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How to Become a Commercial Roofer

A career as a commercial roofer is challenging but rewarding. As experts in constructing and maintaining roofs in a commercial setting, they have a skill set that is highly valuable. In this post, we will go over the duties of a commercial roofer, the expected compensation and career outlook, and the steps necessary to enter into this profession. 

What Does a Commercial Roofer Do? 

Like residential roofers, those that specialize in the commercial sector construct roofs for businesses. This includes one story mom and pop shops to the buildings of skyscrapers. Commercial roofing is much different than residential and therefore requires an additional set of skills. Residential roofs tend to have a higher pitch than commercial roofs and are usually made of different materials. 

Commercial Roofer Salary and Career Outlook

A commercial roofer’s salary can look very different depending on where they are and how much experience they have. In 2018, the average salary for a commercial roofer was around $20 an hour, or $42,000 a year

In 2021, there were 158,000 roofers reported in the United States and the percent of growth is estimated to be around 1%

Steps to Becoming a Commercial Roofer

  1. Obtain High School Diploma or Equivalent 

Most commercial roofers have a high school degree or GED but it is by means required. It can however, place you in a more favorable position in the hiring process so it is considered an advantage to one. 

  1. Pursue an Apprenticeship

After you have completed high school, the pursuit of a roofing apprenticeship will also be of great value. Again, this is not required but during an apprenticeship, you will learn the trade specific skills required of a commercial roofer. 

  1. Obtain Certification 

Your next step will be to obtain certification from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). This certification ensures that you have the education necessary for a roofer. The fees for this certification differ depending on whether you are a member of the NRCA. For members: $799. For non-members: $1599. 

  1. Meet Physical Requirements

Roofers have a very physically demanding job. THey are often required to lift objects over fifty pounds and can be confined to awkward positions for hours at a time. That’s why it is imperative to be in good shape if you want to pursue this career. Another thing to consider is if you have a fear of heights. As commercial roofers usually work on taller buildings than residential, you should have some comfort with heights. 

  1. Get Your First Commercial Roofing Job 

After you have received your diploma, completed your apprenticeship, obtained your certificate, and met the physical requirements, you are ready for the hard part. Finding a job. Although this is always the hardest part of any profession, rest assured that you have taken all of the correct measures to ensure future employment. 

The Best Commercial Roofers are at Supreme Roofing 

While the career path isn’t for everyone, the commercial roofers at Supreme Roofing have a passion for delivering the best results possible. Our decades of experience and expertise are at your disposal for all of your commercial roofing needs. Give us a call or fill out our online form today so we can give you the roof that your business deserves. 

Craig Rainey
Craig Rainey

Executive Vice President

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