An Assessment of the Asphalt Shingle Roofing Process for Residential Buildings

Abstract

Asphalt shingle roofing is performed by specialty contractors in the construction industry with the roofing crew performing tasks in different areas on the roof simultaneously. While asphalt shingle roofing materials have improved, the roofing construction process has not changed significantly over the past 70 years. This paper describes the process, factors that affect the productivity of the workers, and methods for calculating productivity in terms of man-hours worked and cost per unit output. Safety is also a concern in roofing. While falls from roofs are a major cause of injuries on the construction job site, other injuries common to roofers include sprains and strains to the back, knees and ankles. The trend of constructing steep roofs, common in Texas high end residential homes, are implicated in these injuries. Safety plans and worker safety climate are low priorities for financially strapped construction companies. Designing out the hazard would be more effective than Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in preventing accidents in the roofing industry. The paper concludes that research and development are needed to improve roofing construction methods to provide a safe and healthy environment for the worker and reduce costs of construction.