Position Overview
A roofer assistant is hired to provide support to people who install and repair roofs. This support role requires one to be able to understand typical and rare roof problems and handle them in a way that the client remains satisfied. The work is purely physical which means that one has to be physically active to be able to achieve the right results.
Most roofer assistants start out as apprentices, and make their way up to an assistant position, and finally work in a roofer role.
Roofer Assistant Qualifications
Usually, a high school diploma or a GED equivalent is sufficient to work as a roofer assistant. If you have held a previous job in the same capacity, you will be considered a good individual to hire, as you will have some experience.
The ability to read drawings and blueprints to ensure that specifications are understood is one of the highest requirements of this job. Knowledge of standard tools and equipment used in the roofing process is also required if this is the work that you want to do.
Additionally, roofers must be able to handle replacement and repair work on roofs that have already been installed and must understand the importance of ensuring that the end product is neat, and aligned properly.
To see what a roofer assistant does on any typical workday, have a look at the following list of duties:
Roofer Assistant Duties & Responsibilities
• Look through blueprints and drawings to determine the placement of roofs and general specifications.
• Confer with roofers to determine what measures need to be taken to install, replace, or repair roofs.
• Assist roofers in deciphering costs of labor, materials, and equipment required for each roofing project.
• Gather tools, resources, equipment, and materials required for each roofing project, and bring them to the workspace.
• Clear and clean workspace to ensure that no harmful or hazardous materials are around to hinder work progress.
• Inspect roofs to determine the best way of repairing them, and provide feedback to the roofer.
• Measure roofs to calculate the quantities of required materials and resources, and ensure that any additional costs are included.
• Replace damaged or rotting joists and plywood, and clean areas properly so that new ones can be installed.
• Install vapor barriers and insulation layers, and ensure that shingles are properly placed.
• Cut and shape roofing materials so that they can fit around walls and vents, ensuring that clean workmanship is shown.
• Gather all tools and equipment at the end of the day, and place them in storage areas in a safe manner.