The golden trade: How high is a roofer's salary?

*The image was AI-generated for illustrative purposes.

Roofify clarifies: facts, myths, and real perspectives on roofer salaries.

Why the roofing trade is indispensable

The roofing trade is one of the oldest and most important crafts in Germany. A professionally built roof not only protects against weather and energy loss but also preserves the value of every property.

In the course of the energy transition, roofers today take on central tasks: energetic renovations, photovoltaic installations, and sustainable green roofs make the profession future-proof. The demand for qualified roofers is increasing nationwide.

What does a roofer really earn?

There are many myths surrounding roofer salaries. Roofify shows how salaries are actually developing and what career advancement opportunities exist.

Myth 1: Roofers earn little

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

Myth 2: Few career opportunities

On the contrary: From roofing apprentice to master roofer, there are several career levels, each with significant salary jumps. Modern offerings such as the online master craftsman school facilitate professional advancement.

Salary overview: Roofer salary 2026

The following average values vary depending on the region, company size, experience, and additional benefits.

Apprentice remuneration: Roofing apprentice

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

Roofing apprenticeships are among the best-paid craft apprenticeships in Germany.

Starting salary: Journeyman

• 2,500 – 3,000 € gross/month

In regions like Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, or Hamburg, salaries are usually at the upper end.

Salary of an experienced journeyman

• 3,000 – 3,600 € gross/month

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

Salary of a master roofer

• 3,800 – 5,000 € gross/month

Many master craftsmen take on leadership positions as construction managers, project managers, or operations managers. Salaries over 5,000 € gross are not uncommon there. Self-employment also offers potential for above-average income.

Regional salary differences

• Southern Germany: Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria pay on average 10–20% more. There is a high shortage of skilled workers here, and the cost of living is correspondingly higher.
• Northern Germany: Hamburg, Bremen, Schleswig-Holstein offer solid wages, often above collective bargaining rates.
• Western Germany: NRW, Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate show slight differences between urban and rural areas, generally good pay.
• Eastern Germany: Wages are sometimes slightly lower, but have significantly converged in recent years and continue to rise.

Additional benefits in the roofing trade

In addition to salary, many companies offer attractive benefits to attract and retain qualified skilled workers.

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

Holiday and Christmas bonuses are now standard in many companies.

Working hours: How many hours does a roofer work?

The collectively agreed weekly working hours are about 37 to 40 hours, depending on the region and company. During peak season, overtime may occur, which is compensated according to collective agreements.

Future prospects: Roofer profession 2026

The energy transition ensures a continuously high demand for roofers, especially for:

• Photovoltaics
• Insulation
• Roof renovations
• Energy modernization
• Green roofs

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

Video: Roofer apprenticeship – salary and daily life

Career opportunities and further training

Digitalization opens up new avenues, for example, through the Online Master Craftsman School. Those aiming for a master craftsman title can now find flexible, often part-time models.

The costs for the master craftsman school range between €6,000 and €12,000 depending on the provider and duration. Funding programs like the Upgrading BAföG significantly reduce the financial burden.

A profession with a future and prospects

The roofing trade is a future-proof, well-paid profession with clear career advancement opportunities and attractive additional benefits. From roofing apprentice to journeyman to master roofer, the profession offers numerous development opportunities.

Anyone who appreciates physical work and is looking for a meaningful profession will find a real golden opportunity in the roofing trade – especially with modern further training paths like the Online Master Craftsman School or the Master Craftsman School for Roofers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a roofer earn in Germany in 2026?

The starting salary for a journeyman in 2026 is approximately €2,500 – €3,000 gross per month. With experience and qualifications, the salary for an experienced journeyman can rise to €3,000 – €3,600. Master roofers typically earn €3,800 – €5,000 gross, with potential for more in leadership positions.

What is the apprentice remuneration for roofers?

The collectively agreed apprentice remuneration is approximately €900 – €1,050 in the 1st year, €1,050 – €1,200 in the 2nd year, and €1,200 – €1,400 gross per month in the 3rd year (as of 2026).

What additional benefits are available for roofers?

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

How many hours does a roofer work per week?

The regular collectively agreed weekly working hours are approximately 37 to 40 hours. During peak season, overtime may occur, which is compensated according to collective agreements.

What are the career opportunities in the roofing trade?

From apprentice to journeyman to master roofer, there are clear career levels with increasing salaries. Further training, such as the online master craftsman school, facilitates advancement.

How much does the master craftsman school for roofers cost?

The costs range between €6,000 and €12,000 depending on the provider and duration. Funding programs like Upgrading BAföG can significantly reduce the costs.

Does the roofing trade have a future?

Yes, the demand for roofers remains high in the long term due to the energy transition, energetic renovations, and photovoltaic installations.