Roofers work in the sun, on slopes, on their knees and often in heat. Their knees, hands and backs take a beating. Practical gear and recovery items are the best gifts.
Knees and hands
- Knee pads, if you know the type they prefer. Many roofers have strong opinions about fit.
- Work gloves with good grip. Check size, and expect them to wear out.
- Hand cream and a good hand cleaner.
Sun, heat and water
- A large insulated bottle or a water jug that keeps water cold for hours.
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.
- A cooling towel or a neck wrap for hot days.
- Good work socks.
Recovery
- A heat pack, a foam roller or a back stretcher.
- A comfortable chair, a gift card for a meal or tickets to something they enjoy.
What to skip
- Anything that mimics safety equipment, such as harnesses or ropes. Employers and standards decide those.
- Joke shingles or "roof over my head" gifts.
- Bulky items for a truck.
- Anything that could be a trip or fall hazard on a job site.
Browse more
Look through gift ideas for other jobs.