The roofer’s job involves manual work, outdoors, which is sometimes rough, but it is varied, remunerative, and the demand is high. Indeed, this is a profession that cannot disappear and that will never be relocated!
What is the job of a roofer
The roofer works on the roofs of all types of buildings, whether they are residential houses or professional places. He builds them and repairs them. The roof being the part of a building that is the most exposed to the elements (rain, frost, hail, heat, etc.), the materials wear over time and become brittle, so there is never a shortage of work!
The roofer intervenes after the construction of the framework. Once the work is completed, the building’s interiors can be built, sheltered from bad weather. He also takes care of the roof fittings: installation of thermal insulation, installation of solar panels, installation of roof windows, etc.
Finally, he is responsible for renovating and repairing private roofs, as well as those of public institutions and historical monuments (church towers, castles, etc.).
A brief history of the roofing trade
The profession of roofer gradually became a separate profession and the first roofers’ guild was identified in 1328. The use of slate from the 16th century onwards definitively established the trade. From 1566 onwards, roofers were recognized and granted exclusive rights to work on roofs.
The roofing trade today
The roofing trade is part of the building industry. The roofer works on the construction, repair, and renovation of all types of roofs: tile, slate, flagstone, thatch, zinc or copper. He also takes care of the finishing touches: installation of rainwater pipes (gutters), addition of ornamental elements, skylights and roof windows, installation of thermal insulation and connection of chimneys.
The job involves working outdoors, in all seasons. The roofer must be agile and not be afraid to work in conditions that are not always the most comfortable. He usually works in a team.
The roofer must be disciplined and follow the safety instructions to the letter, otherwise he can put himself in danger. He must also be meticulous, because any approximation affects the waterproofing of the roof.
Roofer training
The roofer must be familiar with all roofing materials and processes. He is also trained in geometry, quantity surveying, and drawing.
Given the many skills that a roofer must master, he must undergo serious training, which he can pursue at several levels.
Level V training
- CAP roofer
- CAP (vocational training certificate) building and public works waterproofing
- BEP roofing techniques
- MC zinc work
Level IV training
- BP roofer
- BP waterproofing for building and public works
- BM roofer
Level III courses
- BTS carpentry and roofing
- BTS building envelope: facades, waterproofing
- BMS building
Job opportunities in the roofing trade
Construction companies are always looking for qualified, multi-skilled or specialised roofers. There are many jobs to be had and, with experience, a roofer can set up his own business or take over an existing business.
The roofer can also specialise in the restoration of historical monuments in France or anywhere in the world and work on extremely prestigious sites.
