Anderson Roofing and Exteriors replace roofs; they are also known as roofing contractors or roof mechanics. They are a highly specialized tradesperson who usually works with a team.
Typical job duties include collaborating with other construction professionals and communicating with customers. They also meet with management and salespeople to discuss marketing, supplies, accounting, and safety items.
A roofer professionally builds, inspects, repairs, and replaces residential and commercial roofs. They also install structures attached to or above roofs, such as chimneys and ventilation systems. This job requires heavy lifting and frequent travel to different job sites. Roofers can work independently or with other construction tradesmen and must be able to follow instructions from their supervisors. They must be able to read blueprints, estimate materials and time requirements for each project, and complete all work under local building codes. They must also be able to operate and maintain roofing equipment, including ladders and scaffolding.
A typical roofer’s day-to-day tasks include tearing off existing shingles and inspecting the roof sheathing for damage. They may also bind, seal, and insulate openings on roofs. They also resurface roofs using plaster, cement, asphalt and tar. Other duties include repairing the sheathing and flashing, installing skylights and vents, and removing snow from roofs.
These professionals usually spend 80% of their time on the roof, working with tools and materials. They typically start their days with a safety talk and attend monthly meetings with their supervisors and salespeople.
They must also maintain a professional appearance, demonstrating the company’s values and adhering to its code of ethics. The job also involves standing in wet, muddy, and dusty conditions.
The job responsibilities section of the roofer’s resume should list chief duties and specific day-to-day responsibilities to attract qualified candidates and deter unqualified ones successfully. This section should begin with dynamic action words, such as perform, manage, and install, to help job seekers imagine themselves in the role. A good job description should also provide information on the position’s required qualifications, training, and work environment. This will increase the likelihood that you will receive quality applications from skilled and motivated job seekers. It will also help you avoid wasting time interviewing incompatible candidates. You should also include your salary expectations, if applicable. This will help you negotiate the best salary for your position. You should also list any previous roofing experience, if applicable.
Many roofers work as part of a team; cooperation can be key to success. This means listening to instructions and communicating clearly. It also includes being dependably present at work and meeting commitments.
Asbestos and other construction dust can cause lung problems such as silicosis, lung or nasal cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These hazards can be reduced by using appropriate controls.
Bitumen and other flammable substances used in roofing may produce fumes with polyaromatic hydrocarbons/particulates that irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. They can also cause burns. These risks can be minimized by following the Dangerous Substances Regulations 2002 and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.
Roofing can involve repetitive actions and prolonged periods of standing. This can cause musculoskeletal disorders such as repetitive strain injury (RSI) or back pain, for example. This can be prevented by changing body positions regularly and taking regular breaks. Using the correct tools and materials also reduces the risk of accidents and the need for PPE. This can be done by reading manufacturers’ Safety Data Sheets and maintaining proper working practices. It also includes wearing appropriate clothing and using PPE to protect against falling objects and electrical shock.
Roofers ensure indoor spaces remain sheltered from the elements. They install and repair roofs on homes, schools, and hospitals. This is an in-demand job for people with good hand-eye coordination and who can follow technical plans. Other qualifications include physical strength, stamina, and balancing skills. Those wanting to become roofers should earn a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a trade school course or apprenticeship program.
Apprenticeship programs last two to five years and provide on-the-job training and classroom instruction in subjects like tools, materials, and arithmetic. They also teach how to dampproof and waterproof walls. These programs may require applicants to join a union, which entails additional costs and adherence to strict work rules.
Those unable to complete an apprenticeship program can train by working as helpers or laborers. In this path, experienced roofers instruct new workers on the various aspects of roofing and help them learn the skills needed for the job. This route offers the least educational requirements, but a high school diploma or GED is beneficial. High school courses in mathematics can be useful for aspiring roofers, who often measure buildings to determine the amount of materials required.
Once a roofer becomes skilled, he can seek employment with larger companies or become a self-employed contractor. Larger roofing companies typically provide extensive training and room for advancement to supervisory positions. Those who prefer to train independently can find many online and in-person courses. Many of these programs are accredited by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Those who pursue accreditation from NRCA will benefit from having a recognized industry certification.
The average salary for a roofer is $52,142. However, some cities pay above the national average.
Some areas, such as those around chimneys, require special consideration and have specific flashing requirements. These are often the most vulnerable areas for water leaks and penetration. They also tend to be more challenging to install correctly because of the steep slopes of these features. Regardless of the flashing, using a two-part system is usually best. This consists of base flashing, installed at the lowest point of the roof slope, and counter-flashing, which is then run up to cover the base flashing.
The flashing is often placed with silicone or other waterproof sealants to remain watertight. If the silicone becomes damaged, it can be replaced by a new application of the same material. However, it is important to remember that flashing must be inspected frequently for signs of damage or wear. This includes identifying any holes or gaps in the flashing, which should be repaired immediately to prevent further leaks and possible structural damage.
Roofers are skilled craftsmen who specialize in constructing, repairing, and maintaining roofs. They use various roofing materials to ensure buildings are structurally sound and weatherproof. Without roofers, buildings would be vulnerable to leaks and other environmental damage. Roofers may work on residential, commercial, or industrial structures.
Generally speaking, roofers are employed by construction companies. They work with a team of other construction professionals, including carpenters and electricians, to complete building projects. In addition to working on roofs, they may install skylights, gutter systems, and insulation. Depending on the type of job, they can also perform repairs on walls and other parts of the structure.
There are several different types of roofers, each with their specialties. Some focus on installing new roofs, while others work on existing ones. Some roofers work exclusively on residential homes, while others specialize in commercial or industrial buildings. Regardless of their specialty, all roofers must be adept at climbing and working on ladders. They must also be able to handle heavy materials and tools and navigate complex scaffolding systems.
The most common types of roofers are shingle roofers, flat roofers, and tile roofers. Shingle roofers are responsible for installing shingles, which are small, square pieces of material that are nailed to the top of the building. Flat roofers are experienced in working with low-sloped roofs, which are more common on commercial and some residential structures. Tile roofers are skilled in working with natural or synthetic slate, clay, or concrete tiles.
Those who wish to become roofers can pursue occupational training programs, apprenticeships, or college degrees in construction management. They can also learn the trade through on-the-job experience with a reputable contractor. Once qualified, they can apply for a blue-skill worker CSCS card to work on construction sites. While many roofers are self-employed, some work with specialized roofing companies offering comprehensive maintenance and repair services. These companies can be a good option for homeowners looking to repair or replace their roofs quickly and affordably.
