Anyone can learn how to work on a roof if they have the right passion and determination, but every Maryland roofing company will tell you that being professional is a whole different ballgame.
Are you wondering what are the qualifications of being a professional roofer, and what are the steps it takes to get there?
Use this guide to learn about the types of education, experience, and qualifications required to work for a Maryland roofing company.
Learn more about Residential Roofing Maryland
Education
The process of becoming a roofer begins with education in the trade and industry. No specific educational certificate is required beyond a high school diploma or GED. After high school, many roofing companies in Maryland recruit from trade schools or contractor programs.
In these programs, students learn all the necessary aspects of roofing as a trade, including:
• How to operate the necessary equipment and tools
• The types of roofing materials and how to apply them
• Which home structures support which materials and techniques
• Customer service and collaborating with clients
Real-World Experience
Once completing a program or graduating from a trade school, hands-on training is the next essential step. The best roofing companies in Maryland know that practice makes perfect, which is why many recruit for apprenticeships or internships. Completing an apprenticeship allows you to learn about the trade by training with someone who works in the field.
Training can occur as part of your education but should extend far beyond what you complete in school. Working with real roofing contractors Maryland has to offer allows knowledge of local homes and industry.
Qualifications
In the state of Maryland, no state license is required to operate as a roofing company MD. In some cases though, if the project falls into the category of home improvement, there may be a license required.
Licensure
Home improvement roofing licensure is offered through the Maryland Home Improvement Commission, or MHIC. All that is required for licensure are:
• Passing the PSI exams
• Registration as a business through the Department of Assessment and Taxation in the state
• Submission of documents like bank statements, credit reports, property assessment notices, and more
• Proof of liability insurance
• Payment of fee
Working with a licensed company gives clients more peace of mind. It generally means they won't have to pay the entire cost of the project upfront and that they will get an official contract including a warranty.
Certified by Manufacturer
This is not required, but often provides that extra touch of exceptional service that entices clients. Roofing companies in Maryland can get certified by the manufacturer. Certification comes after intensive training in learning equipment operations for that manufacturer. This means the contractor will have expertise in installation and repair regarding that specific system.
Adherence to Safety Protocol
Roofing in Maryland can be a dangerous job if you don't know safety protocols or aren't physically fit enough to complete the work. Maryland roofing contractors must climb, balance, and have the strength necessary to avoid falling or dropping things that could result in accidents. Some jobs must be completed in high heat, rain, snow, or freezing temperatures. Roofers have to exert themselves physically without causing injury or illness.
Learn more about How Roofers Deal With Unique Features of Your Roof: Top 3 Challenges
The Bottom Line
Becoming a roofer can be a challenging journey, requiring knowledge of equipment, experience with installation and repair, and even licensure for some projects. Do you have what it takes to install quality residential and commercial projects and execute expert repairs on a fast deadline?
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