So You Want To Be A Tiler

[DHTiling]

Want to be a tiler...then read this..

I found this article and thought it might be useful to any newbies entering the world of tiling....dave...


Learning floor and wall tiling could be a good career move
There is a shortage of good wall and floor tilers, working on surfaces ranging from patios, domestic kitchens and bathrooms to industrial premises, swimming pools, shops, hotels and offices. They use a variety of materials including ceramics, terracotta, stone, granite, marble and adhesives, choosing the most appropriate material to match the proposed use of the area, or working to plans drawn up by an architect or builder.
Tasks include:

• setting out an area
• calculating amounts of tiles and adhesives
• cutting tiles to size and shape
• levelling off surfaces with plaster, sand or cement
• fixing tiles
• applying grout.

If the project involves restoration, tilers may have to repair or remove the previous surface. So a basic knowledge of plastering can be useful. They may work in teams, and most will work on both floors and walls to increase employment opportunities. Some tilers specialise in complex or difficult work, such as mosaics.
Tilers work in a variety of locations, and spend a lot of time bending and kneeling. When using adhesives and grouts, personal protective equipment may be required. Contracts may demand working away from home.
Tilers should:

• have good practical skills
• work accurately with a careful, methodical approach
• have good numerical skills for measuring and calculating
• be creative and appreciate design, for producing or matching patterns and colours
• be able to follow technical plans
• be physically fit
• be able to work as part of a team and alone
• have a pleasant manner for dealing with clients
• be able to keep paperwork and accounts.

For adult learners most of the training will be centre-based with the possibility of some hands-on training in the workplace. A four to six week course is recommended if you are intending to make tiling your career and you can then work towards NVQs/SVQs in Wall and Floor Tiling at Levels 2 and 3. This is done by building a portfolio of evidence while in the training centre and on-site. After six months’ experience you can get an on-site assessor to assess you and help you complete the portfolio.
To achieve the NVQ/SVQ you have to be assessed as competent in several units including:

• erecting and dismantling basic working platforms
• setting out
• preparing backgrounds/surfaces
• positioning and fixing
• repairs.

Ensure that the training is delivered at the industry standard and that you get back-up after completing it. By 2010, construction workers must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or be registered with an affiliated scheme. Many organisations already require operatives to hold a relevant card which involves being registered for an NVQ or holding an NVQ/SVQ or acceptable equivalent, and passing a health and safety assessment. Experienced workers without formal qualifications can achieve an award through On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT).
For details about the CSCS scheme, contact CSCS and, for more detailed information about health and safety, training providers and OSAT, get in touch with CITB-ConstructionSkills.
Most tilers work for specialist contractors and there are increasing opportunities to work abroad. Tilers may progress to technician level or become supervisors, contract managers, or even assessors.
Self-employment can be well rewarded, with no job being exactly the same, once you have built up confidence and speed. Good self employed tilers could earn between £300 and £400 per day with most business coming through word of mouth and networking with other trades people. Pricing jobs correctly is a fundamental skill.

 

[enduro]

Re: Want to be a tiler...then read this..

Thats a very good post dh, well done keep them coming.

 

[GazTech]

Re: Want to be a tiler...then read this..

Post of the month ! do you new starters feel up to it.....what an exciting challenge,I remember at 19 going self employed ,from £120 per wk 9 to 5,to £80 per day less tax......and creating works of art.I can leave tiling but it won't leave me

 

[CLAYS TILES]

Re: Want to be a tiler...then read this..

Post of the month ! do you new starters feel up to it.....what an exciting challenge,I remember at 19 going self employed ,from £120 per wk 9 2 5,to £80 per day less tax......and creating works of art.I can leave tiling but it won't leave me

i agree with wot your saying m8!
i just done a course so i can do a career change, im a little scared at making the jump to do it full time, im on good money where i am doing hgv driving but the roads aint like they used to be, there full of idiots now!!!:sad_smile:

 

[Dan]

Re: Want to be a tiler...then read this..

I totally missed this great post. Nice one Dave.