Is Roofing Considered the Toughest Contractor Job in the U.S.?

Billy Harris • April 18, 2024
0 minute read
roofer in DFW Texas

Some surveys have suggested that both professionals and consumers believe roofing to be the most physically challenging and demanding construction job in the industry – even above electrical and demolition.

 

While this may seem surprising to some, the dangers of roofing are well-known in the construction industry. From operating at elevated heights to handling hazardous equipment, the threat of human or machine error and its catastrophic consequences make roofing one of the more hazardous contractor jobs. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, for every 100,000 full-time roofers, nearly 52 suffer fatal injuries while on the job, which is a much higher rate than many other professions.

 

Suffice it to say that roofing requires rigorous training and a continued awareness developed with years of experience to do effectively and safely. At Billy Harris Roofing, we’ve been working with the same crew of licensed and insured roofing experts for over 30 years. These skilled craftsmen are hard-working professionals who we trust to get roofing repairs and replacement done correctly and safely the first time around.

 

Roofing Can Be Hazardous Work – Even When Nothing Goes Wrong

 

Homeowners should never climb onto their roofs, let alone try to fix an issue without the assistance of a professional roofer who has the experience and equipment to perform repairs effectively and safely. The dangers of roofing are numerous and potentially ruinous. 

 

The Many Risks of Roofing

 

Falling

Because they primarily operate at extraordinary heights, roofers are at a higher risk of falling. Falling from a ladder, roof or through an opening in the roof (such as a hole being repaired or a skylight) can lead to debilitating and possibly even fatal injuries.

 

Sun Exposure

Working at elevated heights – especially during a Dallas–Fort Worth summer, when temperatures can quickly reach triple-digits – puts roofers at an exacerbated threat of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, as well as worsening symptoms of pre-existing conditions.

 

Nailing and Stapling Accidents

Most of a roofer’s tools are potentially dangerous, including, hammers, nail guns, roofing welders and hot tar. Nearly every one of these tools can potentially contribute to serious injuries if mishandled. Nailing and stapling accidents can not only cause extreme pain and long-lasting scars but can also potentially cut a roofer’s career short.

 

Electrical Hazards

Roofers often encounter electrical wires or equipment on roofs as well as power lines on electrical poles near where they’re roofing, which puts them at an increased risk of fires or electrical shock accidents that can be fatal.

 

Wear and Tear

Even if a roofer has a very smooth career without any serious accidents, roofing is still a strenuous job. The physically demanding parts of the job don’t lend themselves to a long career. From exhaustive roof tear off and hauling work to many hours spent hunched over securing shingles to decking, even a day without mistakes is hard on the body.

 

Hiring Amateur, Uninsured Roofers Can Be Just as Dangerous as DIY Roofing

 

Home and business owners who contract a shoddy roofer for routine maintenance or repairs to save money could end up spending a fortune on preventable problems. Some low-rate roofing companies or handymen may employ unlicensed and uninsured roofers who perform mediocre work or make avoidable mistakes that lead to severe injuries while on your property – making you potentially liable.

 

Long-Lasting Repairs and Replacement From DFW’s Most Trusted Roofer

 

At Billy Harris Roofing, we’ve won the Angie’s List Super Service Award for 15 years in a row for delivering consistently exceptional service. The quality of our work and the commitment we bring to our craft shows in every long-lasting roof repair and flawless roof replacement our experienced and insured crew completes.

 ​​

Learn more about our roofing services or give us a call at (817)-249-3338 to receive a free estimate today.

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