What Roofer Workers Do

Roofers cover roofs of structures with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood, or related materials to make buildings watertight. They inspect problem roofs to determine the best way to repair them, remove old roof materials, and align roofing materials with edges of roofs.

Day-to-day work involves measuring roofs to calculate materials needed, cutting materials to size, and installing them using hand or power tools. Roofers waterproof or damp-proof walls using materials like rubber or asphalt compounds, mend and replace roof structures damaged by weather, and install vapor barriers or layers of insulation on flat roofs.

Typical environments include residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial structures, often outdoors in all weather conditions. Work occurs on steep roofs, ladders, scaffolding, or high heights, requiring physical strength to lift heavy materials and endurance for long hours in heat, cold, rain, or wind. Safety gear like harnesses is standard due to fall risks.

Helpers--roofers support by supplying tools and materials, holding items, cleaning work areas, and performing less skilled tasks. They work alongside experienced roofers in the same demanding conditions.

How to Get Started

No formal educational credential is required; a high school diploma or equivalent helps but isn't mandatory. Entry often starts as a helper or laborer to learn basics on the job.

Most roofers learn through moderate-term on-the-job training, typically 1-3 months, where employers teach safety, tool use, and installation techniques. Longer apprenticeships, lasting 3-4 years, combine paid work with classroom instruction on blueprint reading, math, roofing systems, and safety.

To find apprenticeships, contact local roofing contractors, unions like the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers, or state employment offices. Some community colleges or vocational schools offer short roofing programs. Start by applying for helper positions at roofing firms to gain experience.

Typical timeline: 1-3 months as a helper earning entry wages, then advance to journeyman roofer after 2-4 years of training. Physical fitness, balance, and no fear of heights are essential. Expect manual labor from day one.

  • Step 1: Get physically fit and obtain basic safety training (OSHA 10-hour course recommended).
  • Step 2: Apply as roofer helper at local contractors.
  • Step 3: Enroll in apprenticeship program.
  • Step 4: Gain 2-4 years experience to become journeyman.

Certifications and Licenses Needed

No national license is required, but most states demand roofers be licensed for independent work. Requirements vary: some states require passing exams on roofing codes and business practices; others mandate years of experience plus bonding and insurance.

Check your state's licensing board. For example, Florida and California have strict rules through their Construction Industry Licensing Boards. Contractors often sponsor licenses for employees.

Key certifications include OSHA safety certification for construction, manufacturer-specific training for shingles or membranes (e.g., GAF or CertainTeed programs), and union journeyman cards from the United Union of Roofers.

Helpers need no certifications but benefit from OSHA training. Renew licenses periodically and maintain insurance to bid on jobs legally.

Pay and Career Progression

Entry-level roofer helpers earn around the median of $38,620 annually ($18.57/hour) as of May 2023. Experienced roofers reach the median annual wage of $50,970 ($24.51/hour) in May 2024.

Wages vary by location and industry. Top metro areas like New York ($74,180 mean annual in older data) or Chicago ($73,280 in 2023) pay more; Florida areas like Miami average $48,770. Building finishing contractors pay roofers $66,580 mean annual.

Career progression: Helper (1-2 years, $38k-$45k) → Journeyman Roofer (3-5 years, $50k-$70k) → Foreman/Crew Lead (5-10 years, $60k-$90k+) → Contractor/Owner (10+ years, $100k+ with business). Union members often earn higher with benefits. Overtime and side jobs boost pay; self-employed roofers handle variable income but keep profits.

Helpers' 75th percentile reaches $45,400; roofers in high-demand areas exceed $70k.

Job Outlook

Employment of roofers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. About 12,700 openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Current employment stands at 166,700 roofers. Growth stems from new construction, repairs from storms, and aging infrastructure needing replacement. Demand drivers include population growth, housing shortages, extreme weather damaging roofs, and commercial retrofits for energy efficiency.

Most openings will replace workers leaving for other jobs or retirement. Helpers number around 4,540, with steady need in foundation and exterior contractors. High-demand states like California, Florida, and Texas offer more opportunities.