The golden trade: How much does a roofer earn?

*The image was AI-generated for illustrative purposes.

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

Why roofing is indispensable

Roofing is one of the oldest and most important skilled trades in Germany. A professionally constructed 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 are making the profession future-proof. Demand for qualified roofers is rising nationwide.

What does a roofer really earn?

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

Myth 1: Roofers earn little

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

Myth 2: Few opportunities for advancement

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

Salary overview: roofer salary 2026

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

Apprenticeship 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

Roofer apprenticeships are therefore among the best-paid skilled trade apprenticeships in Germany.

Starting salary: junior roofer

• €2,500 - €3,000 gross/month

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

Salary of an experienced roofer

• €3,000 - €3,600 gross/month

More responsibility, experience, or specializations (e.g. flat roofs, PV installation) can lead to a higher salary.

Salary of a master roofer

• €3,800 - €5,000 gross/month

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

Regional Salary Differences

• Southern Germany: Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria pay an average of 10–20% more. There is a severe shortage of skilled workers here, and the cost of living is correspondingly higher.
• Northern Germany: Hamburg, Bremen, and Schleswig-Holstein offer solid wages, often above the collectively agreed 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 sometimes slightly lower, but they have converged significantly in recent years and continue to rise.

Additional Benefits in the Roofing Trade

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

• Holiday bonus
• Christmas bonus
• Employer-matched savings 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 collectively agreed weekly working hours are around 37 to 40 hours, depending on the region and company. During the peak season, overtime may be required, which is compensated in accordance with the collective agreement.

Future Prospects: The Roofing Profession in 2026

The energy transition is driving consistently high demand for roofers, particularly for:

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

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

Video: Training as a Roofer – Salary and Daily Routine

Career Opportunities and Further Training

Digitalization is opening up new opportunities, such as through the online master craftsman school. Those pursuing the master craftsman qualification can now find flexible models, often alongside their jobs.

The cost of master craftsman school ranges from €6,000 to €12,000, depending on the provider and duration. Funding programs such as Aufstiegs-BAföG significantly reduce the financial burden.

A Career with a Future and Prospects

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

Those who value physical work and are looking for a meaningful career will find a real golden opportunity in the roofing trade - especially with modern training pathways such as the Online Master School or the Master School for Roofers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a roofer earn in Germany in 2026?

The starting salary for a junior journeyman is approximately €2,500 - €3,000 gross per month in 2026. With experience and qualifications, a senior journeyman's salary can rise to €3,000 - €3,600. Master roofers generally earn €3,800 - €5,000 gross, with the potential for more in management positions.

How much is the training wage for roofers?

The collectively agreed training wage is approximately €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 businesses offer vacation 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 the peak season, overtime may occur and is compensated in accordance with collective agreements.

What are the career advancement opportunities in the roofing trade?

There are clear career stages from apprentice to journeyman to master roofer, with increasing salaries. Further training, such as the online master school, makes career advancement easier.

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 costs.

Does the roofing trade 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.