How to Be Commercial Roofing Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 5, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The roof of a commercial building plays an important role in protecting it from environmental elements such as rain, snow, and excessive heat. If the roof is not properly maintained, it can lead to serious damage to the building and its contents due to water infiltration, mold growth, and structural deterioration. A professional commercial roofing technician can help prevent these issues by performing regular inspections and maintenance, and making necessary repairs. By ensuring that the roof is properly cared for, businesses can avoid costly repairs and replacement, extend the life of the roof, and save money in the long run.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Before becoming a commercial roofing technician, individuals must earn a high school diploma or equivalent. This can be done through traditional classes or through an online program.
Participate in an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience and on-the-job training. Working with an experienced commercial roofing technician can provide valuable insight and guidance.
Obtain certification. Many employers prefer to hire technicians who have been certified by a recognized organization. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) offers certification programs for commercial roofing technicians.
Join a professional organization. Joining a professional organization such as the NRCA can help keep technicians up to date on the latest industry trends and techniques.
Maintain knowledge of safety protocols. Safety protocols should be followed at all times to ensure the safety of employees and customers. Commercial roofing technicians should stay up to date on the latest safety regulations and best practices.
Pursue continuing education. Continuing education can help commercial roofing technicians stay current on the latest industry trends and techniques. Taking classes and attending seminars can help technicians stay competitive in the industry.

The need for reliable and qualified roofing technicians is essential for any commercial roofing project. Poorly executed roofing projects can lead to costly repairs, personal injury, and disruption of business operations. To ensure that a commercial roofing project is completed successfully, it is important to seek out a technician who is experienced, trained, and certified in the type of roofing material being used.

A knowledgeable technician will be able to identify potential problems before they become costly and dangerous and will provide quality workmanship that will last for years. a qualified roofing technician will be familiar with applicable safety regulations and codes, ensuring that the roofing project is completed in accordance with all applicable standards. By taking the time to find a reliable and qualified roofing technician, businesses can rest assured that their roofing project will be performed safely and to the highest standards.

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Job Description

Inspects roofing systems and components to identify repair/replacement needs.
Installs a variety of roofing systems and components such as insulation, flashing, shingles, and sheet metal.
Applies waterproofing and protective coatings to roofs.
Repairs or replaces damaged roofing materials.
Installs gutters and downspouts.
Fabricates and installs sheet metal flashings.
Performs preventive maintenance on roofs, such as cleaning and inspecting for signs of wear or damage.
Completes all necessary paperwork related to job assignments.
Follows safety procedures when working on roofs or using ladders or scaffolding.
Maintains tools and equipment in good working condition.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of roofing materials and systems, including shingles, metal, EPDM, and TPO.
Ability to inspect and diagnose roofing problems.
Proficiency in roof installation and repair techniques.
Ability to use hand and power tools safely and efficiently.
Ability to read and interpret construction plans and blueprints.
Familiarity with OSHA safety regulations.
Knowledge of local building codes and regulations.
Excellent problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong customer service skills.
Excellent communication skills.
Physical strength, agility, and stamina to perform strenuous work in all weather conditions.

A successful roofing technician must possess a variety of skills to be successful. First, they must have a solid understanding of roofing materials and installation techniques. This includes knowledge on how to properly measure and cut roofing materials, as well as the correct way to install and repair them.

They should also have experience with different types of roofing systems, such as shingle, tile, and metal. they should be proficient in using tools and equipment for roofing projects, such as ladders, drills, and saws. Finally, a successful roofing technician must have excellent problem-solving and customer service skills, since they must be able to quickly identify and address potential problems while providing excellent customer service.

Without this combination of skills, a roofing technician will have difficulty finding success in their career.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with commercial roofing?
What is your understanding of the various types of roofing systems used in commercial buildings?
Describe a recent job you completed involving commercial roofing.
What safety measures do you take when working on commercial roofing projects?
How do you stay up to date with the latest developments in commercial roofing technology?
What challenges have you faced while working on commercial roofing projects?
How do you ensure that a commercial roofing project is completed to the highest standards and within budget?
Describe a time when you had to solve a complex problem during a commercial roofing project.
How do you manage multiple projects at once?
How do you handle customer complaints or dissatisfaction with a job?

Common Tools in Industry

Heat Gun. Used to heat and remove old roofing material (eg: softening asphalt shingles).
Nail Gun. A tool used to quickly drive nails into wood and other materials (eg: installing roofing felt).
Roofing Hammer. A tool used to manually drive nails into wood and other materials (eg: installing roof flashing).
Roofing Knife. Used to cut roofing material (eg: cutting shingles).
Tape Measure. Used to measure lengths of roofing material (eg: measuring roof slope).
Roofing Trowel. Used to spread roofing material (eg: spreading tar).
Hand Seamer. Used to bend metal flashing (eg: curving metal flashing around a chimney).
Safety Harness. A device used to protect the worker from falling (eg: securing the worker when working on a sloped roof).
Roofing Boots. Heavy-duty boots used to protect feet from sharp objects, such as nails (eg: walking on a roof with nails).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)
Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT)
Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA)
Metal Construction Association (MCA)
Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress (RIAP)
Single Ply Roofing Industry (SPRI)
National Slate Association (NSA)
Roof Consultants Institute (RCI)
National Roofing Legal Resource Center (NRLRC)
National Roofing Foundation (NRF)

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Common Important Terms

Air Barrier System. A system of materials designed to keep air from entering or leaving an enclosed space.
Asphalt. A dark, sticky substance composed of bitumen and mineral particles that forms a waterproof membrane for roofs.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR). A type of roofing system built up from multiple layers of asphalt, gravel, and felt paper.
Flashing. Thin pieces of metal used to cover and seal joints in roofing materials.
Insulation. Materials used to reduce heat transfer and increase energy efficiency in a building.
Membrane Roofing. A single-ply roofing system consisting of a waterproof membrane applied directly to the substrate.
Metal Roofing. A type of roofing system made from metal panels or tiles.
Ventilation. The process of introducing or removing air from a building in order to regulate indoor air quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become a Commercial Roofing Technician?

A Commercial Roofing Technician typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as experience in the roofing industry. Basic knowledge of tools, materials, and safety regulations is also necessary.

What tasks are performed by a Commercial Roofing Technician?

A Commercial Roofing Technician is responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of commercial roofs. This may include installing new roofs, repairing existing roofs, and performing inspections.

What type of equipment is used by a Commercial Roofing Technician?

A Commercial Roofing Technician uses a variety of tools and equipment, including ladders, scaffolds, power saws, drills, hammers, and other hand tools. They may also use specialized roofing equipment such as air compressors and hot air welders.

What safety regulations must be followed by a Commercial Roofing Technician?

Commercial Roofing Technicians must follow all safety regulations when performing their work. This includes wearing proper safety equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots. They must also be aware of their surroundings and take precautions when working at heights.