Roofer Careers & Salary Information
Roofers install and repair roofs using shingles, metal, membrane, and other materials. The work is seasonal in some regions, but skilled roofers stay busy year-round and can earn well above average for the construction industry.
National Salary Overview
Roofer Specialties
Roofers can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Commercial Roofer
Installs flat and low-slope roofing systems on commercial buildings using TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen, and built-up roofing. Larger projects with better pay than residential.
Residential Roofer
Installs and replaces shingles, underlayment, and flashing on houses. High volume of work, especially after storms.
Metal Roofing Installer
Installs standing seam and metal panel roofing systems on commercial and high-end residential projects. Growing specialty with good margins.
Roofing Estimator
Measures roofs, calculates materials, and bids jobs for roofing contractors. Transitions experienced roofers off the roof and into a higher-earning office role.
Explore Roofer Topics
Roofer Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Roofer salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level roofers typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level roofers in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union roofers earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified roofer depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Roofer work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified roofers have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a roofer's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.