How Much Do Roofers Make Per Hour

Roofing hourly pay varies widely based on location, experience, certification, and employer type. This article breaks down national averages, regional differences, and ways roofers can increase their hourly wages to provide a clear picture of what to expect in the U.S. roofing trade.

Category	Typical Hourly Range	Notes
Entry-Level Roofer	$12 – $18	Limited experience, on-the-job training
Experienced Roofer	$18 – $30	Several years, skilled in multiple materials
Journeyman/Lead Roofer	$25 – $40+	Supervisory roles, certifications, specialty roofing
Union Roofers	$28 – $45+	Often include benefits and prevailing wages

National Average Hourly Pay For Roofers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median hourly wage for roofers around $23 to $25 per hour, though figures fluctuate by year and data source. Median values represent the midpoint where half earn more and half earn less, reflecting a broad range across the industry.

Factors That Determine Roofing Pay Per Hour

Several variables influence roofing hourly pay; the most important include experience, skillset, certification, company size, demand, and job type. Complex or hazardous work, such as steep-slope, metal, or flat roof systems with specialized membranes, commands higher hourly rates.

Experience And Skill Level

Entry-level roofers typically earn less, while roofers with five or more years, who can install multiple roofing systems or supervise crews, can expect substantially higher pay. Skill upgrades like shingle replacement, TPO, EPDM, and metal roofing installation directly boost hourly wages.

Geographic Location And Cost Of Living

Wages vary considerably by region. Urban and high-cost areas like California, New York, and parts of the Pacific Northwest tend to offer higher hourly rates to offset living costs. Rural markets may pay less, though competition and demand can produce higher pay spikes during busy seasons.

Union Versus Nonunion

Union roofers often earn higher hourly rates plus comprehensive benefits and pensions. Prevailing wage jobs and union contracts can push hourly wages well above nonunion averages.

Type Of Employer And Work Setting

Commercial roofing, restoration projects, and government contracts generally pay higher hourly rates than routine residential roofing. Specialty contractors and large roofing firms often pay premiums for certified installers.

Typical Hourly Ranges By Experience

Below are commonly observed hourly bands for roofers across experience brackets.

• Apprentice/Entry-Level: $12–$18 per hour, focusing on basic tasks and learning safety protocols.
• Mid-Level Roofer: $18–$28 per hour, with multiple system installation experience and fewer supervision needs.
• Experienced/Journeyman: $25–$40+ per hour, able to lead crews and handle complex installations.

Regional Pay Differences And Examples

Regional differentials reflect local economies, union presence, and construction demand. Examples illustrate variation: in some metropolitan California markets the median hourly pay can exceed $30 per hour, while in smaller Midwestern towns the median may be under $20 per hour.

Northeast And Mid-Atlantic

High labor costs and union contracts push average pay above national medians. Roofers in major Northeast metros can expect hourly wages in the high $20s to mid $30s.

South And Midwest

These regions often offer lower nominal wages but also lower living costs. Hourly pay commonly ranges from $14 to $24 depending on experience and project type.

West Coast

The West Coast typically provides some of the highest hourly wages due to strong construction demand and higher living expenses. Roofers in some Western metros can earn $30+ per hour with experience.

Union Pay, Prevailing Wage, And Benefits

Union roofers benefit from negotiated hourly rates, benefits, and pensions. Prevailing wage projects, often public jobs, require higher pay scales. Benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid training increase overall compensation beyond the hourly rate.

How Roofer Pay Is Calculated And Overtime

Most hourly roofers are paid for actual hours worked, with overtime rates applying after 40 hours under federal law in standard arrangements unless otherwise exempt. Inclement weather, travel time, and piece-rate work can complicate pay calculations, so clear contracts and time tracking matter.

Ways For Roofers To Increase Hourly Wages

Roofers can boost hourly pay through targeted strategies: gaining certifications, specializing in high-demand materials, joining unions, and moving into supervisory or estimator roles. Continuing education and safety certifications like OSHA 10/30, NRCA programs, and manufacturer certifications add measurable value.

• Obtain Manufacturer Certifications (e.g., GAF, CertainTeed)
• Complete OSHA Safety Training And Advanced Rigging Certifications
• Develop Sales, Estimating, Or Project Management Skills
• Join A Union Or Work On Prevailing Wage Projects

Contractors, Independent Roofers, And Self-Employment

Independent roofers and small contractors may charge higher effective hourly rates but also bear overhead, insurance, equipment, and marketing costs. Net take-home pay depends on overhead management and consistent client flow.

Benefits And Total Compensation Considerations

Hourly wage is only one part of total compensation. Paid time off, health insurance, retirement plans, and unemployment coverage affect the effective value of an hourly rate. A lower hourly rate with solid benefits can rival a higher hourly rate without benefits.

Seasonality, Demand, And Job Security

Roofing wages can be seasonal in many markets, with peak pay and overtime in spring and summer and slower work in winter. Strong local demand for remodeling and storm recovery work can lead to higher short-term hourly rates. Emergency and storm-response roofing often pays premiums for rapid deployment and extended hours.

Pay Trends And Industry Outlook

Industry trends show continued demand for roofing installers driven by new construction, reroofing cycles, and extreme weather events. Wages are likely to rise where labor shortages and increased material costs persist. Investments in training and specialty systems will be rewarded with higher hourly pay opportunities.

Practical Tips For Job Seekers And Employers

Job seekers should research local pay scales, ask about benefits, and verify certifications before accepting offers. Employers should offer competitive wages, training paths, and safety programs to attract skilled workers. Transparent pay structures and regular raises tied to certifications help retain experienced roofers.

Resources For Verifying Roofing Wages

Reliable sources for local and national roofing wage information include the Bureau of Labor Statistics, state labor departments, union contracts, and industry associations like NRCA. Checking multiple sources helps create an accurate market rate for roofing hourly pay.

Key Takeaway: Roofing pay per hour depends on many variables. Most roofers earn between $12 and $40 per hour, with median wages around $23–$25, and opportunities to increase pay through experience, certification, geographic mobility, and union membership.