Roofer

As a roofer, you will install, repair, and replace flat roofs, shingles, shakes and other roofing materials on residential, commercial and industrial buildings. You will prepare roof surfaces, lay out work areas and complete repairs and installations using precise, hands-on techniques, either independently or as part of a crew.

Does this sound like you?

You're comfortable working in confined spaces and at heights.

You have mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.

You're able to identify and respond to dangerous situations.

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Typical responsibilities

Read blueprints, drawings and specifications to plan roofing work
Estimate material requirements, order supplies and prepare cost quotations
Install and repair single-ply roofing systems, shingles, shakes and other roofing materials
Install sheet metal components, including flashings and related details
Apply waterproof and protective coatings to concrete and other masonry surfaces
Set up and use scaffolding, hand and power tools, hoisting and rigging equipment

Common skills you need for the trades

Math

Math is used across the skilled trades. You may work with decimals, fractions, measurements, conversions, area and volume to plan work, calculate materials, monitor operations and troubleshoot.

Reading

Strong reading skills help you work safely and effectively on the job. You’ll use them to understand instructions, equipment manuals, safety information, drawings and other technical information.

Science

Basic science principles help you understand how things work and how materials behave. Across the trades, this can include concepts like electricity, heat, force, pressure and the properties of different materials.

We’re here to help you get there

Need to brush up on math, reading, science or more? We’ve got you covered. Unlock interactive learning modules that meet you where you are and help you build a solid foundation.

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