WHAT DO ROOFERS DO?
Good with tools? Not afraid of heights? Make it to the top by becoming a roofer. Roofers work on houses and buildings to build, maintain and repair roofs. They use a variety of tools and materials to get the job done and depending on the type of roof, including asphalt, galvanized steel, and shingles.
Roofing is a craft that takes time and balance. Roofers must be able to align the shingles or other materials properly in order to protect the house from weather like wind, rain and snow. Roofers may need to inspect damage on roofs, estimate costs and materials to fix or build a roof, install insulation or vapor barriers, cut materials to fit corners and against walls, and seal everything to avoid leaks. Other roofs may need to be covered in tar and gravel to protect it from the elements.
HOW MUCH DO ROOFERS MAKE?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that in 2010, roofers made a median hourly pay of $16.45, or $34,220 a year.
WHAT ARE THE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS?
There are no education requirements for roofers, and most training is done on the job. Apprenticeships are available from unions, contractor associations and similar. Typically, to qualify for the program you must be at least 18, have a high school diploma and be physically able.
JOB SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Balance: Roofers work on roofs, which might have very steep pitches. Balance is crucial to the job and a roofer's safety.
- Strength: Roofers need to be able to carry heavy materials, like bundles of shingles, up ladders and onto roofs.
- Stamina: Roofers spend most of their day on their feet outside, sometimes during intense heat or cold.
- No Fear of Heights: Roofs can be very high. Roofers need to be steady and unafraid of being in high places.
THE FUTURE OF ROOFERS
Roofing jobs will grow about as fast as most jobs in the United States between 2010 and 2020, according to the BLS.
