Roofers install, repair and replace flat and sloped roofs. They work with membrane roofing systems that consist of a variety of materials with different application methods. They also install, replace and repair shingles, slate, shakes, roofing tiles, sheet metal and other preformed sheeting on sloped roofs. Before the work begins, roofers may inspect existing roof systems and determine the extent and procedure for repair of the substrate or removal and replacement of roofing materials. Some roofers may be involved in the estimating of material and installation costs.
As part of the job preparation, roofers may set up scaffolding and fall restraint systems to provide safe access to the work area. They also weatherproof, waterproof and damp-proof roofing surfaces, foundation walls, floor slabs and bridge decks. They install roofing accessories such as sheet metal flashings, roof vent flashings, anchor bolt flashings, drain inserts and clamps.
Roofers may be employed by roofing companies, general contractors or they may be self-employed. They may work on all types of roofs or may specialize in the flat or slightly sloping roofs of commercial and industrial buildings or in the sloped roofs found in most residential buildings.
Key attributes for people in this trade are mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity and the ability to work in a team. Roofers work primarily outdoors and work may be seasonal. The work environment may vary from cold to extremely hot, working in the sun with molten bitumen and torches. Roofing is physically demanding work and requires considerable effort in lifting, climbing, bending, kneeling and balancing on high, sloped and sometimes slippery surfaces.
Roofers work in conjunction with other tradespeople in the construction trades. With additional training, roofers may transfer their skills to related occupations such as carpenter and sheet metal worker. With experience, they may advance to supervisory positions or become contractors or inspectors.
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Volunteer Centres in Manitoba
Volunteer Manitoba Suite 410-5 Donald Street South Winnipeg, R3L 2T4 Tel: 888-922-4545 Fax: 204-284-5200 www.volunteermanitoba.ca vmddyck@mts.net More >
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Boilermaker
Boilermakers construct, install, test, maintain and repair boilers, tanks and other vessels that contain liquids, gases and dry products. These vessels may have unique characteristics. Boilermakers may work from blueprints to fabricate components from steel or other materials. They often have to attach rigging and work with cranes to lift... More >
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Aboriginal Job Centre
The Aboriginal Job Centre lists employment opportunities across Canada that are available to Aboriginal people. Listings can be searched by location, job sector, or key word. More >
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Grant for Students with Dependants
This grant provides financial assistance to students with dependent children under 12 years of age at the period of study start date. Students who are eligible for the Grant for Students with Dependants may also be eligible for the Grant for Students from Low-Income Families Delivered by: Human Resources and... More >
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Machinist
Machinists possess the knowledge and abilities to set up and operate machines that cut or grind metal and other materials into products with precise dimensions. These machines include lathes, milling machines, saws, grinding machines, drilling machines and boring machines. Machinists work from drawings, specifications and their own measurements to calculate... More >
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Sprinkler System Installer
The occupational title "Sprinkler System Installer" defines persons who, because of their knowledge, training and abilities, are capable of installing, testing, maintaining, and repairing fire protection systems. Sprinkler System Installers are usually, but not exclusively, found in industrial, institutional, commercial, and residential situations, such as: plants, factories, office buildings, hotels,... More >
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Veterinary Colleges in Canada
The Atlantic Veterinary College University of Prince Edward Island 550 University Avenue Charlottetown, PEI, Canada C1A 4P3 Université de Montréal 3200, rue Sicotte Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada J2S 7C6 The Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1 The Western College of Veterinary Medicine University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon,... More >
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Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
A heavy duty equipment technician is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge, abilities and skills required to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, maintain, operate and test mobile heavy duty off-road equipment. Heavy duty equipment technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealerships,... More >