roofer

While the roles depend on the project or employer, ordinary tasks of a roofer include:

• completing pre-installation inspections: before commencing a roofing project, you need to determine the best repair or remodelling procedure. That means you should inspect the existing structures and write down the parts that need fixing. For new construction projects, you should check the worksite to ensure all tools necessary for the job are available. You also estimate the number of roofing materials you will use and the labour resources needed.
• measuring and cutting roofing materials: you need to ensure the roofing materials fit along the edges and are neatly arranged. That involves altering the materials and trimming the edges for a tight fit. You also need to make sure the roofing material doesn't leave spaces around chimneys, gutters, vents and intersecting surfaces.
• preparing roof surfaces: your job is to smooth out rough sections and level roof surfaces before installing new shingles. You can use abrasive materials to level out surfaces or chisels and hammers. Sometimes you have to fill crevices using gravel to prevent water leakages and level the rooftops.
• installation: your primary responsibility is to install a weatherproof roof regardless of the roofing materials. Installation may include nailing the shingles and asphalt or arranging the roofing tiles. You should use vapour barriers or insulation for a weatherproof roof and apply caulk and mortar to seal any exposed nails that could cause leakages.
• liaising with clients and contractors: your job is to ensure the client is satisfied with the roof installed. Therefore, you need to discuss the roofing materials required and explain the features. You also liaise with the contractors or construction manager to ensure deadlines are adhered to.
   

As a roofer, your work is mainly on construction sites. That means you will spend most of the time outdoors in all weather conditions. Since your primary role is to install roofing materials, you should be comfortable with heights. You need to use scaffolding, ladders and safety equipment like knee pads. Roofers are prone to injuries and illnesses related to their occupation. The extreme temperatures on rooftops can also lead to heat-related illnesses.
 

Depending on your role, your colleagues can include plasterers and roof surveyors. You are also likely to work in close proximity to the site supervisor and construction manager, and other specialists that could include carpenters, architects and contractors.
 

As a roofer, you will work the regular 40-hour weeks in a full-time position. Since most careers in construction depend on the weather, during peak periods like summer, you have to cover extra hours to make up for the minimal work in winter. Some employers offer flexible work arrangements, including short-term contracts if you want a part-time position. When you are in charge of repairs, routine maintenance and roof replacement, you are likely to work during holidays and weekends to avoid interfering with normal routines in commercial buildings. Being a roofer also involves travelling to construction sites, attending customer call-outs for repairs or assessing storm damage. Freelance opportunities are also available, especially for experienced roofers.
 

Joining the construction industry as a roofer gives you many opportunities for growth and career progression. After gaining experience working in general roofing, you can specialise in a specific roofing type or hone your skills in particular project types. Some roofers improve their academic qualifications and gain expertise in other construction roles. For instance, some roofers focus on cost estimation and become roof surveyors or steeplejacks. With years of experience, you can become a site supervisor or start a roofing company.

Finding your roofer job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:

• a wide variety of training and development opportunities
• an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
• a range of opportunities in your area
• get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
• temporary and permanent contracts

Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a roofer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
 

In the UK, your salary as a roofer ranges from £17,000 to £35,000. The compensation package often depends on the area of specialism and the employer. 

A roofer installs roofing materials in various buildings, from commercial to residential houses. You also complete repairs and remove damaged roofs to prevent water leakages. 

 

When you start, the salary is low, but as you improve your experience, you can enjoy a lucrative salary. 

 

Becoming a roofer is rewarding since you make people's houses warm and habitable. The career also provides numerous opportunities for career progression. 

 

Applying for a roofer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!