How to Become a Metal Roofing Contractor (In Illinois)

You can become a metal roofing contractor by enrolling in a roofing training program and obtaining the required licenses. According to Illinois Law, a metal roofing contractor needs either a Limited or Unlimited Roofing license to undertake any type of work.

Unfortunately, there are a few prerequisites to acquiring a license that most people ignore. We'll teach you everything there is to know about roofing licenses to make your journey easier.

Guide to Becoming a Successful Metal Roofing Contractor

The road to becoming a metal roofer certainly isn't straightforward. We've made the journey a tad bit more understandable and simpler through our outline. Follow along and understand what you need to do to become the best metal roofer in Illinois:

1. Learn About Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is more specialized compared to standard shingle roofing. Installing a metal roof requires knowledge of various installation techniques, materials, structural integrity, and building regulations. For example, a standing seam metal roof requires thorough information about joint structure and load management.

You can only become a proper metal roof installer through practical experience. You'll need to join a roofing apprenticeship or any other program to gain practical experience. When you've gathered the practical experience, start applying for a license.

2. Choose the Right Roofing License

In Illinois, both Limited and Unlimited roofing licenses allow you to install a metal roof. However, with a Limited License, you can only install a metal roof on residential units that are 8 units or fewer. With an Unlimited License, you can install metal roofs on all residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

You can get either of these licenses depending on your needs. If your plans revolve around commercial metal roofing, get an Unlimited License. Furthermore, an Unlimited License is like an upgraded version of the Residential License (Limited).

If you have the time and resources, enroll in an Illinois roofing class and go straight for the Unlimited License. Limited Licenses are only ideal for roofers who do not have any immediate plans for working on commercial or industrial projects.

3. Apply for the Roofing Exam

When you choose the right license, apply for the licensing exam. Fortunately, both the Limited and Unlimited Roofing License have the same $125 application and $248 examination fee. You can apply for the examination on the Continental Testing Services website.

You will have to fill out the application form and mail it to the IDFPR. When you've filled out the forms and applied for the exam, wait for confirmation. You should get the acceptance letter about 18 to 30 days before the exam date.

The acceptance letter includes information about the exam venue, date, and time. You also need the acceptance letter to attend the exam. If you haven't received the letter 18 to 20 days before the exam, contact CTS.

4. Prepare for the Roofing Exam

The certification program for becoming a licensed metal roofer isn't easy. The Illinois roofing exam is exceptionally hard, especially for first-time test takers and novices. The exam tests your knowledge of 7 to 8 different categories, including roofing techniques, procedures, laws, safety measures, etc.

You can only pass the exam after thorough preparation and studying the source material. This becomes a daunting task for most people because they have no clue about the proper way to prepare for the 105 Roofing Exam. If you belong to that category, join our roofing classes.

We prepare you for the exam and all the steps that come after it. Our classes include lectures, practice tests, and guides on how to apply for and obtain a roofing license. Give your career a well-deserved boost with our roofing classes today.

5. Get the License

You'll have to fill in the licensure application form after you've passed the exam. Some people do it before the exam, others do it after, it's more of a personal convenience. Nevertheless, you'll have to send proof of your passing grade to the IDFPR with a filled-out application form.

You'll also have to acquire the relevant surety bonds and insurance. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Surety Bond of $10000 for Limited License
• Surety Bond of $25000 for Unlimited License
• Workers' Compensation Insurance
• General Liability Insurance

The IDFPR will review your application and issue a license accordingly. The process is a bit tedious for new entrants in the roofing industry because of the odd process. Nevertheless, if you're worried about the process, we explain it all in detail in our classes.

6. Join a Team or Find Metal Roofing Projects

When you acquire the license, start looking for jobs. You can start using different marketing tactics to get commercial roofing jobs. If you want to work with a company, use:

• ZIP Recruiter
• Indeed
• Glassdoor
• Indeed
• People Per Hour

You can find hundreds of others job boards across the internet. If you want a surefire chance at a job, visit your local roofing companies and see if they're hiring.

How Much Do Metal Roofing Contractors Make?

Metal roofing contractors make between $25 and $30 per hour in the US. The average salary for roofers varies based on location, skill level, and the average cost of labor in a particular area. Metal roofing contractors generally make more than asphalt shingle roofers because of their higher technical skill levels.

The metal roofing industry is quite profitable for both new and experienced licensed roofers. You can become a metal roofing contractor with both an Unlimited and Limited Roofing License. However, the major difference is that Unlimited License holders have more opportunities.

FAQs for Metal Roofers

What is the hardest roof to build?

Mansard and Gambrel roofs are the hardest to build because of their complex structure. These roofs require in-depth training and understanding of heavy roofing materials, structure, and balance. You must be an experienced roofer to understand the proper installation techniques.

What is the toughest roofing material?

The toughest roofing material is slate. Slate roofs can last over 100 years, resist fire, and extreme weather, and require minimal maintenance. Its density and durability make it ideal for longevity, though it is heavy and requires reinforced structural support.

Is metal roofing profitable?

Yes, metal roofing is often considered one of the most profitable specializations for new and old roofers. Metal roofing requires a certain level of skill that most roofers lack. The high skill threshold means that metal roofing contractors can make more than $30 per hour.

Bottom Line on Becoming a Successful Metal Roofer

You can become a metal roofing contractor by acquiring a Limited or Unlimited License. Both of these allow you to work on metal roofing products and projects. However, the Unlimited License is more profitable because it allows you to work on commercial, industrial, and residential properties.

You can get your roofing license by passing the Illinois 105 Roofing Exam and fulfilling surety and insurance requirements. When you receive the license, scour online job boards for potential companies or find projects through diverse marketing for your own company.

We know it might seem confusing because of the paperwork and all the clumsy steps. But we're here to tell you that it doesn't have to be confusing or hard. We teach you how to get your license, set up your business, and score lucrative jobs at Illinois Roofing Institute. Join our roofing classes today to become a successful metal roofer