A roofer, roofing contractor, or roof repair contractor is a trained tradesman who specializes in repairing roofs. Roofers repair, replace, and even install the roofs of commercial buildings, using various materials, such as metal, shingles, and clay bitumen. While roofers may use a variety of tools to perform their jobs, their basic tools include an assortment of different types of picks, tongs, claw hammers, power saws, and drills. Most roofers work on residential roofs alone because it is more often required that they use their hands. However, they are sometimes called on to repair or replace the roofs of commercial buildings.
Roofers usually work on two types of roofs: flat and sloped roofs. They may also fit around or over the ceiling of a building. In addition, they may work on detached or attached roofs. The type of roof they install depends on the type of roof they are charged with repairing or installing. For example, if they are repairing a flat roof, then the only tools they will need are a hammer and chisel.
Flat roofs are most often repaired by using asphalt shingles. However, this roofing material does not last very long and it is prone to leaking. Flat roofs are mostly made of clay or asphalt tiles. These tiles are held together by tacks or nails. Tiles are slightly vulnerable to water damage, so they are frequently topped off with asphalt shingles. However, a few decades ago, most flat roofs were made of asphalt.
Some roofers work on inclined roofs. This type of roof is made of a metal platform that extends downward to a central point. There are times when roofers are required to go up ladders to inspect for leaks or defective shingles. In addition, some roofers work on multi-level buildings.
Low-slope roofs are usually constructed using asphalt shingles that are less resistant to water. They also do not have the visual appeal of other types of roofing systems. If low-slope roofs are damaged, they cannot usually be repaired with modern shingle technology because the repair would likely be unsightly.
Some roofers work on steep-sloped roofs. These roofs are usually constructed of clay tiles that are arranged in a series on a steep pitch. The pitch, however, can vary from one level to another. This is usually determined by the building’s intended use. A steep-sloped roof is an expensive type of repair because it involves extra steps to access the roof area.
Most roofers learn their trade on the job. This means that when they first arrive on the job, they are fully aware of what to do and what not to do. On-the-job training helps them know how to handle different materials and tools, how to work safely within the environment, how to follow workplace safety regulations, how to perform tasks related to their job, and how to communicate properly with other team members. It also gives them a chance to practice their new skills on real jobs. Some companies give workers time off for On-the-job training. Other companies provide workers with on-the-job training, such as through video or audio tours.
On-the-job training typically takes about two days. Most often this includes learning how to inspect various materials used in a low-slope roof, such as clay tiles, slate or concrete. It also includes learning how to inspect a roofing system, such as an elevated platform or a skid steer. Most companies offer a short course on installation, followed by an on-the-job training session. After the training is complete, workers are able to install one or more different types of roofing systems, such as gypsum board, aluminum or copper roofs, and asphalt shingles. Some companies also install and repair shingles.
