Roofers West Chester PA build and repair roofs using one or more kinds of materials. They may specialize in either low-slope or steep-slope roofs, and some work with both shingles and metal.

They must be comfortable working at heights and in tight spaces. They often use ladders and scaffolding to access the roof surface. Roofers wear clothing that protects them from environmental conditions and worksite accidents.
Roofers work outdoors, and their job is physically demanding. It involves heavy lifting as well as climbing, bending, and kneeling. They often work in extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or hot temperatures. They may be exposed to harmful materials, including chemicals used in coatings, and they are at risk of falls from scaffolding or ladders, burns from roofing surfaces, or heat-related illnesses. Although the work is strenuous, most roofers enjoy the sense of accomplishment it provides.
Some roofers enter the occupation through an apprenticeship program, which typically lasts about a year. Others receive on-the-job training from more experienced roofers. A high school diploma is usually required to become a roofer. In addition to general knowledge of construction and building materials, roofers need specific skills related to roofing and installing shingles.
They use tools such as roofing shovels, pry bars, hammers, and drills to remove or install new roofing systems. They also need to be able to read blueprints and other technical documents, as well as understand how to properly install flashing, underlayment, ridge vents, and chimney caps.
Roofers are employed in the construction industry and must be able to work as part of a team. They must have excellent communication skills to relay instructions to other workers and explain the details of a project to customers. Some roofers also use their skills to help other tradespeople with wall and window installation, siding, and painting.
People who choose to be roofers generally have strong realistic interests. They like to work with plants, animals, and real-world materials. They prefer jobs that are hands-on and have a practical, problem-solving nature. In addition, they have moderate interest in support and moderate interest in working conditions.
Roofers must be dependable and self-controlled to succeed in the profession. They are likely to wake up early and make sure they get to work on time. The job is not easy, especially when the weather is bad, and they must be able to maintain their focus even in challenging circumstances. They must be careful not to leave the job site unattended and should always wear protective gear, such as hard hats and eye protection.
Job Duties
Roofers install, repair, and replace roofs for commercial and residential buildings. They may work as part of a roofing crew or as independent contractors. Some have formal training, such as completing a roofing apprenticeship under the guidance of a journeyman roofer. Others learn on the job and may also take high school, college, or industry courses related to roofing or shingling. Those who wish to become certified in their trade can take the Interprovincial Exam to earn the Red Seal, which allows them to work across Canada.
Roofers use a variety of tools and materials to perform their job duties. They must be able to work at heights and follow safety protocols. They often interact with clients, so excellent customer service skills are important. They may also need to work with other construction professionals, such as carpenters and plumbers.
A typical workday for a roofer or shingler begins with inspecting the roof to determine its condition and any potential issues. Then, they prepare and lay the appropriate roofing materials. For example, they might lay asphalt shingles on flat roofs and tile, slate, metal, or solar shingles on sloped roofs. They might also apply waterproof membranes to foundations, decks, and basements.
Other duties include removing old roofs and flashings and preparing the surface for new shingles. They might also install gutters and downspouts and clear drains and sumps. They might also assist journeymen roofers with repairs or replacements of damaged parts and components.
Because they are frequently working on other people’s property, roofers must be careful not to damage items or leave a mess behind when they are done with their work. They should be familiar with all local building codes and regulations. They must also be competent at using hand and power tools, such as hammers, shears, roofing hatchets, and nail guns.
Some roofers focus on residential roofs, while others work on commercial ones. Some may specialize in a certain type of roof, such as thatching. If a client wants to replace traditional thatching on a period building, for example, they will need a roofer who has experience in this area.
Requirements
Roofers must be comfortable working this physically demanding job at high elevations and with a wide range of materials. They also need to be able to work well as part of a team. Many people choose to attend a trade school or complete an apprenticeship to learn the skills required for a career as a roofer.
Many states require that roofers hold a state license or registration. To obtain a roofing contractor’s license, applicants typically need to pass an exam and demonstrate past experience in the trade. They must also have general liability insurance and, in some instances, provide a bond.
In addition to a state license, some roofers may need to obtain local or municipal licensing requirements. For example, in Nebraska, a roofer must register with the State Department of Labor and possess a residential roofer license or a commercial roofer registration.
Roofing contractors need to be able to work safely and effectively in all weather conditions. They must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients, suppliers, and other members of the crew.
A successful roofer must be able to follow directions precisely and possess strong attention to detail. They must also be able to handle heavy materials and have the physical strength to climb ladders and scaffolding.
Roofers are at risk for heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. They can avoid these health hazards by drinking plenty of water, taking frequent breaks, and wearing light-colored, breathable clothing. They must also be careful not to overload themselves with equipment and materials. For example, a five-gallon bucket of roof coating can weigh 80 pounds or more.
Training
Roofers install and repair the tops of various structures, including residential homes, commercial buildings, and other large structures. They are skilled in working with a variety of roofing materials, and they must be comfortable climbing ladders and scaffolding to access the various levels of a structure’s roof. In addition to these basic skills, roofers must be familiar with state and local building codes and regulations.
A roofer may choose to pursue a formal education in order to learn the necessary skills for the trade. However, most learn the trade through on-the-job training. Beginners typically start out as assistants and work under the supervision of experienced roofers to gain skills and knowledge. Some also take part in apprenticeship programs, which combine on-the-job experience with classroom instruction and last 4 to 5 years.
Some roofers also choose to attend a trade school in order to receive specialized training for particular roofing types or to become certified as master roof inspectors. While these formal educational opportunities are not required for a career as a roofer, they can enhance a resume and make it easier for a prospective employer to identify the right candidate for the job.
In many cases, roofers are employed by construction companies and must complete a certain amount of on-the-job training in order to be considered for a promotion to foreman or journeyman status on the crew. They may also be able to advance their careers by starting their own roofing construction company after gaining several years of experience.
Other roofers work as contractors, independently completing roofing projects on their own or for clients. These workers often have a wider range of responsibilities than those who work for construction companies and may be responsible for bidding on projects, hiring subcontractors, and performing inspections. In addition, some contractors may specialize in particular kinds of roofing, such as flat roofs or green roofs. This can increase their earning potential and help them find more lucrative opportunities. Lastly, some roofers work in industrial settings and must adhere to specialized safety protocols in these environments.