How To Become An Expert Roofing Contractor: A Career Journey

If you’re looking for a role that keeps you physically active, gets you out in the fresh air, and offers a rewarding career, then working as a roofing contractor could be the ideal path for you.

Our experienced roofing contractors have gone through all the steps needed to make a success of this role, and we’re on hand to help budding roofers get into the industry.

Whether you’re working out what field you want to go into after finishing your education or you’re considering a career change, here’s what you need to know about becoming a roofing specialist.

What are the benefits of working as a roofer?

As a family-run business that’s been in the roofing industry for two generations, we’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy the myriad benefits of this career.

●      Variety: It may sound clichéd, but when you work as a roofing specialist, no two days are the same. Every project offers the opportunity to learn and apply new skills, and you’ll often have the chance to work on residential, commercial, and industrial jobs.

●      Job security: We all need a roof over our heads. So from roof installation to maintenance and emergency repairs, there’s no shortage of job opportunities. As we’ll explore shortly, there’s also the chance to train in specialised fields, such as roof restoration.

●      An active lifestyle: It’s important to note that roofing does require a good level of physical fitness. With this said, the role will also help keep you active. Expect to be working at height, carrying heavy materials, using tools, and being out in the elements.

Do you need a qualification to do roofing?

To start your roofing career journey, you don’t need any specific formal education but it’s helpful to have a good foundation of maths and English to support with measuring, calculations, and communication while on site.

One of the best ways to get into roofing is to get an apprenticeship, which often lasts around two or three years. This allows you to learn on the job, develop your skills, learn the key safety regulations, and get guidance and support from coworkers. Because the job is so hands-on, many people find practical experience far more beneficial than theoretical learning.

However, while you don’t need any specific certifications to become a roofer, you may find education courses helpful in developing skills such as mechanical drawing and blueprint drawing. Some qualifications are also necessary if you want to advance into certain roofing roles.

For example:

●      NVQs and SVQs: Getting a Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) or SVQ (Scottish Vocational Qualification) in Roofing Occupations can showcase that you are competent and skilled in roofing. Level 3 is a good option if you want to train in specialised areas or move into a supervisory role.

●      Construction Skills Certification Scheme: This is an essential accreditation if you want to work on commercial or industrial construction sites. Having a CSCS card shows that you have the necessary training to work on construction sites and have passed a test to show you understand site safety.

Health and safety is also vital on any other site, and you’ll receive training through your apprenticeship,  NVQ, or SVQ.

Specialist training for restoration projects and traditional roofing methods

As mentioned, some areas of roofing require you to undergo some specialist training. These roles often entail a lot of detail and craftsmanship. With these sought-after skills under your belt, you’ll be able to handle jobs that other roofers may not, putting you in good stead to build up a great reputation.

Traditional roofing methods

Over the years, the techniques and materials used in roofing have shifted. Modern roofing methods tend to involve more affordable materials, such as composite tiles, fibreglass, and metal. They are often easier to install.

Older properties, on the other hand, use traditional roofing materials and methods. Period properties may be constructed from clay tiles, slate, and thatch, for instance. These materials offer a timeless look but can be more complicated to work with, requiring a high skill level.

By learning how to work on traditional roofs, you can open up your prospective workloads and demonstrate specialised skills. From slating to lead work, our roofing professionals are pleased to offer a range of traditional roofing methods.

Roof restoration

Once you’ve developed your skills in traditional roofing methods, you can apply them to historical roof restoration projects.

High-quality roof restoration respects historical architecture and embraces its heritage. It requires a sensitive approach that ensures any new elements flow seamlessly into the overall original design.

The team at B&D Roofing and Building has had the chance to work on some fantastic heritage roofing restorations across Midlothian. Take a look at our projects to see what this kind of work entails in more depth.

B&D Roofing and Building: Expert Roofing Contractors in Scotland

Our team is passionate about carrying out roofing projects to the highest standards. We’ve got the training needed to not only handle roofing installations and general maintenance but we’re also proud to offer heritage roof restoration that harnesses traditional techniques.

If you need support with any form of roofing service, don’t hesitate to get in touch. And if you’re an aspiring roofing specialist in East Lothian, Midlothian, the Scottish Borders, or elsewhere, we wish you the best of luck with your career journey.