Whether you need a career change or are trying to decide what path fits you, roofing offers opportunities as well as stable and reliable work. If you don’t mind working hard in residential, commercial and industrial settings, then roofing could be the perfect fit for you.
Working as a Roofer
As a roofer, you will repair, maintain and install roofing systems on a wide assortment of buildings. You will also work with a large variety of materials including slate, clay, wood shingles, tiles, metal roofing, and rubber. Your job location will vary from day to day, so you will need to be comfortable working in any weather condition. You will also need to understand how different materials work in different environments, so you can best decide what roofing systems should be applied.
The installation of a new roof involves you first putting a decking down which is made of thick plywood. You then lay a layer of felt down which will help you keep your footing during installation. Attention to detail is the most important aspect of roofing because a poorly installed or repaired roof can cause expensive damage, inside and outside the building. As a roofer, you will also have the knowledge and training for installing vents, ducts, skylights, and in some cases, solar panels.
What You Need to Become a Roofer
Most roofers will learn through on-the-job training. You should contact a roofing company that offers apprenticeship programs to get started. This way you can learn methods and skills by working real jobs, as well as taking courses for certifications. Working real jobs as you train helps you get hands-on experience with all materials, tools and roofing systems. Safety training also comes as part of the program which is essential for any roofer. During the programs and training, you need to pay close attention to materials and tools, so you know what to use for every situation. Every roofing project will be different so you need to be familiar with and prepared for every possible situation. This will allow you to provide a wider variety of services, which will lead to a fuller and more productive career.
Roofing requires a lot of labor and physical demands, so you need to be in good shape. Having a good sense of balance is beneficial as you will be on rooftops for most of your day. Concentration is key because attention to detail is a must for all roofing jobs. You need to be able to perform under pressure as well as any potential weather conditions, without losing focus or detail. It is also important that you can work both independently as well as part of a team.
Roofing in the Future
Roofing jobs are expected to increase by 13 percent over the next decade, according to the US Department of Labor, which is much faster than other trade positions. As the economy grows, more buildings are built and they need roofing. Roofing is also worn down by the environment much faster than other components of a building, so repairs and maintenance are a constant necessity. All this means that roofing careers offer longevity and stability.
Many roofers leave their jobs to work in construction or after completing a long run, so new job opportunities are always opening up. When it comes to looking for work as a roofer, the best times are during spring and summer months, when hiring will be more lucrative. A career in roofing can be rewarding as well as challenging and it will definitely keep your busy and satisfied for years to come. Contact us today to discuss available roofer opportunities.