(Roofing Industry)

Before we look into the employment trends for 2022, we must first look at the outlook for the roofing industry. After an unpredictable few years and some sort of normalcy beginning, we all hope there will be a positive shift.

Materials Shortages Continue

Unfortunately, according to Roofing Contractor, we will still be facing material shortages.

“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Commercial Construction Index found that 84% of contractors are facing at least one material shortage in their business. Additionally, nearly half expressed that these shortages are having a high impact on their projects and that this is the top concern they have currently. These material shortages are also causing stress on customers, affecting the cost, timelines and specific choices on what they’re looking for” (Josh White, Roofing Contactor).

However, even with material shortages and having to stockpile supplies to stay on schedule, the roofing industry continues to grow. In fact, Attics and more says “There are approximately 109,331 roofing contractor businesses in the USA as of 2022, showing a 1.8% increase from 2021”.

Going green!

“Possibly the biggest buzzword in the residential industry this year is sustainability. The push toward green construction focuses on a straightforward goal: reducing the resources that go into construction projects to lower a home’s carbon footprint. By accomplishing this, contractors are able to create greater long-term value for a home’s owners and occupants.

Some of the newest trends in the sustainable construction materials market include transparent and flexible aluminum, biofoam, and even self-healing concrete. Both homeowners and construction industry experts look forward to implementing these materials as well as new techniques for ensuring sustainability in all their future projects” (Best Choice Roofing).

Better use of technology

Anthony Locicero at Roofing Exteriors writes “Because of the pandemic, roofing and exterior professionals have begun to embrace digital technology more than they did pre-COVID.

‘Contractors are coming to [RoofersCoffeeShop] for digital opportunities, to find information, continuing education to do business.” said Heidi J. Ellsworth, a partner in RCS and owner of HJE Consulting, in an exclusive interview with Roofing & Exteriors. “And we’ve really seen, not just on the website, but through our podcasts or our live streams through our conversations and our panels. Contractors are really thirsting for this kind of information”

Now let’s talk about employment statics…

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statics “Employment of roofers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2020 to 2030, slower than the average for all occupations.

Despite limited employment growth, about 15,600 openings for roofers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire”.

Average salary according to Jobber:

***These salary statics are for laborers. Salaries for other positions such as Project Managers, Superintendents, and  Foremen will most likely be significantly higher.

Average Age of Roofing Contractors

Courtesy of Zapia

Over 70% of the roofing population is over 40 years old which means that as they continue to mature in age and retire, employers will have to start hiring their replacements now. Why now? Those who are retiring have most likely been in the business many years and have the knowledge and experience needed. The people that come in to replace them are going to need time and training to acquire all the skills and knowledge of their predecessors.

Demanding Times

“Residential roofing remains in high demand in both cities and rural areas around the country.

Contractors that identified as primarily residential reported median 2021 revenue ranging from $500,000 to $4.9 million. A total of 14% reported revenue between $5 million and $9.9 million.

Another strong indicator of residential roofing health was 2021 sales. Roughly 59% of residential contractors said they expected annual sales to improve over 2020, and another 69% said they anticipate 2022 sales to increase. Roughly 28% said their 2021 sales remained the same, and 21% said they expect the same sales revenue this year” (Roofing Contractor).

In conclusion, even with material shortages, 2022 is set to be a busy year with delayed jobs from last year, new jobs this year, and a retiring (or close to retiring) population, many companies will be hiring.

If you are in need of candidates, who are moldable and eager to learn, give us a call. We would love to help.