Roofer - Exam Information
Table of Contents
Self-Assessment
This tool can be used to reflect on your own experience and knowledge in the trade compared with what is on the exam.
Exam Breakdown
Each Red Seal exam's questions are developed to assess the activities laid out in the Red Seal Occupational Standard. This trade's Red Seal exam has 125 questions Footnote *, which are distributed as follows:
Major Work Activity A - Performs common occupational skills - 23 questions
Major Work Activity B - Prepares roof and deck - 18 questions
Major Work Activity C - Installs low slope roofing - 38 questions
Major Work Activity D - Installs steep slope roofing - 17 questions
Major Work Activity E - Waterproofs and damp-proofs surfaces - 12 questions
Major Work Activity F - Assesses, maintains and repairs roof - 17 questions
Types of Exam Questions
All Red Seal exam questions are written in multiple-choice format. A multiple-choice question consists of question followed by four possible responses (A, B, C, D). Every question has exactly one correct answer and three incorrect options. They are not misleading or trick questions, but the incorrect options are not always obvious.
There are three types of questions that you will see on Red Seal Exams:
- Knowledge and Recall
- Procedural and Application
- Critical Thinking
Knowledge and Recall
This type of question tests your ability to recall and understand definitions, facts and principles.
For this trade, between 15 and 25% of questions that are this type.
Example of a Knowledge and Recall Question:
Why is the perimeter detail sealed to the vapour barrier?
- To prevent moisture from entering the system.
- To protect the roof deck from damage.
- To provide a good base for insulation.
- To prevent asphalt leakage.
Answer: A
Procedural and Application
This type of question tests your ability to apply your knowledge of procedures to a situation.
For this trade, between 60 and 70% of questions are this type.
Example of a Procedural and Application Question:
When a wrinkle occurs through a side lap of a thermoplastic membrane, what is done to repair it?
- Heat and reweld.
- Apply lap sealant to the side lap.
- Cut the wrinkle and weld together.
- Cut and weld a patch over the wrinkle.
Answer: D
Critical Thinking
This type of question tests your ability to interpret data, solve problems and arrive at valid conclusions.
For this trade, between 10 and 20% of questions are this type.
Example of a Critical Thinking Question:
What is the result if end closures are not installed on a concrete tile roof?
- Ventilation needs are surpassed.
- Detracts from aesthetics.
- Snow and moisture enter the structures.
- Reduced fire-retardant classification.
Answer: C
Try more sample questions for this trade and check out the Exam Preparation Guide. It will give you practical insights on what goes into Red Seal exams, and how you can best prepare yourself to do well.
For more information about exam preparation materials contact your provincial/territorial apprenticeship office.