A roofer is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in roof construction, repair, and maintenance – serving as your home’s first line of defense against the elements.
Quick Answer: What is a Roofer?
When your roof starts leaking during a storm or shows signs of aging, you need someone with the expertise to diagnose problems and implement lasting solutions. Roofers work with various materials – from traditional asphalt shingles to modern solar roofing systems – ensuring your home stays dry and protected.
The profession demands both technical skill and physical endurance. Roofers must be comfortable working at heights, often in challenging weather conditions, while handling materials that can weigh over 25 kilograms. They use specialized tools and safety equipment to install everything from basic shingles to complex waterproofing systems.
This trade offers multiple pathways for entry, including apprenticeship programs that typically last four years. In Alberta, for example, apprentices complete a minimum of 1,420 hours of on-the-job training plus classroom instruction over the first three years. Many roofers eventually advance to supervisory roles, start their own businesses, or specialize in emerging areas like green roofing technology.
The roofing industry also contributes to environmental sustainability through green jobs. Modern roofers install solar panels, vegetative roof systems, and energy-efficient materials that help reduce buildings’ environmental impact.
I’m Jason Hedtler, owner of Roof Experts LLC in Massachusetts, with years of hands-on experience in the roofing industry helping homeowners protect their most valuable investment. As a professional roofer, I’ve seen how proper installation and maintenance can save homeowners thousands in future repairs.
Being a roofer means so much more than just nailing shingles to a house. We’re problem solvers, craftspeople, and honestly, the unsung heroes keeping your home safe from whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Every day brings new challenges, from diagnosing mysterious leaks to installing cutting-edge solar systems.
The life of a roofer is anything but routine, involving diagnosing leaks, repairing storm damage, and installing brand-new roofs.
Inspecting roofs is the critical first step. We climb up to look for damaged shingles, worn flashing, or signs of water intrusion to find the true source of a problem. Repairing damage keeps us busy year-round, from emergency roof leak repair to fixing wind damage after severe weather.
Installing new roofs is where our craftsmanship is most visible. On flat roofs, we work with specialized membrane systems like EPDM or TPO. On residential sloped roofs, we prepare the surface with underlayment before carefully installing materials like asphalt shingles, metal panels, or slate. Properly sealing around chimneys and vents is what separates good work from great work.
Our work environment is unique. We spend our days outdoors, often 20-30 feet off the ground, in all weather. The physical demands are real—lifting materials over 25 kilograms, climbing, and working in awkward positions. Yet, there’s deep satisfaction in knowing our work will protect a family for decades.
Becoming a skilled roofer is a journey of hands-on learning and formal education. The apprenticeship pathway is the gold standard, typically lasting four years. It combines thousands of hours of paid on-the-job training under experienced journeypersons with classroom instruction covering building codes, safety, and material science. The Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) website offers detailed information on this path.
Upon completion, apprentices earn a journeyperson certificate, signifying their competence to work independently. Many then pursue the Red Seal program for interprovincial recognition across Canada. An alternative path for experienced workers involves qualifying through verifiable work experience and passing a comprehensive exam.
Career development is ongoing. The industry constantly evolves with new materials and techniques, so staying current through continuous training is essential for a successful career.
Roofing is dangerous work, with falls from heights being the primary risk. The fatal injury rate for roofers is significantly higher than for most professions, which is why safety is woven into everything we do.
OSHA requires fall protection for any work 6 feet or more above ground, and we treat these regulations as a minimum standard. Personal Fall Arrest Systems are critical; every roofer wears a full-body harness connected to a secure anchor point. We also use guardrails and safety net systems as physical barriers. Ladder safety is also paramount, requiring inspection before each use, stable placement, and maintaining three points of contact while climbing. Our team receives regular safety training on fall prevention and emergency procedures, using resources like OSHA’s Protecting Roofing Workers guide to stay current. A safe job site protects our workers, keeps projects on schedule, and gives clients peace of mind.
The future looks bright for skilled roofers. As long as people need shelter, they’ll need quality roofs – and that means steady job demand for qualified professionals.
Employment outlook varies by region, but the fundamentals remain strong. In Alberta, for example, 66% of employers have recruited roofers in the last two years. Even during economic downturns, roof repairs and maintenance continue because protecting existing investments becomes even more important.
Wage potential for certified roofers is competitive. In Alberta, the average wage is about $31.55 per hour, translating to approximately $66,576 annually. Experienced roofers with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities often earn significantly more.
Career advancement opportunities abound for motivated professionals. Many journeypersons move into supervisor roles, managing teams and overseeing complex projects. Others become inspectors, using their expertise to assess roof conditions for insurance companies or quality assurance.
Starting your own business as a roofing contractor represents the ultimate advancement opportunity. With solid technical skills, business acumen, and commitment to quality, many roofers build successful companies. That’s exactly how Roof Experts began – from hands-on experience to leading a team dedicated to excellence.
Green jobs represent an exciting growth area in our industry. Installing solar roofs has exploded thanks to federal tax credits and homeowners’ desire to reduce energy costs by 40-70%. Vegetative roofs help manage stormwater, improve air quality, and reduce urban heat island effects.
These environmental applications make our work more meaningful. We’re not just protecting homes; we’re helping create a more sustainable future. For larger projects, our expertise extends to commercial roofing applications.
Choosing the right roofer might be one of the most important decisions you make for your home. After more than 20 years in this business, we’ve seen what happens when homeowners make the wrong choice – and it’s not pretty.
Licensed and insured isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s absolutely essential. A valid license proves the contractor meets local standards and regulations. Insurance protects everyone – you, your property, and the workers. Always verify both with the issuing authorities, not just the contractor’s word.
Years of experience matter tremendously in roofing. While everyone starts somewhere, a roofer with substantial experience has encountered countless challenges and developed the skills to handle unexpected problems. We’ve been serving homeowners throughout Massachusetts, including Norfolk and Plymouth County, for over two decades.
Customer reviews tell the real story. Check multiple platforms like Google and industry-specific sites. A reputable roofer should gladly provide references from recent clients. If possible, drive by some of their completed projects to see the quality firsthand.
Detailed estimates separate professionals from fly-by-night operators. We provide comprehensive, transparent estimates breaking down materials, labor, timeline, and all associated costs. Be wary of vague quotes or high-pressure sales tactics.
Warranties show a contractor stands behind their work. Look for coverage on both materials (manufacturer’s warranty) and labor (contractor’s warranty). Understand what’s covered, for how long, and under what conditions.
Whether you need roof inspections or complete residential roofing services, ensure your chosen roofer has specific expertise in your type of roof and preferred materials.
Communication skills matter more than many people realize. A good roofer explains complex issues in simple terms, answers questions promptly, and keeps you informed throughout the project. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures everyone’s expectations align.
Taking time to thoroughly vet potential contractors protects your investment and ensures your roof will protect your home for decades to come.
When you think about what protects your family from rain, snow, wind, and scorching summer heat, it all comes down to one thing: your roof. And behind every reliable roof is a skilled roofer who understands that they’re not just installing shingles or fixing leaks – they’re protecting what matters most to you.
Throughout this guide, we’ve seen that being a roofer involves so much more than people realize. We’re craftspeople who spend years mastering our trade through rigorous apprenticeships. We’re safety experts who steer high-risk environments with precision and care. We’re problem-solvers who can diagnose complex issues and implement lasting solutions. And increasingly, we’re environmental stewards helping homeowners accept green technologies like solar roofing and energy-efficient materials.
The roofer profession demands respect – both for the physical challenges we face and the technical expertise we bring to every project. From working with traditional asphalt shingles to installing cutting-edge solar systems, we continuously adapt to new materials and methods while never compromising on safety or quality.
Your roof truly is your home’s first line of defense, and it deserves professional attention. When storm damage strikes, when age takes its toll, or when you’re ready to upgrade to more efficient materials, the roofer you choose makes all the difference. A skilled professional doesn’t just fix today’s problem – they help prevent tomorrow’s headaches.
At Roof Experts, we’ve spent over 20 years earning the trust of homeowners throughout Bellingham, MA, and across Norfolk and Plymouth County. We understand that your roof represents one of your largest investments, and we treat it with the care and expertise it deserves.
Whether you need emergency repairs, a complete replacement, or want to explore green roofing options, choosing the right professional matters. Look for licensed and insured contractors with proven experience, solid customer reviews, and transparent communication. Your home deserves nothing less than excellence.
When you’re ready to protect your investment and secure your family’s comfort, quality roofing work is an investment that pays dividends for decades. Find trusted local roofing companies that share your commitment to excellence – because when it comes to your roof, you want experts you can trust.
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