How to Become a Roofer: 5 Steps to Start Your Career

What is a roofer?

A roofer is the unsung hero of the construction industry—part craftsman, part problem-solver, and part daredevil. At its core, the job is about protecting homes and businesses from the elements, so everyone stays safe and dry.

Roofers work with precision, tackling anything from simple repairs to large installations. They bring structures to life with functional and durable roofing systems. There are two different types of roofing you can get started with:

1. Residential: Think family homes, townhouses, and even mansions. The work involves installing asphalt shingles, metal roofs, or tiles that blend style with practicality.
2. Commercial: These projects often deal with larger, flat-slope surfaces like office buildings and warehouses. Materials like TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) and EPDM (rubber roofing) are common here, offering durability and energy efficiency.

What does a roofer do?

A roofer’s job is a blend of hands-on work, customer interaction, and strategic problem-solving. From installing a brand-new roof to patching up storm damage, here’s a closer look at what roofers do:

• Install new roof systems: Putting on a new roof isn’t just about nailing down shingles. Roofers start by prepping the surface, laying down underlayment for waterproofing, and then carefully installing the chosen materials—whether it’s asphalt shingles, metal sheets, or clay tiles. A great installation is the first line of defense against rain, snow, and the hot sun.
• Patch, repair, and maintain: Roofers often tackle repairs, like fixing leaks or replacing damaged sections. Maintenance tasks, like clearing debris or sealing cracks, can extend a roof’s life and save homeowners from problems down the road.
• Install and maintain gutters: Roofers install and maintain gutter systems, so water doesn’t pool or cause damage. Clogged gutters can lead to rotting fascia or basement flooding, so this part of the job is more critical than you might think.
• Inspect and assess roof conditions: Roofers inspect roof conditions, identifying hidden problems like weakened supports or aging materials. This is where their expertise shines, spotting issues early to save property owners from costly repairs. When you become a roof inspector, you’ll be like a detective in the construction trade.
• Apply roofing materials: Part of the job is to help clients choose the best materials for their needs and budget, whether it’s eco-friendly shingles for a family home or durable metal for a commercial space. And then they apply those materials with precision.
• Install holiday lights: Roofers may even lend a hand with seasonal projects like installing holiday lights. It’s a natural extension of their work as they already have the skills and gear to climb safely.

Steps to become a roofer

Ready to roll up your sleeves and start a career that’s as challenging as it is rewarding?

Roofing isn’t just about climbing ladders and hammering nails—it’s about learning a craft, building something that lasts, and taking pride in it.Whether your goal is to become a roofer or take it a step further and start a contracting business, the path involves a mix of education and hands-on experience. Here are the steps to do it.

Essential skills for roofers

Roofing is more than just labor—it requires technical knowledge, the ability to solve problems, and physical stamina.

Here are the essential skills you need:

• Physical strength: You’ll need to carry heavy materials, climb ladders, and work long hours. Not to mention being under the sun. A strong level of fitness and stamina are important since roofing often involves repetitive tasks that can take hours or even days to complete.
• Balance and coordination: Roofers work at heights, which means you need balance and coordination. Whether you’re walking on a sloped roof or carefully placing materials, maintaining stability is critical for safety. These skills will help you avoid accidents and do your job without hesitation.
• Attention to detail: Roofing involves many small details, like aligning shingles correctly, ensuring watertight seals, and inspecting structures for potential issues. Having attention to detail makes you a reliable professional in the eyes of clients and employers.
• Problem-solving skills: From unexpected weather changes to structural issues, you’ll need to solve problems to keep projects on track. Being resourceful and thinking on your feet (literally) will help you handle challenges without compromising the quality of your work.
• Math and measurement skills: Roofing requires a solid grasp of basic math to calculate measurements, estimate materials, and determine angles. Whether you’re measuring a roof’s pitch or figuring out how much shingle coverage you’ll need, an accurate calculation can make or break a project.
• Communication skills: Roofing projects are rarely solo jobs. You’ll likely work as part of a crew, which means you need to communicate and collaborate. Whether you’re discussing project timelines or safety protocols, good communication helps the job run smoothly.
• Knowledge of tools and materials: To become a roofer, you’ll need to get familiar with various tools and materials in the trade. From nail guns to shingles, understanding how to use the right tools and materials for each job is essential.

READ MORE: 34 roofing tools you need

Roofer salary and career outlook

Here’s what you can expect to earn and where this career might take you.

Roofers in the United States earn an average annual salary of $40,012. This translates to about $19.24 per hour.

Starting out, entry-level roofers are earning between $32,574 and $36,119 per year.

With experience, your salary can rise. Seasoned professionals can earn up to $49,187 annually.

Career advancement opportunities

A career in roofing doesn’t have to stop at being a roofer. There are numerous paths you can take to expand your skill set and earning potential.

Here’s what advancing in the roofing industry might look like:

• Gaining specialized skills: If you develop expertise in specific areas—such as working with unique materials like slate or solar panels—you can position yourself as a specialist. This also opens up opportunities for higher-paying projects.
• Moving into leadership roles: Experienced roofers often advance to foreman or supervisor positions. These roles involve overseeing crews, managing projects, and ensuring work is completed safely and efficiently. Leadership positions can serve as a stepping stone to even more significant responsibilities.
• Starting your own business: Many roofers transition into becoming a roofing contractor. This involves managing your own company, hiring a team, and handling business operations like client acquisition. As a contractor, you’ll have the chance to grow your business and build a brand.
• Transitioning to related fields: Some roofers leverage their hands-on experience to transition into related industries like construction management, project planning, or building inspection. This type of move allows you to expand your career while still making use of your roofing knowledge.

READ MORE: How to start a roofing company

Tips for success in the roofing industry

Roofing is a career that can stand the test of time (and weather). Whether you’re just starting out or already laying the foundation of your career, here are some tips to help you thrive:

• Keep learning: In roofing, you don’t just learn it once and you’re done. New materials, techniques, and safety standards are always emerging. Consider attending workshops, earning certifications, or joining professional organizations like the NRCA.
• Network like a pro: It’s not just what you know—it’s who you know. Build relationships with fellow roofers and suppliers to land better jobs and learn new tricks of the trade. Go to industry events or simply take time to connect with colleagues.
• Stay ahead of trends: As green building practices and energy-efficient roofing solutions rise in popularity, being an early adopter can set you apart. Telling clients that you’re skilled in installing solar roofs or sustainable materials is a selling point.
• Prioritize safety: Investing in proper safety gear and following OSHA roofing standards will protect yourself and your crew. Developing a reputation for safe work practices can help clients trust you.
• Work on your customer service skills: Being skilled with a hammer is great, but being skilled with people is how you build a loyal client base. Explain your work to homeowners and keep an open line of communication.
• Take care of your body: Roofing is tough on the body. Stretch before work and stay hydrated. Wear supportive gear to protect your knees and back.