International Federation for the Roofing Trade (IFD)

The International Federation for the Roofing Trade, known by its German initials IFD (Internationale Föderation des Dachdeckerhandwerks), is an umbrella body that links national roofing trade associations across many countries. It was founded in 1952 and is registered in Germany, where its office is located in the town of Rees in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Unlike a national association, the IFD does not usually sign up individual roofing firms as its core members. Its members are mainly the national federations of roofers and roofing contractors, along with associated partners such as manufacturers and trade media. It acts as a meeting point where roofing organisations from Europe, North America, Asia and elsewhere compare practices, training systems and technical rules.

Activities

• Annual Congress. The IFD holds a congress each year in a different host country. The 73rd congress took place in Bratislava, Slovakia, in October 2025.
• Young roofer competition. The federation runs an international competition for young roofers, often called the World Championship of Young Roofers. Teams compete in flat (low-slope) roofing, pitched roofing and metal roofing disciplines. A competition in Budapest, Hungary, is planned for 2027.
• Working groups. Members meet in working groups on technical subjects and on training, and the federation supports the development of technical standards and shared guidance.
• Awards. The IFD presents awards recognising outstanding roofing projects submitted by member countries.

Why it matters

Roofing traditions differ widely from country to country. Slate and tile details used in central Europe, single-ply membranes common in North America and metal roofing systems used in Scandinavia all depend on local climate, codes and training. The IFD gives these traditions a forum where contractors can see how other countries train apprentices, organise safety, and approach new issues such as rooftop solar and green roofs. For a homeowner, the IFD itself is not a licensing or certification body; local national associations remain the main point of contact.