NC Roofing Contractor study plan
NC Roofing Contractor · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 7 hours per week
Roofing Materials and Systems
Build a comparison table of low-slope membrane systems (TPO, EPDM, PVC, modified bitumen, built-up) listing seams, attachment methods, and typical warranties
Explain the differences among asphalt shingle grades and identify where each is appropriate by slope and climate exposure
Describe the components of a steep-slope roof assembly from deck to ridge and state the function of each layer
Match underlayment types to slope ranges and explain when a slip sheet or high-temperature underlayment is required
Your checkpoint
A one-page materials matrix covering at least 10 roofing systems with slope limits, seam or attachment method, and a note on NC climate suitability
Roofing Materials and Systems & Roof Installation and Application Practices
Sequence the installation steps for a steep-slope shingle roof from deck preparation through ridge cap
Calculate the number of squares, bundles, and underlayment rolls needed for a sample roof plan with hips and valleys
Describe correct flashing integration at walls, chimneys, skylights, and valleys and sketch each detail
Explain ventilation requirements for intake and exhaust and compute net free vent area for a sample attic
Your checkpoint
A written takeoff and installation sequence for a sample 40-square hip-and-valley roof, including flashing sketches and a ventilation calculation
Roof Installation and Application Practices
Demonstrate proper membrane seam preparation, cleaning, and testing methods for single-ply systems
Explain insulation attachment and fastener patterns for common low-slope assemblies and how they affect wind uplift
Describe edge metal, coping, and counterflashing installation sequences that meet wind and water requirements
Identify common application defects visible at final inspection and state the correct remediation for each
Your checkpoint
A defect-identification log of 15 application errors with the correct installation practice written beside each one
Roofing Repairs, Replacement, and Maintenance
Diagnose leak sources from interior staining patterns and map them to likely exterior defects
Write repair procedures for punctures, seam failures, flashing failures, and hail or wind damage on both steep and low-slope systems
Distinguish repairable conditions from conditions requiring full replacement and justify the recommendation
Build a preventive maintenance checklist and inspection schedule appropriate for commercial and residential clients
Your checkpoint
A two-part document: a leak-diagnosis decision guide and a 12-month preventive maintenance checklist
Roofing-Related Building Codes and Standards
Locate and apply the code provisions governing roof covering, flashing, and drainage for the occupancies you serve
State the required minimum roof slopes and the exceptions that permit alternative materials
Explain how wind, fire, and impact classification ratings affect material selection and code compliance
Describe reroofing requirements including tear-off versus overlay rules and deck repair triggers
Your checkpoint
A code-compliance checklist that a crew can carry on site, citing the specific section for each requirement
Jobsite Safety and Occupational Health
Build a fall-protection plan for a sample project identifying anchor points, warning lines, and rescue procedures
List required personal protective equipment for roofing tasks and state when each item is mandatory
Describe ladder, scaffold, and roof-edge safety practices and the inspection steps before each use
Explain hazard communication, silica and asphalt fume exposure controls, and heat-illness prevention for NC summers
Your checkpoint
A written site-specific safety plan for a sample two-story commercial reroof, including a fall-protection and rescue section
Business and Project Management & Contract Administration and Legal Requirements
Prepare a project estimate that separates labor, materials, equipment, overhead, and profit and includes a contingency line
Build a simple schedule and cash-flow projection for a 6-week roofing project and identify the critical path
Draft contract language covering scope, change orders, payment terms, liens, warranties, and dispute resolution
Explain the legal effect of lien waivers, submittals, and substantial completion on payment and risk
Your checkpoint
A complete sample contract package: estimate, schedule, and contract with change-order and lien-waiver forms
North Carolina Licensing Statutes and Board Rules
State the licensing threshold and the categories of roofing work that require a North Carolina license
Describe the license application, examination, and renewal requirements and the consequences of unlicensed contracting
Explain Board rules on advertising, supervision, financial responsibility, and handling of complaints
Outline disciplinary procedures and the penalties that may result from violations
Complete two timed practice exams and review every missed item to a written explanation
Your checkpoint
A one-page statute-and-rules summary sheet plus a scored practice exam log with written corrections for each missed question
Milestones
Week 2: Score at least 80% on a self-made 25-question quiz covering materials and installation sequencing, with every miss written out in your own words
Week 4: Complete the diagnosis guide and maintenance checklist and correctly diagnose at least 8 of 10 sample leak scenarios
Week 6: Score at least 80% on a practice exam weighted toward codes and safety, and have your site safety plan reviewed by a peer or mentor
Week 8: Score at least 85% on two full-length timed practice exams and confirm all eight domains have a written summary sheet on file