adequate control measures put in place. In addition, the COSHH Regulations require that anyone who uses equipment such as ladders, tower scaffolds or stair towers to be trained in their safe use.

It is important for roofers to take frequent breaks from their work to prevent fatigue and discomfort. This can help to reduce the risk of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) which can affect the forearms, wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck. Breaks should also be taken to allow muscles to relax and change postures. The use of safety glasses or protective goggles can help to protect the eyes from a variety of hazards including dust, falling debris and chemical splashes. It is also necessary to wear hearing protection as noise levels can be high on a construction site.

Salary

The salary of a roofer varies depending on the location, industry and level of education. The salary is higher in San Francisco than in Miami, for example.

Roofers also receive benefits such as vacation time and health insurance. They are typically required to complete safety training on a yearly basis.

In addition, workers may earn bonuses for completing certain jobs on time or within budget. They may also be able to increase their earnings by earning additional certifications or becoming supervisors who oversee other roofers.

The median wage for roofers is $36,517. Those who assist roofers with duties that require less skill are classified as construction laborers (47-2061). The industries and areas with the highest published employment, location quotients and wages for Helpers–Roofers are provided. For a customized table of statistics, click the Create Customized Tables function. This data is based on surveys of both employers and employees. The Zippia Research Team spends countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings and government data to determine what it takes to get hired for each profession.

Roofing materials

Roofing materials must be chosen carefully to ensure the integrity of the roof and to meet the needs of each homeowner. The material will also impact the longevity of residential roofing repairs and the overall cost of the project.

Asphalt shingles are among the most common roofing materials because of their affordability and durability. However, they can be vulnerable to damage from strong winds and are prone to leaks around chimneys and skylights. Their lifespan can be increased by regular maintenance and repairs.

Thermoplastic polyolefin or PVC membranes are another popular choice for flat or low-sloped roofs because they’re water and fire resistant. They are also easy to install, which reduces stress on the roof structure. Although they have a shorter lifespan than other roofing types, they can still last up to 30 years with proper care.

Tile roofs offer a unique blend of longevity and historical charm, but they can be difficult to maintain. It is important to repair any damage promptly to prevent leaks and other issues. Clay tiles are another durable option, but they can be prone to cracking or breaking.

Metal roofs are long-lasting and energy efficient, but they can be expensive. They’re also more susceptible to hail damage and can become damaged by snow and ice. If you decide to use metal for your roof, it’s important to choose a contractor with experience installing this type of roofing.

A professional roofing contractor will assess your roof’s condition before giving you a quote. They’ll look for signs of serious damage, such as mold growth or gaps in the shingle overlay. They’ll also check the flashing, which is located around chimneys and where the roof planes meet. If the flashing is damaged or missing, it should be replaced.

Before starting on your roofing repair, it’s a good idea to rent a dumpster and cover any foundation plantings or shrubbery with tarps to protect them from debris. The contractor will also need a ladder and magnetic tools to pick up any nails or screws that fall off during the process.