Description of the Roofer trade

“Roofer” is this trade’s official Red Seal occupational title approved by the CCDA. This standard covers tasks performed by roofers whose occupational title has been identified by some provinces and territories of Canada under the following names:

English Provincial and Territorial Trade Names
  NL NS PE NB QC ON MB SK AB BC YT NT NU
Roofer Check MarkNL Check MarkNS Check MarkPE Check MarkNB Check MarkQC Check MarkON Check MarkMB Check MarkSK Check MarkAB - Check MarkYT Check MarkNT Check MarkNU
Roofer (Roofer, Damp and Waterproofer) - - - - - - - - - Check MarkBC - - -

Roofers install, repair, maintain and replace roofing systems. They work with membrane roofing systems that consist of a variety of materials with different application methods. They also install, replace, maintain and repair shingles, slates, shakes, roofing tiles, sheet metal and other pre-formed sheeting on sloped roofs.

Before the work begins, roofers may inspect existing roof systems and determine the extent and procedure for repair of the roofing assembly components or removal, re-covering and replacement of roofing materials. Some roofers may be involved in the estimating of material and installation costs.

As part of the job preparation, roofers may set up scaffolding to provide safe access to the work area and may install fall protection systems. They also weatherproof, waterproof and damp-proof roofing surfaces, foundation walls, floor slabs and bridge decks. They may install roofing accessories such as sheet metal flashings, roof vent flashings, anchor tie-off flashings, drain inserts and clamps.

Roofers may be employed by roofing companies, general contractors or they may be self-employed. They may work on all types of roofs or may specialize in the low sloped roofs of commercial and industrial buildings or on the steep sloped roofs found in most residential buildings.

Key attributes for people in this trade are mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity and the ability to work in a team. Roofers work primarily outdoors and work may be seasonal. The work environment is exposed and may vary from extreme cold to extreme heat. Roofing is physically demanding work and requires considerable effort in lifting, climbing, bending, kneeling and balancing on high, sloped and sometimes slippery surfaces.

Roofers work in conjunction with other tradespeople in the construction trades such as sheet metal workers, mechanical contractors, electricians and carpenters in industrial, commercial, institutional and residential sectors. With additional training, roofers may transfer their skills to related occupations such as carpenter, sheet metal worker, bricklayer and glazier. With experience, they may advance to positions such as supervisors, estimators, project managers, contractors, consultants, technical representatives or inspectors.