Roofer
Use sustainable materials to build and mend roofs that will keep people warm, safe and dry.
Also known as: roofing labourer
About the job
What it's like
Roofers work outdoors, installing and repairing roofs on all kinds of buildings. It’s a hands-on job that keeps you active and offers plenty of variety.
You'll focus on making sure buildings are safe, dry and protected from the weather. You’ll work with different materials like tiles, slates, metal and flat roofing systems. The job can be rewarding, especially when you see a finished roof and know you’ve helped keep people safe and comfortable.
You might work on new builds, historic restorations or emergency repairs after a storm. Roofers are needed in construction, property maintenance and specialist roofing firms. Some roofers specialise in flat roofing, heritage restoration or installing eco-friendly green roofs.
Your tasks might include:
measuring and cutting roofing materials to fit specific spaces
removing old or damaged roofs before installing new ones
fitting tiles, slates or metal sheets securely
sealing roof joints to prevent leaks
installing insulation or ventilation systems
checking completed work for quality and safety
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You might:
install green roofs or solar panels to improve energy efficiency
use sustainable or recycled materials in roofing projects
Hours
You’ll usually work Monday to Friday, but some projects may need early starts or late finishes to make the most of daylight and good weather.
Weekend work can come up, especially if you need to meet deadlines or catch up after bad weather.
Overtime is common, particularly in busy periods or when working on larger jobs.
Environment
You’ll spend most days outdoors, working at height on rooftops of homes, schools and commercial buildings.
Expect to face all types of weather, from brisk winds to summer sun, so dressing appropriately is key.
Projects range from new builds to historic restorations, offering variety and a strong sense of achievement.
Travel
You'll travel from site to site, so you'll need a full UK driving licence and access to a van.
Some jobs may require you to stay overnight.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- reliable
- time management
- taking initiative
- risk taking
- managing resources
- problem solving
- resourceful
- cooperating
- resilience
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Construction Craft
Skills for Work: Practical Experiences: Construction and Engineering
The most common way into becoming a roofer is completing a Modern Apprenticeship.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Construction
Built Environment
Architectural Technology
Civil Engineering
Building Services Engineering
Construction Management
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Discover MAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Discover GAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a roofer. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
You may have to pass an aptitude test before entry.
To work on a construction site, you'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card and to pass a health and safety test.
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