A roofing job is work that involves putting roofs on buildings or fixing old roofs. Roofers install shingles, metal panels, tiles, and other roof materials to protect homes and buildings from rain and snow. The job can involve climbing to high places, measuring roof sizes, and nailing down materials. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 136,740 roofers employed in the U.S. as of 2024. Most roofing jobs fall into two types: new roof installation or replacing an old roof.
What Do Roofers Actually Do?
Roofers measure roofs and plan how to cover them. They remove old shingles or materials if needed.
Then they install new materials layer by layer. This might include underlayment, insulation, shingles, or metal panels. They also seal edges and add flashing around chimneys and vents. According to industry data, about 80% of all roofing work is replacement work, not new construction. This means most roofers are replacing aging roofs rather than building brand new ones.
Related articles:
- Which Tools Help Manage Roofing Job Estimates
- How Long Does a Roofing Job Take
- How to Estimate a Roofing Job
- How Do You Bid a Roofing Job
- How Do You Estimate a Roofing Job
- How to Charge for a Roofing Job
- How Do I Estimate a Roofing Job
- How to Retain Roofing Customers After a Job
How Long Does Roof Work Take?
Roof lifespan depends on the material used. Asphalt shingles last 20 to 30 years. Metal roofing lasts 40 to 80 years. Slate tiles can last 60 to 150 years.
The average age of roofs being replaced is just over 19 years. According to RubyHome, the average roof replacement costs $9,526, with a range from $5,868 to $13,217. A typical single-family roof might be 1,700 square feet.
Why Do People Need Roofing Work?
Homes need roofing work for several reasons.
| Reason for Replacement | Percentage of Homeowners |
|---|---|
| Leaking | 33% |
| Storm damage | 33% |
| Anticipating failure soon | 25% |
| Aesthetic/appearance | 3% |
The most common reasons are leaks and storm damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, hail damage cost U.S. homeowners $160 billion in reconstruction cost value in 2024. Many homeowners call roofers after big storms.
How Much Do Roofers Earn?
Roofing is a skilled trade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roofers earn a median annual wage of $48,000 to $52,000 per year. The median hourly wage is about $24.05. Pay varies by state, though. Massachusetts roofers earn the most at $72,390 per year on average.
The job is also dangerous. According to OSHA 2025 Construction Safety Outlook, roofing injuries are projected to cost $2.8 billion in medical and compensation expenses by 2025. Roofers face fall risks, cuts, and electrocution hazards when working on roofs.
Related articles:
- How to Price Out a Roofing Job
- How to Pay a Roofer for a Job
- How to Bid a Metal Roofing Job
- How to Handle a Bad Roofing Job Uk
- How to Inspect a Roofing Job
- How to Price a Roofing Job
- Is Roofing a Good Job
- How to Get a Roofing Job
Talk with a local roofing company to review your options and get a detailed estimate for your project.