Roofing is a construction division that handles the installation, repair, and replacement of roofs on buildings. It falls under the broader construction industry and is classified as part of specialty trade contracting. Roofers work on residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial structures. The roofing division is one of the most important parts of construction because it protects buildings from weather and damage. According to IBISWorld, the U.S. roofing contractor industry reached $81.3 billion in market size in 2025, showing how big this division really is.
What Type of Construction Is Roofing?
Roofing is classified as a specialty trade within the construction industry. It is not general contracting or framing, but rather a focused service that requires special skills and training.
Roofing falls under NAICS code 23816, which is “Roofing Contractors.” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 135,140 roofers employed in the United States, making it a major employment sector. These workers earn a median wage of $50,030 per year.
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Why Is Roofing a Separate Division?
Roofing requires special tools, knowledge, and safety equipment that general contractors do not always have.
The work is dangerous and demands training. Roofers must know how to work at heights and handle different materials like asphalt shingles, metal, slate, and tiles. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the average U.S. roof size is 2,647 square feet, which is a large job that needs experts. Different materials require different installation methods. Metal roofs last 40 to 80 years, while asphalt shingles last only 20 to 30 years, so roofers must understand each type.
How Many Roofing Companies Are There?
There are thousands of roofing contractors across the United States. According to IBISWorld, there are 27,058 roofing businesses operating in the U.S. as of 2025.
Most of these companies are small and work locally or regionally. According to the Roofer’s Guild, Texas alone has 8,629 roofing contractors, making it a major hub. The industry is highly fragmented, meaning no single company controls a large portion of the market. This gives homeowners and businesses many choices when hiring roofers.
What Materials Do Roofers Use?
Roofers work with many different materials, each with its own cost and lifespan:
| Material Type | Lifespan | Cost Per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | 20-30 years | $4.25-$8.25 |
| Metal Roofing | 40-80 years | $10.00-$17.05 |
| Slate Tiles | 60-150 years | $12.00-$22.00 |
| Clay Tiles | 100+ years | $12.00-$24.75 |
According to RubyHome, asphalt shingles dominate the market at roughly 80% of roofing projects because they are affordable and easy to install. Metal roofing is growing in popularity because it lasts much longer and resists fire better than asphalt.
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If you need help with your roof, reach out to a trusted roofing company for clear pricing and reliable service.