Roofer
Use sustainable materials to build and mend roofs that will keep people warm, safe and dry.
Also known as: roofing labourer
About the job
What it's like
You would build and mend roofs to keep people warm, safe and dry in their homes and businesses.
You'll work with both flat and sloped roofs and your methods will depend on the type of roof. Your tasks might include:
removing or mending broken tiles or slates
checking that roof timbers are sound
measuring and cutting materials to the right size and shape
laying strips of felt onto timbers, then fitting rows of tiles or slates
fitting lead around chimney stacks and adjoining walls
making sure roofs are well insulated to reduce energy consumption
installing solar panels to make homes more energy-efficient
sealing roof joints with mortar to make them watertight
working with other craftspeople, such as joiners and plumbers
You might also be trained in more specialist methods. You could learn to carry out leadwork, which involves covering a roof using lead rolls (often seen on churches). You could also learn to make thatched roofs out of natural materials.
This work can be dangerous, so you would need to follow health and safety rules very carefully at all times.
Hours
Your typical working week would be around 40 hours, but may be longer during the summer months. Overtime may be available.
Environment
You would work at heights, using ladders, scaffolding and safety equipment like a hard hat and knee-pads. The job is physically demanding and dirty, and you would work in all weather conditions.
Travel
You would travel from site to site. A driving licence and access to a van would be useful. Some jobs may require overnight stays away from home.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Roofer'
Select qualification level(s)
Other careers that you might like
Bricklayer Stonemason Plumber Joiner Shopfitter Glazier Window fitter
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- roofing
- roofing materials
- masonry
- working at heights
- rain gutters
- shingling
- flat roofing
- flashing (weatherproofing)
- domestic roof construction
- single-ply roofing
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- reliable
- time management
- taking initiative
- risk taking
- managing resources
- problem solving
- resourceful
- cooperating
- resilience
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Construction Craft
Skills for Work: Practical Experiences: Construction and Engineering
You could complete a Modern Apprenticeship in Construction or Construction Specialist (SCQF Level 5).
There are no formal qualifications required to enter either apprenticeship, but some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF Level 4/5.
Qualifications and experience that show practical skills such as Skills for Work Construction Crafts (SCQF level 4/5).
You may have to pass an aptitude test before entry.
You must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent, pass a health and safety test and have a Scottish Vocational Qualification certificate to train or work on construction sites.
A driving licence is required for some jobs.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Roofer'
