When temperatures rise and the sun blazes, the rooftop workplace becomes a real heat trap. Roofers are particularly at risk because they often work for hours in direct sunlight, on reflective materials, and without natural shade. It's not just about comfort; it's primarily about occupational safety , performance, and health. With the right workwear , smart behavior, and a little preparation, many problems can be avoided. Here are the top 10 tips from Roof PRO on how to stay cool in the heat—in both senses of the word.
1. Drink regularly and sufficiently – before you get thirsty
It sounds banal, but it's essential for survival: Anyone who does physical work sweats. In hot weather, the body loses up to 1.5 liters of fluid per hour. Drinking is not a luxury, but a must. Don't wait until you're thirsty —that's a warning sign. Water, spritzers , or electrolyte drinks are ideal. Avoid coffee, energy drinks, or cola—they dehydrate more than they help.
Tip: Keep a large water bottle in the shade and a small bottle within easy reach. Drink every 15–20 minutes.
2. Wear light and breathable work clothes
Dark clothing attracts heat. Modern workwear, like Snickers' workwear, relies on breathable fabrics and functional cuts. Special T-shirts with UV protection or mesh inserts ensure your body can breathe even under stress. Also look for lightweight yet durable work trousers that won't make you sweat.
Good to know: Clothing with integrated UV protection is a real game changer in the summer heat.
3. Always wear a beanie / tube scarf or a cap
The head is particularly susceptible to overheating. Sunstroke can strike sooner than you think – dizziness, headaches, or nausea are the first symptoms. A light cap or beanie/ snood provides effective protection, can absorb sweat, and cool the head.
Extra tip: Cooling inserts or wet wipes under the cap provide additional refreshment.
4. Start earlier and avoid the midday heat
The blazing midday sun between 12 and 3 p.m. is particularly critical for roofing work. If possible, plan your work hours so that you start early in the morning and use the hottest part of the day for less stressful activities —such as sorting materials or doing storage work in the shade.
Caution: Anyone standing on the roof around midday is exposed to the strongest UV radiation – sunburn and heatstroke are inevitable.
5. Use sunscreen – even if it's annoying
Many tradespeople ignore this issue, but sunscreen is a real lifesaver. UV radiation promotes skin cancer – and the risk is especially high for roof workers. Use at least SPF 30, preferably 50, and apply it generously to your arms, neck, face, and ears. Reapply every two hours. Sunscreen sprays and gels are especially suitable for athletes!
Tip: Sun sprays and sun gels are particularly suitable for athletes!!
6. Know the symptoms of heat stroke and sunstroke
Knowledge saves lives. The first warning signs are: headache, dizziness, nausea, rapid heart rate, or hot, dry skin. Then immediately get off the roof, go into the shade, drink water, cool down—and if in doubt, call a doctor. Heatstroke is a medical emergency!
Remember: If you recognize the symptoms, you can take countermeasures in time and prevent things from getting worse.
7. Take regular breaks – in the shade
Physical work in the sun is very demanding on the body. Plan your breaks consciously —not just by standing against a wall, but by sitting or lying in the shade. This is the only way your circulation can recover. A damp hat or a cold cloth on the back of your neck can also help.
Tip: A mobile sun protection, such as a gazebo or umbrella on the scaffolding, can work wonders.
Video: Scorching heat on the construction site? - Consider these 10 points.
8. Protect your eyes with sunglasses
Reflections on metal, glass, or asphalt can cause permanent eye damage. Wear high-quality sunglasses with UV protection or use visors with tinted lenses. This not only improves your vision but also protects against long-term vision problems.
Don't forget: Cheap glasses without UV protection are dangerous - they dilate the pupils without offering any protection.
9. Use cooling vests and towels – the clever workwear extension
In addition to lightweight workwear, there are smart products like cooling vests that cool the upper body through evaporative cooling. Towels dipped in water are also simple but effective aids. They're ideal for wearing around the neck or under a helmet.
Market leaders such as Snickers Workwear offer innovative summer solutions – from ventilation jackets to cooling underwear.
10. Talk to your team about heat risks and look out for each other
No matter how well prepared you are, the whole team needs to pull together in extreme heat. Communicate openly about your well-being, rotate shifts regularly, and watch for the first signs of overheating in colleagues. Workplace safety starts with mutual respect - #SafetyFirst!
Golden rule: It's better to ask "Are you okay?" once too often than once too few.
Conclusion: Staying cool is mandatory, not optional
Working on a roof is already a challenge – in the sun and heat, it becomes a physical challenge. Those who don't take care of themselves risk more than just sunburn. Therefore , clever planning, high-quality workwear (such as Snickers), plenty of water, sunscreen , and a good team are essential. Modern solutions such as breathable T-shirts, caps with UV protection, and functional workwear help you get through the summer safely and healthily.
Because: A cool head on the roof is not only pleasant – it is vital.
