Roofer

What is a roofer?

A roofer is someone who installs and repairs roofs on buildings.

What does a roofer do?

Usually, a roofer does the following:

• Inspects roofs to identify any damages or areas in need of repair
• Measures and cuts materials such as shingles or tiles to fit the roof
• Removes old or damaged roofing materials
• Installs new roofing materials, such as shingles, tiles, or metal sheets
• Repairs or replaces damaged roofs
• Applies waterproof coatings or sealants to protect the roof from damage

What does the day-to-day life of a roofer look like?

A roofer usually works between 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, but this can vary depending on the weather and the specific project. Here are some tasks that a roofer might do:

• Check the weather forecast to determine if it's safe to work on the roof
• Set up safety equipment, such as harnesses and scaffolding, before starting work
• Remove old or damaged roofing materials using tools like hammers and pry bars
• Measure and cut new roofing materials to fit the roof
• Install the new materials, using nails, screws, or adhesives
• Ensure that the roof is properly sealed and weatherproof

Where does a roofer work?

Roofers can work for roofing companies, construction firms, or be self-employed. They can also work on residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. Location can vary depending on where the projects are, but roofers are needed all over the United Kingdom.

What tools/equipment does a roofer use? (Don't mention those not relevant to the job)

A roofer uses a variety of tools and equipment, including:

• Roofing materials: Shingles, tiles, metal sheets, and other materials used for roof installation and repair.
• Safety equipment: Harnesses, safety lines, and hardhats to ensure safety while working at heights.
• Hand tools: Hammers, pry bars, utility knives, and roofing nailers for removing old materials and installing new ones.
• Power tools: Angle grinders, circular saws, and drills for cutting and shaping roofing materials.
• Ladders and scaffolding: To access rooftops safely.

What do I need to become a roofer?

To become a roofer, you have a few options:

• Apprenticeship: You can start as an apprentice and learn on the job while also attending training sessions.
• Vocational qualification: You can obtain a vocational qualification such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Roofing Occupations to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
• Experience: Some roofers start as general construction workers and gain experience before specializing in roofing.
• Health and safety certification: It's important to have health and safety certifications, such as the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.

What career paths are available?

There are a number of career paths available to roofers, including:

• Roofing Supervisor: With experience and additional training, you can become a supervisor and oversee roofing projects. This may involve managing teams, coordinating schedules, and ensuring quality workmanship.
• Roofing Contractor: After gaining experience and knowledge, you may choose to start your own roofing company and take on various roofing projects independently.
• Roofing Inspector: With further education and certifications, you could work as a roofing inspector, ensuring that roofs meet safety standards and regulations.

What jobs are similar to a roofer? (Include those with transferable skills that a roofer usually has)

• Carpenter: Roofers often work with wood and may acquire carpentry skills during their career.
• Construction Worker: Roofers often work alongside other construction workers and may have transferable skills in general construction.

What made you want to become a roofer?

How did you get your first roofing job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a roofer?

Are you a roofer? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to roofing. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.