Canton Roofer can be self-employed, run their own roofing business, or work for a large roofing company. Regardless of their specific business model, most roofers spend the majority of their time on jobsites and must have good interpersonal skills.
Service roofers focus on meeting the needs of customers. Their sales presentations can be lengthy and are often highly rehearsed. These roofers usually offer multiple options and are able to negotiate pricing.
Roofers are responsible for the construction, repair, and replacement of roofs on commercial and residential buildings. They also install and repair skylight windows, chimneys, and vents on rooftops. Some roofers may specialize in a particular type of roofing material. They often work closely with other construction workers, including drywallers, plumbers, and pipe fitters. Some roofers may also be responsible for negotiating contracts and providing customer service.
Most roofers have a high school diploma or equivalent, and many receive on-the-job training. Some may complete a formal apprenticeship program that includes classroom instruction and fieldwork. Roofers must follow local building codes and safety procedures. They must have physical strength, good balance, and hand-eye coordination to perform their duties safely. They must be able to read blueprints and diagrams to follow instructions.
The daily duties of a roofer can vary depending on the climate and the needs of each job. For example, in the winter, a roofer might stay on the job to train with coworkers or perform preventative maintenance to keep the company’s trucks and equipment running smoothly. Some roofers might have additional management responsibilities, such as hiring and overseeing other roofing contractors and working with salespeople to ensure that the company meets its sales targets.
A job description for a roofer should include information about the types of projects that the person will be assigned and the required skills to do those tasks. It should also mention any special requirements, such as the ability to work at heights or in inclement weather. The job description should also list the salary and benefits that the person will be expected to earn.
During the interview process, it is important for the potential employer to ask the roofer about their career aspirations and whether they see themselves growing into a supervisory role within the company. This will help them understand whether the applicant is committed to the roofing industry and is likely to stay in the job for a long period of time. It can also help the employer determine if the candidate is the right fit for the company’s culture and values.
Job Requirements
Roofers build, inspect, repair, replace and maintain residential or commercial roofing systems. They help clients choose materials and provide estimates for their services. In some states, Roofers need a license to work on roofs. They also need to know building codes and follow all safety procedures. A successful Roofer is able to sustain good working relationships with clients and other contractors, and can guarantee that all safety standards are followed at all times.
A high school diploma is the minimum requirement for a roofer to begin this career. On-the-job training is typically provided by employers for new roofers. Experienced roofers may advance to become a supervisor or job superintendent or start their own roofing company. Those who work for unions may also be able to advance through the ranks to become a business manager or apprenticeship instructor.
Besides being skilled at laying shingles and other types of roofing, a Roofer needs to be physically fit to perform the duties of the position. They must be able to climb and descend ladders on a regular basis throughout the day, as well as work in extreme weather conditions. Similarly, they need to be comfortable using hand tools for extended periods of time. In order to prevent injuries, a Roofer must wear steel-toed shoes and long pants with reenforced knees.
Roofers also need to understand and read blueprints and diagrams in order to complete their jobs. This requires excellent spatial perception and precision. They must also be able to cut and measure accurately, as well as fit materials around chimneys, vents and other rooftop elements. In addition, a Roofer should be able to identify and repair problems such as leaks and rotted areas of the roof.
As a Roofer, you will need to manage the supply of materials and equipment, as well as accounting tasks such as payroll and taxes. You will also need to negotiate contracts with suppliers and vendors in order to get the best prices on your supplies. Lastly, you will need to attend meetings with management, salespeople and other employees to discuss the progress of each project.
Training Requirements
Roofers install and repair the roofing systems that keep indoor spaces safe, secure, and comfortable. They often work at high heights and need to be able to follow detailed technical plans. They also need physical fitness, hand-eye coordination, and excellent teamwork skills. Those interested in becoming roofers can earn a high school diploma or equivalent and attend a trade school or apprenticeship to learn the skills of the trade. They can also pursue certifications to advance in their career.
Many states have state-accredited roofing-supervisor training programs. These typically include a 5-day course on the subjects required by the EPA Model Accreditation Plan (MAP) but do not specifically address roofing operations or techniques. The NRCA has received concerns that the “correction” to MAP may be interpreted as disqualifying such trade-specific supervisor training. Moreover, the correction could potentially prevent state-accredited programs from receiving funding for asbestos abatement and could require supervisor training to be conducted exclusively by an accrediting agency and its employees. This would substantially increase the cost of these programs. In order to obtain a license to perform work as a roofer, candidates must meet education and experience requirements, pass an examination, submit required documentation, and provide proof of insurance.
Work Environment
Roofers work in a variety of weather conditions. They must be comfortable working with a large selection of materials, including wood, asphalt, tar, caulk and sheet metal. They must also be able to read blueprints and understand math to calculate precisely the amount of materials needed for each job.
Advances in technology are improving workplace safety. Drones are used for roof inspections, and virtual reality (VR) training is a great way to safely reenact dangerous situations without risking employee injury. Sadly, some employers still cut corners and put profit above worker safety. When they get caught, the fines can be staggering.