Career Definition of a Professional Roofer
Roofers specialize in the construction and weatherproofing of roofs on homes and other buildings. Roofers are responsible for installing the frame of a roof, which includes the beams, rafters and trusses. After installing the frame, the roof can be covered with wood, aluminum, slate or asphalt and shingles. A roof is finished after a roofer sprays the top, sidings and walls with materials to seal, bind and insulate the roof and protect it from inclement weather.
| Education | 3-year apprenticeship including classroom and hands-on learning |
| Job Skills | Carpentry abilities, good balance and physical fitness |
| Median Salary (2018)* | $39,970 |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026)* | 11% increase in employment opportunities |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Educational Requirements
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), roofers gain their education through 3-year apprentice programs, which are provided by local roofers' unions. Prospective roofers are required to complete at least 144 hours a year in classroom training and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. While in the classroom, students will learn about tools, safety and construction. They will also work on job sites under the tutelage of more experienced roofers.
Skills Required
It is essential that roofers are not scared of heights and have terrific balance, as well as good carpentry skills. Because of the physical labor involved in roofing, it's important to be in great physical condition. Any experience with metal-working can prove beneficial in helping prospective roofers install metal roofing and will give a competitive advantage over the competition.
Career and Economic Outlook for Roofing
The BLS reports that career opportunities for roofers are expected to increase by 11% between 2016-2026, because of the rate in which roofs deteriorate and need to be replaced or fixed. In May 2018, the median yearly wage for roofers was $39,970, according to BLS figures.
Alternate Career Options
Other careers to consider that are similar to roofing include:
Carpenter
High school graduates can learn their carpentry skills through apprenticeship programs or while on the job. Carpenters build and repair structures like door frames, rafters and stairways, in addition to installing cupboards, drywall and siding. The BLS projected average employment growth of 8% for these professionals from 2016-2026 and reported an annual median salary of $45,170 in 2017.
Construction Laborer and Helper
Usually learning their skills on the job, construction laborers fulfill a wide variety of tasks on construction sites, while helpers often work alongside and assist specific types of craftspeople, learning the skills of carpenters or electricians, for example. The median annual wage in 2017, according to the BLS, was $33,450, overall, with the construction laborers earning the top salaries. A faster-than-average job growth of 12% was forecast from 2016-2026, per the BLS.
