Top 10 Questions for Composition Roofer Interview

1. What are the different types of composition roofing materials?

There are three main types of composition roofing materials:

• Asphalt shingles: These are the most common type of composition roofing material. They are made from a fiberglass mat that is coated with asphalt and then covered with mineral granules.
• Metal shingles: These shingles are made from aluminum or steel and are coated with a paint or finish. They are more durable than asphalt shingles, but they are also more expensive.
• Slate shingles: These shingles are made from natural slate and are the most durable and expensive type of composition roofing material.

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of composition roofing material?

Advantages of asphalt shingles:

• Affordable
• Easy to install
• Wide variety of colors and styles

Disadvantages of asphalt shingles:

• Not as durable as metal or slate shingles
• Can be damaged by high winds or hail
• Can fade over time

Advantages of metal shingles:

• Durable
• Fire-resistant
• Low maintenance

Disadvantages of metal shingles:

• More expensive than asphalt shingles
• Can be noisy in high winds
• Can be dented or scratched

Advantages of slate shingles:

• Durable
• Fire-resistant
• Low maintenance

Disadvantages of slate shingles:

• Expensive
• Heavy
• Difficult to install

3. What are the different factors that affect the cost of a composition roof?

The cost of a composition roof can be affected by a number of factors, including:

• The type of material used: Metal and slate shingles are more expensive than asphalt shingles.
• The size of the roof: A larger roof will cost more to cover than a smaller roof.
• The complexity of the roof: A roof with multiple slopes or valleys will cost more to cover than a simple roof.
• The labor costs in your area: Labor costs can vary depending on the location of the property.

4. What are the signs that a composition roof needs to be replaced?

There are a number of signs that a composition roof needs to be replaced, including:

• Curling or buckling shingles: This can be a sign that the shingles are no longer adhering to the roof deck.
• Missing or damaged shingles: This can allow water to penetrate the roof and cause damage to the underlying structure.
• Granules in the gutters: This can be a sign that the shingles are wearing down and losing their protective coating.
• Leaks in the roof: This is a clear sign that the roof is no longer waterproof and needs to be replaced.

5. What are the steps involved in replacing a composition roof?

The steps involved in replacing a composition roof include:

• Removing the old roofing: This involves removing the old shingles and any underlayment.
• Inspecting the roof deck: The roof deck should be inspected for any damage and repaired as necessary.
• Installing underlayment: Underlayment is a waterproof barrier that is installed on the roof deck to protect it from water damage.
• Installing the new shingles: The new shingles are installed starting at the bottom of the roof and working up.
• Trimming the shingles: The shingles are trimmed around the edges of the roof to give it a finished look.

6. What are the different types of underlayment that can be used under a composition roof?

The different types of underlayment that can be used under a composition roof include:

• Asphalt-saturated felt: This is the most common type of underlayment and is made from a fiberglass mat that is saturated with asphalt.
• Synthetic underlayment: This type of underlayment is made from a variety of materials, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, and is more expensive than asphalt-saturated felt.
• Ice and water shield: This type of underlayment is used in areas where there is a risk of ice dams and is more expensive than other types of underlayment.

7. What are the different types of flashing that can be used on a composition roof?

The different types of flashing that can be used on a composition roof include:

• Step flashing: This type of flashing is used to seal the joints between the roof and vertical surfaces, such as chimneys and walls.
• Valley flashing: This type of flashing is used to seal the joints between the roof and valleys.
• Drip edge flashing: This type of flashing is used to seal the edges of the roof and prevent water from dripping off the edge.

8. What are the different types of gutters that can be used on a composition roof?

The different types of gutters that can be used on a composition roof include:

• K-style gutters: These gutters are the most common type and are made from a single piece of metal.
• Half-round gutters: These gutters are made from a half-round piece of metal and are more decorative than K-style gutters.
• Box gutters: These gutters are made from a box-shaped piece of metal and are more expensive than other types of gutters.

9. What are the different types of downspouts that can be used on a composition roof?

The different types of downspouts that can be used on a composition roof include:

• Round downspouts: These downspouts are the most common type and are made from a round piece of metal.
• Square downspouts: These downspouts are made from a square piece of metal and are more decorative than round downspouts.
• Rectangular downspouts: These downspouts are made from a rectangular piece of metal and are more expensive than other types of downspouts.

10. What are the different types of roofing accessories that can be used on a composition roof?

The different types of roofing accessories that can be used on a composition roof include:

• Ridge vents: These vents are installed at the peak of the roof to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture from building up in the attic.
• Soffit vents: These vents are installed under the eaves of the roof to allow air to circulate and prevent moisture from building up in the attic.
• Roof jacks: These jacks are used to seal the openings around pipes and vents that penetrate the roof.
• Snow guards: These guards are installed on the roof to prevent snow from sliding off and causing damage.

Composition Roofers, also known as shingle roofers, are skilled tradespeople responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining roofs made of asphalt shingles. Their primary duties include:

1. Installation and Repair

Composition Roofers install new roofs by laying down underlayment, securing shingles, and flashing around openings. They also repair damaged roofs by replacing or patching shingles, as well as addressing leaks and other issues.

• Install new roofs using asphalt shingles
• Repair damaged roofs, including replacing shingles and fixing leaks

2. Safety and Maintenance

Composition Roofers prioritize safety by wearing appropriate protective gear and following industry standards. They also conduct regular inspections to identify potential issues and perform preventive maintenance to extend roof life.

• Wear safety gear, such as a hard hat and gloves
• Follow industry safety standards and regulations
• Inspect roofs to identify potential issues
• Perform preventive maintenance, such as cleaning gutters and removing debris

3. Material Handling and Measurement

Composition Roofers handle heavy materials, such as shingles and underlayment, and require a strong attention to detail to ensure accurate measurements. They also use specialized tools and equipment to complete their work.

• Lift and carry heavy materials, such as shingles and underlayment
• Take accurate measurements to ensure proper installation
• Use specialized tools and equipment, such as nail guns and ladders

4. Communication and Customer Service

Composition Roofers may interact with clients, architects, and other professionals. They must have good communication skills to convey information clearly and provide excellent customer service.

• Communicate with clients, architects, and other professionals
• Provide excellent customer service
• Maintain a professional and courteous demeanor

To ace an interview for a Composition Roofer position, candidates can prepare by following these tips:

1. Research the Company and Industry

Familiarize yourself with the company’s history, services, and reputation. Research the roofing industry, including current trends and best practices.

• Visit the company’s website and social media pages
• Read articles and news related to the roofing industry
• Attend industry events or webinars

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Emphasize your skills and experience that directly relate to the job requirements. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.

• Review the job description and identify the key responsibilities
• Prepare examples from your previous experience that demonstrate your abilities
• Use action verbs and specific details to describe your accomplishments

3. Prepare for Technical Questions

Anticipate questions about roofing materials, installation techniques, and safety procedures. Familiarize yourself with industry standards and best practices.

• Study different types of roofing materials and their applications
• Review installation techniques and safety procedures
• Practice answering technical questions in a clear and concise manner

4. Be Enthusiastic and Professional

Convey your enthusiasm for the roofing profession and demonstrate your commitment to delivering quality work. Maintain a professional demeanor throughout the interview.

• Express your passion for roofing and why you are interested in the position
• Dress appropriately and arrive on time for the interview
• Maintain eye contact and speak clearly and confidently