Facade renovation

What does a facade renovator do? – tasks and work environment

A facade renovator works on maintaining, repairing, and renewing the exterior shell of buildings. Tasks include washing, repairing, and plastering facades, replacing damaged materials, and applying new paint or plaster. The profession requires great precision, understanding of construction techniques, and knowledge of various materials such as brick, plaster, stone, and concrete. Work is often performed outdoors, at high elevations, and sometimes under varying weather conditions, requiring good physical fitness and safety awareness. Collaboration with other construction professionals is common, and projects range from minor repairs to major renovations of historic or modern buildings.

Salary development over time

The salary development for facade renovators has been clearly positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,900 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 35 500 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has further increased to 36 400 SEK, representing an approximate 11% increase since 2022. The trend reflects increased demand for construction and renovation services, especially in the growing segments of energy efficiency and maintenance of older properties. Facade renovators with specialized skills or experience from larger projects often have an easier time negotiating higher salaries, and the general shortage of qualified construction workers has further contributed to wage increases. Regional variations may occur depending on the construction cycle, but the overall trend is upward.

Facade renovator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (female), 35,300 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 38,900 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education, up to 2 years), 35,700 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 219 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender pay gap: Men earn 36 500 SEK, women 35,200 SEK (women = 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found within the regional sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a facade renovator, a high school education in construction and civil engineering is usually required, preferably with specialization in masonry or similar crafts. Many employers also view supplementary courses and certifications in occupational safety and health positively. Practical experience on construction sites is highly valuable, and it is common to start as an apprentice or through internships before taking on independent tasks. For certain tasks, special training certificates or permits may be required, such as for work at heights.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, 3 years
• Internship/Apprenticeship: Common for obtaining professional certification
• Certifications: Work at heights, scaffolding, hot work
• Additional courses: Material knowledge, occupational safety
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, precision, and safety awareness

Common benefits and compensations

Facade renovators are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pensions, insurances, and sick pay. Many workplaces also offer work clothing, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training. Travel to and from the worksite and per diems may be provided when working in different locations, and some employers also offer bonuses upon project completion or for extra shifts.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the facade renovation profession is moderate and mainly influenced by the overall construction cycle. The demand for experienced and certified facade renovators is relatively high, especially in larger cities and regions with many older buildings. Challenges include physically demanding tasks, working at heights, and exposure to weather conditions. Safety regulations are strict, and the work environment can be strenuous, requiring personal discipline and attention to detail. Technological development and new materials may also change the profession over time, necessitating continuous skills development.

Tips for aspiring facade renovators

To succeed as a facade renovator, it is beneficial to have a strong sense of precision and patience, as the work often requires attention to detail. Being resilient and physically fit is important, as workdays can be long and the environment demanding. Initiative and responsibility are valued by employers, especially in following safety routines and handling tools. Collaboration skills are also key, since projects are often carried out in teams and in cooperation with other trades. Finally, curiosity about new techniques and materials is advantageous, as the industry constantly evolves and demands new competencies.

Key facts about facade renovators

• Education level: High school education, often Construction and civil engineering program
• Work environment: Outdoor work, often at heights
• Work type: Full-time, sometimes seasonal
• Demand: 379 job openings within the profession in 2024
• Special skills: Material knowledge, safety certificates

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a facade renovator can advance to supervisory roles, such as site supervisor or specialist in cultural building preservation. Some choose to further their education to become construction engineers or start their own construction business. According to the Employment Service, the future outlook is good, especially in metropolitan areas and regions with many older buildings in need of renovation. The increasing demand for energy efficiency and preservation of cultural heritage drives growth in the field, and the shortage of qualified workers means newly trained professionals have good employment opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about facade renovators

• What is the average salary of a facade renovator?
  - A facade renovator has an average salary of 36 400 SEK per month.
• How does the salary difference between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 36 500 SEK, while women earn 35,200 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What is the highest salary for a facade renovator?
  - The highest salary is 38,900 SEK per month for men in the regional sector and 35,700 SEK for women.
• What education is required to become a facade renovator?
  - High school education in construction and civil engineering is most common, often with practical training or apprenticeship.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The outlook is good with 379 job openings and continued high demand.
• What benefits are common for facade renovators?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, insurances, work clothing, and wellness contributions.
• What is the working environment like for a facade renovator?
  - The work environment is often outdoors, at high elevations, and can be physically demanding.