The job market is very diverse. The decisions we make throughout our lives are those that most define us. If you have a strong interest in something, you should consider pursuing a career in that sector. If you want to work as a roofer, you can achieve professional success in that field if you work hard enough. Whatever subject piques your interest, you should be aware of the most efficient methods for furthering your career in that sector. The focus of the content of this article is on how to be a roofer. We are certain that you will have a thorough grasp of how to operate as a roofer after reading this article.
What do Roofers do?
Roofers work with a range of materials, including shingles, bitumen, and metal, to replace, repair, and put roofs of structures. This is the main scope of work of roofers. Yet, this is not simple as this may seem.
So, what is the whole set of things that you must do as a roofer? Let us explain. Examining damaged roofs and identifying them is the best course of action to start with. Afterward, you would have to measure the amounts of materials you would need and do the replacements accordingly. Of course, sometimes, you may have to remove the current roofing systems completely and install new ones. Among your tasks, installing vapor barriers or layers of insulation and roof ventilation are also key duties to carry out.
All the same, to make the roof waterproof, use shingles, asphalt, metal, or other materials. Apart from this, you would have to align roofing materials using edges. And you may do the necessary cutting in the roofing materials to allow for walls or vents. In addition, taking the right steps to prevent leakages of the roofing systems is also one of the main things that you must do.
Roofers also install green technology rooftop applications. Vegetative roofs, rainwater collection systems, and photovoltaic goods, such as solar shingles and solar tiles, are examples; however, solar photovoltaic (PV) installers are more likely to install PV panels. Solar thermal systems can also be installed by plumbers and heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration specialists in addition to roofers.
What is the Annual Income of a Roofer?
In order to get to know the annual income of a roofer, let us refer to the statistics of the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. In May 2020, the median yearly pay for roofers was $43,580. Half of the employees in this occupation earned more than that amount, while the other half earned less. The bottom 10% of earners made less than $27,220, while the top 10% earned more than $72,100.
The majority of roofers work full-time. Roofers may work extra to complete tasks during the busy summer months. This way, you have the ability to earn more than you would if you work under usual conditions. Apprentices often earn half of what journey workers get at the start of their careers. As an apprentice progresses through this career, their pay increases.
Work Environment of Roofers
Climbing, bending, kneeling, and heavy lifting are all part of the job for roofing workers. If you want to know how to be a roofer, bear in mind that you would have to do all these if you choose to proceed in this field. Roofers work outside in all kinds of weather, although they do not generally work while it is raining or snowing. Sometimes, you may have to work as a crew. And sometimes, you may have to work as a group.
Roofers have one of the greatest rates of occupational injuries and illnesses, as well as one of the worst rates of occupational deaths of any occupation. Scaffolds, ladders, and rooftops may all cause workers to slip and fall if you are not careful enough when you are working. Hot bitumen can also cause burns. During the summer, roofs can get excessively hot, resulting in heat-related diseases. To decrease the danger of injury, roofers must use adequate safety equipment. But there is actually nothing to worry about here. As long as you adhere to all the safety protocols, there is nothing for you to worry about.
We told you even in the previous part. Usually, roofers work full time. But if it is required, you will have to work more than the usual working hours.
Steps to be a Roofer
Up to now, we told you a great deal about the background of the profession that you are going to involve yourself in. And now, it is time we told you how to be a roofer. Mainly, here are the main steps you would have to follow.
- Get a high school diploma
- Learn the trade from a trade school
- Complete an apprenticeship program
- Get on-the-job training
- Earn the necessary licenses
- Advance as a professional
Of course, it is necessary to go through each of these steps. Let us take a look in detail.
1. Get a high school diploma
To begin virtually any career, high school graduation is usually necessary. Even if you will not receive any special training for the work, a high school diploma is typically necessary for employment. Regardless, no formal schooling is required to operate as a roofer. Nevertheless, in order to pursue a job through an apprenticeship program, you must first obtain a high school diploma.
You will have a fundamental understanding of the majority of academic areas if you graduate from high school with a high school diploma. Graduation from high school, in particular, indicates that you have a fundamental understanding of arithmetic, science, reading, and writing. You do not have to be an expert in any of these, though. All that is necessary is a working knowledge of them.
As we previously stated, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually necessary for those beginning an apprenticeship. Instead of a high school diploma, you can even go for a GED, or General Education Development test. It is also a legitimate qualification because it implies that you have the essential background knowledge.
Whatever the case is, it is basically necessary to have a high school diploma. Therefore, what we have to say is that you need to start with this step.
2. Learn the trade from a trade school
If you want to work as a roofer, you need to learn the trade. Completing some additional education will help you stand out from the competition. While there are not many trade schools that specialize in roofing, you may explore getting further training in construction management or another similar profession.
During your high school graduation, of course, you would not learn anything specific to this field. You would learn a lot of things. But none of them would be important for you to secure any proficiency any in your professional career. For this, you need to learn the trade from somewhere that teaches you the field. That is why attending a trade school is important.
3. Complete an apprenticeship program
During this period, you would be able to completely develop your trade skill. Most importantly, you would be able to learn from those who have mastered the trade and have a lot of experience and expertise. So there is no doubt that by pursuing an apprenticeship program, you will be able to perfect the skill.
Throughout the apprenticeship, however, you will not be able to perform the duties on your own. At all times, you will be under the direct supervision of senior employees. This is owing to the fact that there is no space for error in this sector. However, because you’re new here, there’s a potential you’ll make some mistakes. Of course, you may learn from your errors. When you make a mistake, though, someone should correct you because the project you are working on should be of professional quality.
Apprenticeship programs for roofers are sponsored by a few organizations, notably the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers & Allied Workers, and several contractor associations. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with technical education, with both often needing a set amount of hours.
4. Get on-the-job training
Most roofing businesses prioritize experience over education when hiring roofers. Management of a company may be more willing to hire you as a roofer if you have relevant roofing expertise. It is crucial to understand how to be a competent roofer and how to be safe when working at different heights. Employers in the sector respect roofers who will work to keep themselves and their team safe while also completing work on schedule and accurately to meet the project’s needs. This is the reason for on-the-job to be of immense importance.
5. Earn the necessary licenses
Each state may have different requirements for obtaining a roofer’s license, so you need to check with your state to discover what you would need to get licensed to work as a roofer. In most cases, you will need a specific number of hours of on-the-job training and experience, as well as the passing of a test administered by your state’s licensing board. While having a roofing license is not a requirement of all employers, it might help you get a job in this profession.
You may possess the requisite abilities. You could also know everything there is to know about the subject. However, if you are unable to show it, it will be an issue. Certifications are required to demonstrate that you have the necessary experience in a specific sector. It is for this reason that credentials are so crucial. Having these certifications, in any event, will help you to increase your earning potential. You would almost likely benefit from it.
For experienced roofers, the National Roofing Contractors Association offers certification. Roofing systems such as thermoplastic systems and asphalt shingles can be certified by experienced roofers. For experienced roofers, certification as a roofing foreman is also possible.
This is pretty much about gaining certifications. We believe that you have now understood how important it is to get certifications.
6. Advance as a professional
Alright. We have already explained how to be a roofer. You have learned everything there is to know about it now. Your life, on the other hand, does not come to an end here. As a professional, you must progress. It is possible that you’ll be able to achieve greater success in the future. You will only be able to succeed in your job if you continue to advance in your education.
Roofers who develop expertise in the field may be able to move to supervisor, work superintendent, or estimator positions, or even establish their own firm. Roofers who are members of a union can rise to become company managers, apprenticeship instructors, or other union leadership roles.
This way, you can advance in your profession little by little. Ultimately, you can surely get to a bug position. Indeed, you should probably go through these steps and advance to the top. Otherwise, there would be no use in engaging in this profession just for the sake of engaging in it.
Important Qualities you need to have
In fact, it is not merely the talent and the skills that you need to have in order to be successful as a roofer. You need to have certain important qualities. Let us get to know what they are.
- Ability to work at heights
- Attention to detail
- Balance
- Manual dexterity
- Math skills
- Physical stamina
- Physical strength
These are the important qualities that a roofer needs to have. Now, we are going to take a look at each of them in detail.
1. Ability to work at heights
In this industry, you would have to work on ladders, scaffolding, lifts, or stilts. Perhaps, you would already know this. Make sure you can work comfortably at heights before you indulge in this industry. If you do not, you are probably not the right person for this job. You will need to change occupations if you are unable to work at heights.
This is really significant. You cannot say no to a task that has been assigned to you. You must, in some way, complete it. What if you cannot work from a height? Of course, this would be a huge problem. Hence, you must guarantee that you are capable of working at heights.
If you suffer from vertigo or acrophobia, you should take this into account. There are two options available. One is that you can overcome your fear in some way. The second benefit is that you can consider a different career path. You are solely responsible for determining what is best for you.
Working at Height Paperback – May 1, 2001
This 164-page pocket-sized handbook is a fantastic resource for working at heights safely. This book even goes to great efforts to show how to function at the highest level possible. Roofers may have to work at heights. Therefore, this would be quite advantageous. This book is intended to provide you with a complete review of current techniques and equipment for safely and successfully working at height. Rather than being utilized alone, the book should be used in combination with official teaching.
2. Attention to detail
Another crucial characteristic of a roofer is the ability to pay close attention to every detail. Of course, roofers must pay special attention to every detail. The most basic considerations that you overlook are frequently the most important. Failure to consider them will almost certainly have a detrimental influence on the project’s final conclusion. Because of that, you must be able to pay close attention to the smallest of details.
Precision measurements are, without a doubt, critical. All of your other duties will be easier to do if you have those accurate measurements. Roofing materials must be placed to match design patterns accurately and to keep the roof watertight. This is something you must keep in mind.
Improve Attention To Detail: A straightforward system to develop attention to detail in yourself, employees, and across an organization. Paperback – April 17, 2019
As you undoubtedly know, paying attention to even the slightest detail is critical in a profession like this. We are certain that this book will be beneficial to you. This book is written by Chris Denny. In this book, you will find tips on how to improve your attention to detail. Because of that, we strongly advise you to read this book. The book’s readers are pleased with the content. This book has received great reviews on Amazon. So, you can rest confident that this will be an enjoyable read for you.
3. Balance
We emphasized that you should not experience vertigo in the part about being able to work at heights. What if you lose your equilibrium when standing at a high height? It would be a disaster if it happened.
If you think for a moment, the name of the profession that you are going to involve is with regard to roofs. So, unquestionably as roofers, there is no doubt that you need to be able to have balance when you are working at heights.
The Book Of Balance: Rehab Secrets To Improve Your Balance And Decrease Your Risk Of Falling. Kindle Edition
There is no denying that in a job like this, you need to have a balance at a good level. Of course, we informed you of this. Lex Ganzales is the author of this book. And we believe that if you are lacking in physical balance at work, this book will be quite beneficial to you.
4. Manual Dexterity
Dexterity refers to a person’s ability to do certain tasks with his or her hands. Workers in the roofing industry, of course, have a lot to do with their hands. In addition, roofers must use a range of hand tools throughout their operation. Because of all these, if you think your dexterity is lacking, we suggest you concentrate on improving it.
Exercises for Manual Dexterity of the Left Hand: Cello Closed and Open Hand Position Paperback – May 21, 2008
This book is written by Paul M. Fleury. This book has a nice layout and is easy to read. There are step-by-step directions for completing these exercises, including the precise speed at which they should be performed. This book is a fantastic place to start if you are looking for a way to improve your manual dexterity.
5. Math skills
As a roofer, you must take specific measures. If you do not understand the basics of math, you won’t be able to figure things out. As a result, specific math abilities are required. You need not, however, require a good understanding of mathematics. Having a basic understanding is actually sufficient.
However, as we told you, there is no reason to overcomplicate things with complex mathematical calculations. All you need to do is get a basic understanding. This would be more than enough to be precise in measuring and calculating areas of roofs.
Applied Construction Math Trainee Workbook, Paperback 1st Edition
You can utilize this trainee workbook if you feel you need to improve your math skills for your career. As previously said, basic math skills are quite important for specialists in this sector. And we feel that if you want to improve your math skills, this will be a great help.
6. Physical stamina
Stamina is the ability to maintain a high level of physical or mental activity for an extended amount of time. Working as a roofer involves a great deal of physical exertion. As a result, physical stamina is essential. Roofers spend a lot of time standing, kneeling, and bending in uncomfortable positions at work. And much of what you would have to do would be the same thing over and over again. As a result, even if you are physically fit, you may not be able to make it in this field. It is that important. So, if you believe your physical stamina is insufficient for this job, you must take the required steps to enhance it.
30 Minutes to Fitness: Strength & Stamina with Kelly Coffey-Meyer
If you want to enhance your physical stamina, this DVD by Kelly Coffey-Meyer is a great resource to use. This would not necessitate a lot of work on your part. It will take you only 30 minutes to finish. As a consequence, you will discover some techniques for boosting your physical stamina and strength if you refer to this. That is why we advise you to do so.
7. Physical strength
Roofers must be physically robust in addition to having physical stamina. Your abilities and capabilities in this job will be restricted if you lack physical strength. As previously indicated, this role will demand you to lift a variety of heavy materials. Being physically strong and powerful is essential. But how can you prevent this difficulty if you wish to work as a roofer? One of the most effective techniques for dealing with this issue is strength training. Strength training may certainly help with physical strength growth. This is really beneficial to your career.
Science and Practice of Strength Training Hardcover – April 9, 2020
Vladimir M. Zatsiorsky, William J. Kraemer, and Andrew C. Fry are the writers of this book. Roofers, as you are aware, demand a high level of physical fitness. This implies that you must be physically capable of doing your duties. This is an excellent book to read if you wish to improve your physical strength. It has also received positive reviews and ratings on Amazon.
Conclusion
The goal of this article was to describe how to be a roofer. And we think you will agree that this was a fascinating read. Of course, it is always with the proper guidance and advice one can excel in a particular field. And we think that we could guide you well. If you really want to, you can learn to be a plumber, electrician, mason, HVAC technician, ironworker, glazier, solar installer, boilermaker, painter, and other professions. We wish you the best of luck in your career!
