Why this matters:
Roofers must be able to perform laborious work — including roof replacements and heavy lifting — for many hours at a time. Answers may reveal bodily fitness, mental resilience, and the ability to adapt to evolving environmental conditions or project requirements. To prepare for such demands, candidates should prioritize hydration, sun protection, and self-care.
What to listen for:
- Comfort with heights
- Experience working long shifts
- A strong work ethic
Why this matters:
Roofing jobs can range from replacing a few shingles on a one-story home to building a totally new roof on a multistory building. Roofs with steep inclines or a unique layout can be a challenge to roofers who aren’t accustomed to those kinds of projects. You want to hire someone with experience working on complicated roofing projects, or at least the willingness to learn those skills on the job.
What to listen for:
- No fear of steep roofs
- Experience with multiple kinds of roof repairs, from simple to complex
- Knowledge of best practices for complicated repair procedures
Why this matters:
Roofs can be made from a variety of materials: tile, shingle, metal, and more. The use of different materials requires different skills and procedures for installation. Use this question to be sure the applicant has experience building with the materials for your project, or wide experience with a variety of materials.
What to listen for:
- Desire to keep up with industry developments concerning roofing materials and technology
- Experience sourcing and installing multiple materials
- Industry knowledge of preferred materials and best practices
Why this matters:
Roofing is one of the riskiest construction occupations, rife with dangers like falling and electrocution. Candidates who prioritize roof traffic management, protective gear, and sun care can protect themselves and their team members. By following all safety protocols, they can help cultivate a welcoming and enjoyable work environment.
What to listen for:
- Knowledge of relevant safety protocols
- A strong sense of personal responsibility
- Awareness of how to balance safety precautions with work efficiency
Why this matters:
This question gives you insight into your applicant’s experience, as well as their ability to handle high-pressure situations. Roofing projects are often difficult for a variety of reasons, such as unexpected structural issues, bureaucratic delays, or team member disagreements. By acting decisively, they can devise creative solutions to complex problems.
What to listen for:
- An enthusiastic, resilient mindset
- Ability to navigate complex or unanticipated challenges
- Willingness to ask for help when necessary
Why this matters:
Roofers may occasionally encounter dissatisfied, uncommunicative, or otherwise difficult clients. By anticipating potential conflicts and acknowledging all concerns, candidates can react sensitively and professionally. Doing so can improve project outcomes, uncover technical weaknesses, and even strengthen client relationships.
What to listen for:
- Excellent conflict-resolution skills
- Ability to maintain composure in stressful situations
- In extreme situations, willingness to step back from the relationship or project
Why this matters:
Delays in roofing projects are frustrating to clients. Roofing companies, however, are often working on multiple projects in the same period of time. Making sure all projects are done quickly and safely is a balancing act that requires knowledge of roofing, leadership skills, and time management skills.
What to listen for:
- Progress markers or goals tied to specific dates
- Time management skills
- A system for remedying mistakes or delays
Why this matters:
Some tasks in roofing can be done by anyone with basic carpentry skills and no fear of heights. Other tasks, particularly when using special materials or working on older structures, require someone with more experience or training in certain skills. Roofing is a team effort, and a good roofer can work with people of all skill levels to get the job done.
What to listen for:
- Willingness to learn from more experienced coworkers
- Willingness to train or instruct less experienced coworkers
- Positive attitude free of condescension or arrogance
Why this matters:
Roofing can be dangerous, even when all safety precautions are followed. Just a slip can mean someone falling multiple stories. You want to bring on someone who can react quickly in an emergency while following the correct procedures, and can rebound from the shock of these situations.
What to listen for:
- Quick decision-making
- Knowledge of basic first aid, CPR, and other emergency protocols
- Ability to look back on the incident and point out if any mistakes were made leading to it
Contact a sales consultant.