How Much Do Roofers Earn?

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Average roofer salary in the UK

Checkatrade research has outlined the average pay to expect as a roofer working across the UK, with the salary rates as follows:

• An apprentice roofer should expect an annual salary of £11,520
   

• A newly qualified roofer should expect an annual salary of £17,100
   

• An employed roofer should expect an annual salary of £29,700
   

• A sole trader roofer should expect an annual salary of £66,600
   

• A business owner of a Ltd roofing company should expect an annual salary of £80,100

It is not just the level of experience and skill set which will affect how much a roofer will earn though.

Where a roofer works could alter their earning potential, for instance. According to statistics from Check-a-Salary, those undertaking a career in this trade in the North East of England often have a higher salary than the same tradespeople in other parts of the UK.

The type of work being carried out by a roofer can also see them being paid more money. As outlined in our how to become a roofer career guide, those in this area of trade could consider gaining Level 3 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) diplomas (or the Scottish Vocational Qualification equivalent if studying in Scotland) so that they are skilled at designing and constructing full roofs. 

Aim to stand out from other roofers by specialising in a style of roofing or type of building too, such as:

• Becoming a commercial roofer, where experience will be gained in using heavy equipment and setting out the maintenance procedure so that a building’s roofing standards are maintained.
   

• Becoming a metal roofer, which will involve work being done to fit metal panels to both residential and commercial buildings ahead of other roofing work being started.
   

• Becoming a shingler, who has a responsibility to install roofing materials such as tiles, shingles and shakes.

A look into the average cost of roof repairs

Another aspect which can alter how much a roofer makes is to consider the cost of different types of roof repairs on average.

Many roofers will charge by the hour, with a Which? study discovering the following:

• Replacing a single ridge tile will typically cost £85
   

• Cleaning gutters will typically cost £150
   

• Replacing one to six standard roof tiles will typically cost between £350 and £500
   

• Fitting a new felt roof will typically cost £1,000
   

• Installing a new flat roof using boards and modern products like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and rubber ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) will typically cost £1,600
   

• Fitting a new tiled roof will typically cost £14,000

Just like when we covered the average roofer salary in the UK though, the costs outlined above could be affected by several factors. This includes where a tradesperson lives, the size and age of a property being worked on, or the type of material used for the job.

Understanding a self-employed roofer salary in the UK

Becoming a self-employed roofer may have intrigued you by the fact a sole trader roofer can expect an average annual salary of £66,600 and a business owner of a Ltd roofing company has an average annual salary of £80,100.

The salary and take-home figures of those at this level of their trade will differ once costs and business expenses are calculated though. 

Examples include the need for these tradespeople to purchase their own set of high-quality tools and equipment, buy and maintain their own works vehicle (including covering weekly fuel costs), as well as take out liability insurance and health and safety insurance to protect a business and its assets.

Be sure to take note too that self-employed roofers will be responsible for their own National Insurance and tax contributions.

As a result, Checkatrade estimates that the approximate take-home pay of a sole trader roofer will be £48,300. Meanwhile, a business owner of a Ltd roofing company can expect their take-home pay to be around £56,100.

Are you looking to keep expanding your trade industry knowledge now that you have a clearer understanding about the average roofer salary in the UK? Our Trade News & Advice hub is filled with so many more helpful guides.