You’ll need specialized training if you want to work as a roofer. You must complete an apprenticeship program in order to be qualified for this type of work. The program equips people who want to work in this field with the knowledge and skills they need to install roofing products and repair existing structures.
Roofers who are fully licensed have been trained to work on a variety of projects. Roofing contractors work on homes to install shingles. They also look for water, wind, and hail damage. Commercial roofers work on buildings that house businesses.
The ability to read blueprints is an important skill for a roofer. As part of their job, roofers must be able to use a hammer and other hand tools. Before work can begin, the job may require delivering or lifting materials to the roof area. For this type of work, good communication skills and the ability to work well in a team are also required.
Anyone considering a career as a roofer should not be afraid of heights. He or she must be at ease working in a space that is high above the ground and at different angles. Some roof surfaces are steeply angled, requiring the worker to be able to focus on the task at hand.
A three-year apprenticeship program for a roofer is required. To be licensed to do this type of work, the trainee must complete 4,000 hours of training. The program consists of both classroom and on-the-job training. An experienced roofer supervises the apprentice’s work while he or she is learning on the job.
After completing the apprenticeship program, the apprentice must pass a written exam to become a licensed roofer. A qualified roofer might be able to work for a roofing contractor or a construction company. Some roofers are members of a union and are hired for available projects from union halls. After gaining some experience on the job, the individual may want to start his own roofing contracting company and hire employees.
Roofing is a seasonal job, and anyone who chooses to make a living doing it will be very busy during the summer. Because they cannot work in wet or windy conditions, they may be unable to work during the summer. Roofers can still find work doing repairs for customers even when new construction is slow.