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๐Ÿงฑ Trade Spotlight: Roofers in the Pacific Northwest

“The First Line of Defense Against the Elements.”

Roofers protect everything — literally.
They’re the ones who keep homes dry, warehouses sealed, and commercial buildings standing strong through every season.
If you’re not afraid of heights and like working outdoors, this is a trade that rewards skill, toughness, and pride in a job well done.

 

What Do Roofers Do?

Roofers install, repair, and replace roofs made of materials like shingles, asphalt, slate, metal, and wood.
They also apply coatings to seal, waterproof, and insulate buildings.

Their work includes:

  • Measuring and cutting roofing materials

  • Installing underlayment, shingles, or metal panels

  • Repairing leaks or damaged areas

  • Applying weatherproof coatings or insulation

  • Using hand tools and safety equipment at heights

Some roofers specialize in flat commercial roofs, metal roofing systems, or eco-friendly and solar-integrated roofs.

Work Environment

Roofers work almost entirely outdoors — often at heights, in heat, cold, or wind.
It’s physically demanding work that involves climbing, lifting, balancing, and staying focused on safety.
Crews work together to get jobs done quickly and efficiently, rain or shine.

If you like hands-on work and don’t mind a workout, roofing offers steady, high-demand employment.

How to Become a Roofer

Formal education isn’t required to start roofing, but a high school diploma or GED helps.
Most roofers learn on the job or through a 2- to 3-year apprenticeship that combines paid training and classroom instruction.

Training Covers:

  • Safe roof access and fall protection

  • Material handling and installation

  • Waterproofing and insulation techniques

  • Equipment use and maintenance

Union apprenticeship programs are available through the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers & Allied Workers.

Pay in the Pacific Northwest (2025)

StateAverage Pay (2025)Range

Washington~$60,000/yr (~$29/hr)$40K – $80K+

Oregon~$56,000/yr (~$27/hr)$38K – $75K+

Idaho~$52,000/yr (~$25/hr)$36K – $68K

๐Ÿ’ฐ Union roofers and those specializing in commercial or industrial roofing systems often earn higher wages and steady year-round work.

Job Outlook

Roofing is one of the fastest-growing construction trades in the Northwest.
Employment is projected to grow around 10%–12% (2024–2034) — faster than average — with Oregon seeing strong demand due to new construction and ongoing replacement projects.

Key Growth Drivers:

  1. New housing and commercial development

  2. Aging buildings needing repair or replacement

  3. Demand for energy-efficient and green roofing systems

  4. Weather-related roof damage and insurance claims

If you’re reliable, safety-focused, and ready to work hard, there’s no shortage of jobs in this field.

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Real Talk for the PNW

Roofing isn’t for everyone — it’s hot in summer, cold in winter, and you’ll feel every climb.
But it’s honest work that pays well and builds real skill fast.
Most roofers say the best part is looking back at a roof they built and knowing it’ll protect a family or business for decades.

 

Learn More

Explore apprenticeship programs and local training options:

๐Ÿ’ฌ Ready to Rise Above?

If you like working outdoors, staying active, and seeing immediate results from your effort — roofing might be your calling.
You’ll build real skills, earn solid pay, and help protect the Northwest one roof at a time.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Learn more about trade careers? Please email us here! 

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