Roofing Helpers
Overview
Roofing helpers work alongside experienced roofers to repair and install roofs on homes and buildings. You'll handle physical tasks like carrying materials, cleaning work areas, removing old roofing, and preparing surfaces with protective layers before new materials go on. This hands-on job uses modern safety equipment and power tools while teaching valuable construction skills. It's perfect for people who enjoy working outdoors as part of a team and aren't afraid of heights.
Did you know?
Roofing helpers face significant injury risks from falls and must maintain excellent physical condition for demanding outdoor labor.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$41,128.70 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Judgment and Decision Making
Key Responsibilities
- Set ladders, scaffolds, and hoists in place for taking supplies to roofs.
- Maintain tools and equipment.
- Unload materials and tools from work trucks, and unroll roofing as directed.
- Hoist tar and roofing materials to roofs, using ropes and pulleys, or carry materials up ladders.
- Check to ensure that completed roofs are watertight.
- Sweep and clean roofs to prepare them for the application of new roofing materials.
- Provide assistance to skilled roofers installing and repairing roofs, flashings, and surfaces.
- Attach roofing paper and composition shingles, using nails.
- Clear drains and downspouts and clean gutters.
- Chop tar into small pieces, and heat chopped tar in kettles.
- Place tiles, nail them to roof boards, and cover nailheads with roofing cement.
- Remove old roofing materials.
- Locate worn or torn areas in roofs.
- Perform emergency leak repairs and general maintenance for a variety of roof types.
- Cover roofs with layers of roofing felt or asphalt strips before installing tile, slate, or composition materials.
- Attach sheets of metal to roof boards or building frameworks when installing metal roofs.
- Clean work areas and equipment.
- Apply shingles, gravel, or asphalt over the top layer of tar to protect the roofing material.
Career Considerations
High Safety Risk and Physical Demands
Roofing helpers face significant injury risks from falls and must maintain excellent physical condition for demanding outdoor labor.
Weather-Dependent and Seasonal Employment
Work availability fluctuates with weather conditions and seasonal construction cycles, potentially affecting income stability.
Clear Advancement Pathway
Helper positions often serve as entry points to becoming licensed roofers with higher pay and greater job security.