Roofing is an interesting trade to get into because it doesn’t require a lot of formal education. It also pays well and there are many job opportunities available for qualified individuals.
Roofers often work on their own, but they can also be employed by large companies that specialize in roofing. The downside is the potential danger involved with this type of work; injuries are commonplace for those who work on roofs all day long.
How to Start Your Roofing Career
The best way to learn the trade is through on-the-job training.
Most companies require experience and a high school diploma, but some will accept those who don’t have either of these qualifications as long as they are willing to start out doing manual labor such as sweeping floors or carrying tools.
Roofers should be comfortable with heights and should be able to work in all types of weather.
They should also enjoy working outdoors and not mind putting in long hours during the summer months when it’s very hot, because roofing often involves daytime projects only.
Roofers should be outgoing and personable because they often interact with customers who want to know how long the project is going to take.
They need excellent communication skills as well, in order to understand their supervisor or foreman’s directions clearly and make sure that materials are ordered on time.
What are the Roles of a Roofer?
Roofers are responsible for installing, replacing and repairing roofs. As a roofer, there’s no telling what the day will bring because every job is different.
There may be some prep work to do before starting on a new client’s roofing project or they might have to put down a tarp before removing an old shingle from someone’s roof.
Roofers usually work on their own or with a small team of workers, but they may also be responsible for hiring and supervising additional employees when the workload is heavy.
They must ensure that all tools needed to complete the job are readily available and in good working order before getting started.
The most important responsibility of a roofer is to make sure that the work site is safe at all times.
They are responsible for any accidents or injuries that occur while on the job, so they must keep communication open with their team members and ensure no one gets hurt.
Roofing Career Requirements
Most roofers begin as labourers who carry out tasks such as sweeping floors and carrying tools.
They must also be able to use basic hand and power tools necessary for the job, such as drills, chippers, saws or jackhammers.
Once they gain experience in these areas roofers can become helpers who assist journeymen under their supervision by laying tar paper, placing shingles on roofs or stripping old shingles and replacing them with new ones.
After a few years of experience, roofers can become journeyman in their company or be able to work independently as subcontractors who hire out their services when needed.
They must also have the required insurance before they can begin working on roofs because accidents do happen and liability is an important part of the job.
Are There Any Salary Ranges?
The average income of a roofer is $42,214. They may also be offered a percentage of each completed roof or receive bonuses for meeting certain production quotas.
It is a career that can be very dangerous, but it does pay well and there are many opportunities out there. If you are comfortable working at great heights and don’t mind the heat, this could be a good career choice for you.
Different Types of Roofers & Materials They Use
Every homeowner wants to make sure that their roofs are in the best possible condition, this is why it’s important to have a professional roofing contractor come out and inspect your roof at least once every year.
There are many different types of roofers who work for construction companies or own their own businesses. These people perform many different tasks on roofs including repairing, replacing shingles, and installing decorative finishes.
Commercial Roofer
This type of roofer is often contracted by companies or business owners for construction projects.
These types of roofs can be flat or steep, and they cover warehouses, factories , commercial buildings, and other types of businesses with large square footage.
Flat Roofer
Flat roofs are the most common type of commercial roofing. They have a very low slope and less complicated design than other types, which makes them easier to work on.
Most construction companies will hire a flat roof contractor if a project requires a new one, but sometimes owners will choose to have a company replace theirs as well for aesthetic reasons.
Residential Roofer
Unlike commercial roofs, residential roofs are often flat or steep. They can also be made out of either metal (most common) or wood shake.
This type of roofer has the task of repairing and replacing shingles for residential customers.
Single Ply Roofer
Single ply roofs are made by companies that specialize in this type of construction. They are often rubber, asphalt or plastic.
Single ply roofs are quick to install and cost less than other types of residential roofing options, but they generally have a shorter lifespan. They are mostly used for new construction, but they can also be added onto existing roofs.
Conclusion
Roofing is a career that can be very lucrative and rewarding, but it’s important to remember the dangers involved with this type of job.
If you are looking to improve the appearance of your roof, or if you feel that it needs repairs there are many different types of roofers who can help.
