Like any career, a roofing career also demands that you constantly learn and skill up. Since you have spent a couple of years in this profession, it's time for you to take it to another level. You can move to the business side or start your own venture if you want more freedom.
Below are the top 6 smartest ways to climb up the ladder in a roofing career.
1. Excel in Your Core Skills First
Get really good at installations, repairs, and inspections. Learn different roofing systems like:
- Metal roofing
- EPDM rubber
- TPO membranes
- Solar roofing panels
Pro Tip: Follow leading roofers and contractors on YouTube or Instagram to learn industry tricks and stay inspired.
2. Pursue Certifications
Certification is necessary if you want to grow big in your niche. You cannot gauge high-end projects if you don't have credible licensing.
Even if it's not legally required in your state, being certified shows clients and employers that you're the real deal. It also helps you build your confidence.
Start with:
- State roofing licenses (check your local requirements)
- OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Safety Training - this is critical for safety and compliance
- Manufacturer certifications from brands like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed
3. Build Business & Sales Acumen
Even if you are not into initiating your own startup, knowing about invoicing, billing, client acquisition, local building codes, and insurance requirements gives you a huge edge.
Being great at roofing is one thing-turning it into a profitable career is another. Business knowledge bridges that gap.
4. Explore New Roles in Roofing
The roofing industry offers more than just swinging a hammer. As you gain experience, there are plenty of paths to consider:
- Roofing Sales Representative: Use your practical experience to sell roofing solutions and earn commission.
- Roof Inspector: Help homeowners or insurance companies assess roof conditions.
- Project Manager or Foreman: Lead entire projects from start to finish.
- Roof Estimator: Use software and experience to bid jobs accurately and help clients plan roofing budgets.
Don't trap yourself in one lane. Once you've nailed the basics of roofing, you will get better options.
5. Connect With the Industry Online and Offline
It's not just what you know. It's also who knows you. You can build your name in the roofing community by attending local trade shows, joining roofing contracting schools, and networking with suppliers and inspectors.
You can also try:
- Join Facebook groups or online discussion forums for roofers.
- Comment and share your work and expertise on social media.
- Connect with roofing company owners because you never know when an opportunity will come up.
Staying in the loop with new trends, tools, and opportunities to learn from others' experiences is the most clever approach to grow as a roofing expert.
6. Take on More Responsibility
The fastest way to grow in any skill? Show leadership before you're asked.
Here are some tips:
- Volunteering to lead smaller tasks or help new hires learn the ropes.
- Showing up early and being ready before others.
- Taking ownership when things go wrong and offering solutions.
Over time, you'll earn the trust to lead crews, manage timelines, and maybe even move into foreman or project manager roles.