A roofing contractor is a person or company that installs, repairs, and replaces roofs on homes and buildings. They are skilled workers who know how to put on shingles, metal panels, tiles, and other roof materials. Roofing contractors can work alone or as part of a larger crew. Some contractors run their own business, while others work for bigger companies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 136,740 roofers employed in the U.S. as of 2024, and the industry continues to grow as more homes need roof repairs and replacements.
What Do Roofing Contractors Do?
Roofing contractors handle many types of work on roofs. They inspect roofs to find damage. They repair leaks and broken shingles. They also tear off old roofs and install brand new ones.
Most of their work is replacement. According to industry data, 85% of the U.S. roofing industry revenue comes from replacement of existing roofs. This means most roofing contractors spend their time replacing old roofs rather than building new ones. Contractors also work with different materials like asphalt shingles, metal panels, tiles, and more.
Related articles:
- How to Choose a Good Commercial Roofing Contractor
- What Insurance Should a Roofing Contractor Have
- What to Look for in a Roofing Contractor
- How Do I Find a Reputable Roofing Contractor
- How to Verify Roofing Contractor Credentials
- How to Find a Good Roofing Contractor
- What Does a Roofing Contractor Do
- How to Select a Roofing Contractor
Types of Roofing Contractors
Not all roofing contractors are the same. Some specialize in residential roofs (homes), while others focus on commercial roofs (big buildings). Some work on both types.
Most roofing contractors in the U.S. work for small to mid-sized companies. According to RubyHome (2025), about 66% of roofers work at companies with 50 to 500 employees. Many contractors also run solo businesses or work as part of small crews. The largest roofing companies focus mainly on commercial work, which pays better. But local and regional contractors dominate the home roofing market.
How Much Do Roofing Contractors Earn?
Roofing contractors earn decent money for their skilled work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers earn between $48,000 and $52,000 per year on average. Some make much more, and some make less depending on where they live and how experienced they are.
Pay varies by state. Here is what roofers earn in top-paying states:
| State | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $72,390 |
| Illinois | $70,110 |
| Connecticut | $69,170 |
| California | $69,000 |
| Alaska | $67,880 |
Why Roofing Contractors Are Important
Roofing contractors do hard and risky work. They climb on roofs in all kinds of weather. This job has high safety risks. According to OSHA, roofing injuries are projected to cost $2.8 billion by 2025. Despite these risks, roofing contractors are essential because they keep homes and buildings safe and dry.
The demand for roofing contractors continues to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of roofers is expected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average for all occupations. This is because homes get older, storms cause damage, and people always need roof repairs and replacements.
Related articles:
- Roofing Contractor How Much Down Payment
- What Is a Gaf Master Elite Roofing Contractor
- Should You Show Roofing Contractor Insurance Estimate
- What Is a Roofing Contractor
- Can a General Contractor Do Roofing
- What Is Torch Down Roofing Called
- What to Ask Roofing Contractor
- Can a General Contractor Do Roofing in Florida
If you need help with your roof, reach out to a trusted roofing company for clear pricing and reliable service.