New Roofing Contractors Should Seek Out Pros

A roofer, roofing contractor, or roof maintenance technician is a skilled tradesperson who also specializes in roof repair. Roofers repair, replace, or install the roofs of commercial buildings, with a range of different materials, such as shingles, asphalt, bitumen, clay, and metal. They also perform clean-up activities following roof installation, such as removing loose shingles and cleaning chimneys. They may be required to undertake maintenance or inspections on a regular schedule. In addition to repairing and replacing roofs, roofers install skylights, ventilators, gutter systems, and air conditioning systems.

Asphalt shingle roofs are one of the most popular roofers and are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. These roofs have a number of advantages over other types, which includes fewer repairs, less maintenance, and being able to install smaller sized roofs. Asphalt shingles are also more flexible than clay or slate roofs, which are commonly used for residential and commercial applications. One of the disadvantages of using asphalt shingles is that they tend to be more easily damaged by hail, falling leaves, and road debris. The asphalt shingle business is a competitive one, therefore it is important for a roofer to be trained in the installation of asphalt shingles so they can effectively do their job.

If you are considering hiring a roofer to repair your roof, make sure they are trained and certified by your local government agency. In order to make sure the roofer has the proper training and certification, check the National House-Building Council (NFCC) website and search for the roofer's name, city, state, county, or region. This will help you find out if the roofers work for the correct government agency. Furthermore, check with your insurance company to make sure that your roofing contractor is insured against mishaps such as storms and fires. While your insurance provider may pay for some of the costs of roof repair, they most likely won't cover any damages resulting from a roofer's negligence.

Asphalt shingle contractors can acquire training either through on-the-job apprenticeship programs or through college programs. There are currently several programs available for roofers in the U.S. that allow them to receive up to 12 weeks of training and on-the-job apprenticeship at an experienced roofing contractor company. These programs are being sponsored by the National House-Building Council (NHBIC). Asphalt shingle contractors who complete these apprenticeship programs are often guaranteed to obtain their first jobs at established roofing manufacturing companies.

GAF offers a roofers' training program that is recognized by the National House-Building Council. GAF is the largest and the most well-known national contractor organization in the United States. GAF offers two types of training programs. One type of training program is known as the GAF Apprentice Program, which is designed to provide prospective roofers with both the theoretical and practical instruction necessary to become independent contractors.

The second training option is the GAF Professional Certification Program. This program is designed to provide new roofers with the comprehensive knowledge needed to become licensed roofers in all states in the U.S., and the ability to demonstrate proficiency in all roofing contractor subjects (e.g., roof installation techniques, roof maintenance, and mechanical engineering subjects). Applicants to the GAF program must prove that they meet the eligibility requirements, and pass a competitive written exam. New roofers who successfully complete the GAF exam then will be awarded either a professional or an apprentice license by the GAF. Once your license is obtained, you'll be able to work as a roofing contractor in all 50 states!