Construction, Building and Trades - Roofer
Construction, Building and Trades - Roofer
Amber
Roofers are building workers who specialise in everything to do with roofs, using their skills to erect, clad and waterproof roof structures and install rainwater goods and flashing. Roofers re-slate and tile roofs, fit skylight windows and replace lead sheeting and cladding.
- Putting new roofs on lots of different kinds of buildings
- Fixing roofs on old or damaged buildings
- Removing or fixing broken slates and tiles
- Testing the safety of roof timbers
- Measuring, cutting, and fitting the new materials to the roof
- Layering new felt sheets, or laying new tiles or slates in rows
Roofers have to spend most of their time working outdoors, on top of buildings which can be very high.
The hours that roofers work can vary, especially when they are self-employed. Roofing often has to be done in dry weather, so they have to make the most of good conditions so can work longer days in summer and dry weather. On average they work 37-40 hours a week.
Starting salary: £17,000
Experienced salary: up to £35,000
There are no academic requirements to become a roofer. Most roofers start out as roofing labourers, training ‘on-the-job’ to pick up roofing techniques. A few might enter the profession through apprenticeships with building or roofing companies. Some employers may ask for GCSEs, including English and maths whereas others may be more flexible as long as you have good practical skills. You could also apply for an apprenticeship. If you have an EHCP you may be able to apply under the DfE exemption which allows the apprentice to use Entry level 3 English and Maths qualifications.
The apparent ice would have to be component enough to successfully achieve all other aspects of the apprenticeship requirements, become occupationally competent and achieve Entry Level 3 in English and Maths before the end of their apprenticeship. College - you could start off with a Level 1 Diploma in Preparation for Employment Level 1 in the Construction Industries.