What Does a Roofer Do?

A roofer installs, repairs and replaces roofing systems, including conventional, inverted built-up, single-ply and two-ply modified. They also perform damp, water and weather- proofing along with installing and repairing slate, tile and shingles and resurfacing roofs.

Job Related Skills, Interests and Values

reading interpreting drawings, specifications and manuals
examining/inspecting roofs and roof surfaces
documenting and informing employer/co-workers of roof condition using sketches and diagrams
setting up manual and power hoists, determining the weight of the load and using hand signals during lift
selecting, setting up, maintaining and operating hand/power tools and equipment
being in good physical condition
working well with co-workers under deadlines
learning and keeping up to date on various materials and regulations

This work is most rewarding for those who enjoy physical exercise, working with their hands, developing special skills, and the security of steady employment.

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

To become a Roofer, you must complete a 3-year (4,000 hours) apprenticeship training program, comprised of on-the-job and in-school training and successfully complete the required examinations and hours of employment. Although the minimum entry requirement for this skill trade is grade 10, most employers require a minimum of Grade 12 or equivalent. Related training in High School through co-operative education in construction, or technical courses is an advantage.

What’s Your Future as a Roofer?

Most roofers are employed by roofing contractors on construction or repair jobs. Some roofers are members of unions and work from union halls.

The work is seasonal and workers may expect periods of unemployment due to inclement weather even during the summer months. However, this occupation is less sensitive to economic changes than some other construction trades because there is steady demand for repair work even if new construction is slow. Roof systems require regular replacement every 15 to 20 years depending on the system used.

Roofers may advance to supervisory positions or become contractors themselves. With additional apprenticeship training, they can transfer their skills to other construction occupations such as carpenter or sheet metal worker. Examples of typical employers include:

residential building developers
building construction firms
construction contractors
roofing contractors
independent contractor

For additional information about this career, check out the construction sector website at: www.CareersInConstruction.ca.

Wage Rate

apprentices usually start at a wage rate less than that of a journeyperson
this rate increases gradually as you gain competency and skill
a fully qualified Roofer can earn anywhere from $14.00/hr to $28.00/hr or more, sometimes with employee benefits and opportunities for overtime

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is working as a Roofer for You?

Do you enjoy working with your hands using a variety of tools and equipment?	Yes No
Would you enjoy working in a job that requires physical stamina, routine lifting of heavy objects in excess of 25 kilograms, working outdoors perhaps during bad weather and often at varying heights?	Yes No
Are you good at using numbers and performing calculations?	Yes No
Do you enjoy keeping up with and learning about new technology and materials?	Yes No
Can you communicate effectively as a member of a team with supervisors and co-workers?	Yes No
Can you work independently or in a group to get a job done on deadline?	Yes No