Updated 2025 · Construction
How to Become a Roofer
Roofers install and repair roofs using shingles, asphalt, metal, rubber membrane, and other materials to make buildings waterproof.
Steps to Become a Roofer
- Meet basic requirements — You must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. A strong foundation in math, physics, and shop classes helps.
- Apply to an apprenticeship program — Roofer apprenticeships last 2 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apply through your local union (IBEW, UA, etc.) or a non-union contractor program. You earn while you learn from day one.
- Complete required training — Complete 4000 hours of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
- Earn certifications — Required certifications include: OSHA 10/30-Hour, NRCA ProCertification, Manufacturer certifications (GAF, CertainTeed), Fall protection certification.
- Pass the journeyman exam — After completing your apprenticeship, pass the journeyman licensing exam in your state to earn full journeyman status and pay.
What Does a Roofer Do?
Roofers install and repair roofs using shingles, asphalt, metal, rubber membrane, and other materials to make buildings waterproof.
Daily Duties
- Inspect roofs to determine repair or replacement needs
- Install roofing materials (shingles, membrane, metal panels)
- Apply waterproofing and insulation materials
- Remove old roofing materials
- Install flashing and vents
Skills Needed
- Roofing material installation
- Waterproofing
- Flashing installation
- Roof inspection
- Safety equipment use
Required Certifications
- OSHA 10/30-Hour
- NRCA ProCertification
- Manufacturer certifications (GAF, CertainTeed)
- Fall protection certification
Roofer Salary (2025)
The national median roofer salary is $50,049 per year. Pay ranges from $40,686 in the lowest-paying metro to $64,719 in the highest-paying metro. See the full roofer salary breakdown by city.
Apprentice Pay Progression
Roofer apprentices earn while they learn, starting at approximately 40% of journeyman pay:
| Year | % of Journeyman | Estimated Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 40% | $20,020 |
| Year 2 | 90% | $45,044 |
| Journeyman | 100% | $50,049 |
Union vs Non-Union Roofer Pay
Union roofers earn 28% more than non-union workers — $30.20/hour union vs $23.59/hour non-union. Approximately 15.7% of roofers are union members. See the full union vs non-union comparison.
Work Environment
Roofers work outdoors on rooftops in all weather conditions. Physically demanding and dangerous — high risk of falls and heat exposure. Seasonal in cold climates.
Career Outlook
Steady demand driven by roof replacements and storm damage repairs. Commercial roofing (TPO, EPDM membrane) is a growing specialty.
Frequently Asked Questions
The national median salary for a roofer is $50,049 per year (2025 BLS data). Pay ranges from $40,686 to $64,719 depending on location, with top earners in the 90th percentile making significantly more.
It takes 2 years to complete a roofer apprenticeship. During this time, you earn while you learn — starting at approximately 40-50% of journeyman wages and receiving annual raises.
No college degree is required to become a roofer. The primary path is through an apprenticeship program or trade school. You will need to earn specific certifications: OSHA 10/30-Hour and NRCA ProCertification.
Roofer earns a Trade Pay Score grade of D, meaning it rates moderately on pay relative to cost of living, wage growth, and demand. Steady demand driven by roof replacements and storm damage repairs. Commercial roofing (TPO, EPDM membrane) is a growing specialty.
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