Roofer is a profession that involves working with shingles and other roofing materials on homes, businesses, and buildings. They are responsible for the entire process of roofing, including inspecting a roof for damage or wear, sourcing materials and completing repairs. They often work at heights and are trained in fall protection. They use a variety of power and hand tools, such as grinders, sanders, drills, shears and hedge trimmers.
In domestic work, roofers often attend call outs to assess storm damage, replace shingles, and repair rotted joists. They also work on commercial buildings and new construction sites.
While the work is physically demanding, most roofers enjoy their careers. They find it rewarding to create something that will last for years and that is appreciated by their customers. They often work as part of a team and are happy to be outdoors and working with their hands. The main downside is that working on a roof can be dangerous, particularly when using a ladder. There is always a risk of falling from the roof, but the vast majority of roofers do not experience any accidents or injuries.
Those in the industry will typically start their day with a safety meeting and receive regular training on how to install new roofing systems. They will also be required to use a number of different tools, depending on the type of roof that is being installed. Roofers often work with roofing shovels and pry bars to remove old roofing material, as well as hammers, nails guns, and framing squares for the installation of new roofing materials.
There is also a high level of interaction with clients. Some roofers will be required to meet with their customers to discuss the roof repair and installation, as well as walk them through the finished product. This can be a challenging aspect of the job, but one that is essential to ensuring that the client understands what is being done and why.
Roofers are often self-employed or run their own small business, but they can also be employed by a larger company that specializes in the building of roofs. This can offer a more stable and lucrative career path, especially for those who are interested in building their own business from the ground up. Those who are considering becoming a roofer should speak to their local recruitment agency to learn more about the skills and experience that are necessary for the role. This will allow them to make an informed decision about whether or not this is the right career for them. In addition to this, it is important for anyone who is thinking about becoming a roofer to consider the health and safety implications of this occupation. There are a number of precautions that can be taken to minimize the risks, such as using a harness and regular checks on the condition of equipment.