Roofers held about 123,400 jobs in 2014, of which 72 percent were in the roofing contractors industry. About 1 in 5 roofers were self-employed.
Roofing work can be physically demanding. It involves heavy lifting, as well as climbing, bending, and kneeling, frequently in very hot weather. Roofers work outdoors in all types of weather, particularly when making repairs. However, they rarely install roofs when it rains or when it is very cold.
Although some roofers work alone, many work as part of a crew.
Injuries and Illnesses
Roofers have a higher rate of injuries and illnesses than the national average. Workers may slip or fall from scaffolds, ladders, or roofs, where they do most of their work. They may also be burned by hot bitumen. Proper safety precautions and equipment can prevent most accidents and fatalities.
Roofs can become extremely hot during the summer, which can cause heat-related illnesses.
Work Schedules
Like many construction workers, most roofers work full time. In northern states, roofing work is limited during the winter months. During the summer, roofers may work overtime to complete jobs quickly, especially before rainfall.
About 1 in 5 roofers were self-employed in 2014. Self-employed workers may be able to set their own schedules.