Roofer

A roofer installs, repairs, and maintains the outer covering of buildings—known as the roof. You work with different materials (slates, pantiles, metal sheets, or flat‐roof membranes) to create watertight, weatherproof barriers. Roofers inspect structures for damage, replace worn or broken sections, and ensure everything meets building regulations and safety standards.

What tools do you use to do your job?

• Hammer and Roofing Hatchet: For driving nails and cutting materials.
• Nail Gun: Speeds up fixing shingles or tiles.
• Utility Knife/Roofing Knife: Precise cutting of underlay and membranes.
• Tape Measure and Chalk Line: Accurate measurements and straight guidelines.
• Roofing Square: Checks angles and ensures proper alignment.
• Scaffold and Ladders: Access to all parts of the roof safely.
• Safety Harness and Anchors: Prevent falls when working at height.
• Caulking Gun: Seals joints and flashings against leaks.

What makes a good roofer?

• Attention to Detail: You must spot small issues—like a loose tile or an uneven seam—before they become big problems.
• Physical Fitness and Balance: Carry heavy materials, climb scaffolding, and work at steep angles without losing focus.
• Problem‐Solving Skills: Diagnose leaks, adapt underlays for awkward shapes, or find creative ways to work around obstacles.
• Knowledge of Building Regulations: Understand planning permissions, fire safety rules, and local codes to ensure compliance.
• Teamwork and Communication: Coordinate with builders, electricians, or clients—clear communication avoids mistakes and delays.
• Safety‐First Mindset: Always follow health & safety protocols and use protective gear correctly.

What do you do each day?

1. Review the Job Brief: Study plans or drawings to understand materials needed, roof pitch, and any special requirements.
2. Set Up Access: Erect scaffolding or position ladders, anchor safety lines, and don harnesses.
3. Inspect the Roof Structure: Check rafters, decking, and underlay for rot or damage.
4. Remove Old Materials: Strip away worn or damaged tiles, slates, or membranes carefully.
5. Install Underlay and Flashings: Lay waterproof barriers and metal flashings around chimneys, vents, and joints.
6. Fit Roofing Material: Align and fix tiles, slates, or sheets in overlapping patterns to ensure water runs off correctly.
7. Seal and Finish: Apply sealant to vulnerable areas, cap ridges, and tidy up loose nails or debris.
8. Quality Check: Walk the eaves and inspect from ground level to confirm everything is secure and straight.
9. Clear the Site: Remove waste materials, fold up access equipment, and leave the area safe and clean.