What they do
Roof Tilers cover roofs with tiles, sheets and shingles to form a waterproof surface.
Roof Tilers study drawings to determine materials, erect equipment, secure waterproof sheets, underlay and roofing material.
Roof Tilers need to enjoy heights, working in the elements and be able to lift heavy material.
Working conditions
Roof tilers generally work a 40-hour, five-day week, but overtime may be required to meet construction deadlines. Those who work for themselves would normally work longer hours including weekends to complete the job as quoted. You'll work outdoors on roofs of varying heights, sometimes from ladders and scaffolds. You must observe safe working practices to avoid falling and injury when working with hazardous materials. The heat can be intense for those working on roof structure in the summer. You'll routinely be required to lift materials and equipment weighing up to and in excess of 25 kilograms.
A Roof Tiler's work involves a lot of bending, climbing and lifting. They work outdoors in all weather conditions.Some travel may be required to get to various work sites.
Tools and technologies
A Roof Tiler may use: Cable hoists; belt elevators; batten trolleys; tile cutters; trimming trays; chipping hammers; bedding frames; nail guns; clouts; nails; cement; flexible pointing binder; trowels; slaters hammer; slate cutter; English/German ripper; etc.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a roof tiler, you usually need to undertake an apprenticeship in roof tiling. The apprenticeship usually takes between 36 to 48 months to complete and is available as a school-based apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.
Required registration and licensing
To work as a roof tiler in Western Australia you will need to obtain builders’ registration from the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety or work under the supervision of a registered building practitioner, if you carry out work valued at more than $20,000.
Roof tilers working in the construction industry must undergo safety induction training and be issued with a Construction Induction Training Card (commonly known as a "White Card"). In WA, training is conducted by registered training organisations authorised by WorkSafe.