What does a Roofer do?

If your company operates in the construction industry, a skilled Roofer is essential to your success. Roofers interact with customers on a daily basis, so they contribute to your firm’s reputation and make it possible to take on much larger projects. In addition to installing, maintaining and repairing roofs, Roofers typically conduct inspections after heavy storms, prepare estimates for potential customers, address critical safety issues and transport materials to each job site. All of these activities help an organization generate revenue and reach more customers.

Roofer skills and qualifications

A successful Roofer must have several skills and qualifications to perform their job duties safely. One of the most important is the ability to work at great heights. Roofers must also be able to climb ladders and maintain their balance while carrying heavy materials across various roofing surfaces.

The ability to use hand tools and power tools is another important aspect of the Roofer job description. For example, a Roofer may use hammers, automatic nail guns, tin snips, pry bars and utility knives. A Roofer should also have these skills and qualifications:

• Basic math skills to calculate the slope of a roof and determine how much material to order for each job

• Manual dexterity

• Physical strength for climbing, carrying heavy materials, kneeling, bending and performing other activities

• Attention to detail

• Knowledge of local building codes and best practices in roofing

Roofer experience requirements

Roofers mainly gain experience on-the-job. When looking at a Roofer’s qualifications, consider reviewing their formal on-the-job training and any apprenticeships they may have completed. Both are strong indicators of real-world experience and can provide candidates with skills that are applicable to many roofing scenarios.

Roofer education and training requirements

There are generally no formal education requirements for Roofers. In some cases, Roofers with more experience may hold certifications in various roofing systems, such as asphalt shingles. Some employers may require Roofers to have certifications, including one that meets Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. Always check your state’s requirements before hiring a Roofer.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this roofing job description isn’t an exact match for your needs, review the samples below to see if one of them is a better fit:

• General Contractor
• Carpenter

Roofer job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Roofer and a Carpenter?

The main difference between a Roofer and a Carpenter is that Carpenters work with wood while Roofers work with shingles, slate tiles and other roofing materials. Additionally, Carpenters typically work indoors. Roofers must climb up on roofs and work in all types of weather conditions. The jobs do share some similarities, however. For example, Carpenters and Roofers both use hand tools and power tools to complete their tasks.

Do Roofers use computers on the job?

Roofers spend most of their time installing, maintaining and repairing roofs, but they may have to work with computers when preparing estimates or communicating with customers via email.

What kind of license do Roofers need?

The licensing requirements vary from one state to the next. However, many employers may require a Roofer to hold a valid driver’s license to move between different job sites. To attract applicants who meet the minimum requirements for your job, be sure to include licensing requirements in your Roofer job description.