The golden trade: How much does a roofer earn?

*The image was AI-generated for illustrative purposes.

Roofify sets the record straight: facts, myths, and real prospects around roofer salaries.

Why roofing is indispensable

Roofing is one of the oldest and most important trades in Germany. A professionally built roof not only protects against the elements and energy loss, but also preserves the value of every property.

As part of the energy transition, roofers now take on key tasks: energy-efficient renovations, photovoltaic installations, and sustainable green roofs make this a future-proof career. Demand for qualified roofers is rising nationwide.

How much does a roofer really earn?

There are many myths surrounding roofer salaries. Roofify explains how salaries are actually changing and what career advancement opportunities are available.

Myth 1: Roofers earn little

That is no longer true. Thanks to clear collective bargaining agreements, attractive additional benefits, and a shortage of skilled workers, salaries have risen significantly in recent years.

Myth 2: Few career advancement opportunities

Quite the opposite: From roofer apprentice to master roofer, there are several career stages, each with significant salary increases. Modern options such as online master craftsman courses make career advancement easier.

Salary overview: Roofer salaries in 2026

The following averages vary depending on region, company size, experience, and additional benefits.

Apprentice pay: Roofer apprentice

• 1st year: €900 – €1,050 gross/month
• 2nd year: €1,050 – €1,200 gross/month
• 3rd year: €1,200 – €1,400 gross/month

This makes roofer apprenticeships some of the best-paid vocational training programs in Germany.

Starting salary: Newly qualified roofer

• €2,500 – €3,000 gross/month

In regions such as Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, or Hamburg, salaries are usually at the higher end.

Salary of an experienced roofer

• €3,000 – €3,600 gross/month

With more responsibility, experience, or specializations (e.g., flat roofing, PV installation), a higher salary is possible.

Salary of a master roofer

• €3,800 – €5,000 gross/month

Many master craftsmen take on senior roles as construction managers, project managers, or business managers. Salaries of over €5,000 gross are not uncommon in these positions. Self-employment also offers the potential to earn an above-average income.

Regional Salary Differences

• Southern Germany: Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria pay an average of 10–20% more. Skilled workers are in high demand here, and the cost of living is correspondingly higher.
• Northern Germany: Hamburg, Bremen, and Schleswig-Holstein offer solid wages, often above the standard rate.
• Western Germany: North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse, and Rhineland-Palatinate show slight differences between urban and rural areas, with good pay overall.
• Eastern Germany: Wages are somewhat lower in some areas, but have converged significantly in recent years and continue to rise.

Additional Benefits in the Roofing Trade

In addition to salary, many companies offer attractive benefits to recruit and retain qualified professionals.

• Holiday bonus
• Christmas bonus
• Capital-forming benefits
• Fuel vouchers
• Bonuses for good performance or low absenteeism

Holiday and Christmas bonuses are now standard at many companies.

Working Hours: How Many Hours Does a Roofer Work?

The standard working week is around 37 to 40 hours, depending on the region and employer. During peak season, overtime may be required and is compensated in accordance with the collective agreement.

Outlook: Roofing Profession in 2026

The energy transition is driving sustained demand for roofers, particularly for:

• Photovoltaics
• Insulation
• Roof renovations
• Energy-efficient upgrades
• Green roofs

The profession remains stable in the long term and is becoming increasingly attractive.

Video: Roofing Apprenticeship - Salary and Day-to-Day Work

Career Advancement and Further Training

Digitalization opens up new options, such as the online master craftsman school. Those seeking a master craftsman qualification can now choose flexible programs, often designed to fit around work.

Depending on the provider and duration, master craftsman training costs between €6,000 and €12,000. Funding programs such as the Upgrading BAföG significantly reduce the financial burden.

A Career with a Future and Prospects

Roofing is a future-proof, well-paid profession with clear advancement opportunities and attractive additional benefits. From roofer apprentice to journeyman to master roofer, the profession offers numerous opportunities for growth.

Those who value physical work and are looking for a meaningful profession will find a real golden opportunity in roofing, especially with modern training options such as Online Trade School or Trade School for Roofers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a roofer earn in Germany in 2026?

In 2026, the starting salary for a newly qualified journeyman is about €2,500 – €3,000 gross per month. With experience and qualifications, a senior journeyman can earn €3,000 – €3,600. Master roofers generally earn €3,800 – €5,000 gross, with the potential for more in management positions.

How much do roofer apprentices earn?

The collectively agreed training salary is about €900 – €1,050 in the first year, €1,050 – €1,200 in the second year, and €1,200 – €1,400 gross per month in the third year (as of 2026).

What additional benefits are available to roofers?

Many companies offer vacation pay, Christmas bonuses, capital-forming benefits, fuel vouchers, and bonuses for good performance or low absenteeism.

How many hours a week does a roofer work?

The standard collectively agreed working week is about 37 to 40 hours. During the busy season, overtime may be required, which is compensated in accordance with the collective agreement.

What are the career advancement opportunities in roofing?

From apprentice to journeyman to master roofer, there are clear career stages with increasing salaries. Further training, such as online trade school, makes it easier to advance.

How much does trade school for roofers cost?

Depending on the provider and duration, costs range from €6,000 to €12,000. Funding programs such as Aufstiegs-BAföG can significantly reduce the cost.

Does roofing have a future?

Yes, demand for roofers will remain high in the long term due to the energy transition, energy-efficient renovations, and photovoltaic installations.