Tiler
Job Description:Tilers tile walls and floors in kitchens, bathrooms, shops and restaurants, using materials like ceramics, slate and marble.
Job Category:What you will do:
Day-to-day, you will:
- talk to the client about the materials they want to use
- repair or remove old tiles and surfaces
- prepare surfaces by levelling off with plaster, sand or cement
- mark out the area to estimate the amount of tiles and adhesive needed
- cut tiles to size and shape with hand-cutters or bench-mounted tools
- fix tiles in place and apply adhesives before finishing
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of building and construction
- knowledge of maths
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work on your own
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to work well with your hands
- the ability to organise your time and workload (organisational skills)
Entry Requirements:
To become a tiler, you don’t typically need specific qualifications, but certain subjects and skills can be valuable in preparing for this career. Tiling is a skilled trade that involves installing tiles on surfaces such as floors and walls. Here are some relevant subjects and skills:
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for measuring and calculating dimensions, areas, and tile quantities accurately.
- Design and Technology: Courses related to design and technology can help you develop practical skills in working with tools and equipment, which are essential for tiling tasks.
- Art and Design: Developing an eye for aesthetics and attention to detail is crucial for creating visually pleasing tile patterns and layouts.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Proficiency in using computers can be beneficial for reading technical drawings and patterns, accessing online resources, and documenting work.
- English: Effective communication skills are important for understanding and following instructions, working with clients, and interacting with colleagues.
- Construction or Carpentry: If your school offers courses in construction or carpentry, these can provide a solid foundation for understanding building structures and surfaces on which tiles are installed.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
College
You could take a college course to learn some of the skills needed to do this job. UK courses include:
- Level 1 Certificate in Wall and Floor Tiling
- Level 2 Diploma in Wall and Floor Tiling
Some colleges offer short courses in tiling that you can try before deciding whether to take a longer course that leads to a qualification.
Apprenticeship
You can get into this career through a wall and floor tiling intermediate apprenticeship.
Work
You may be able to start work as a site labourer or tiler’s ‘mate’ and do further training on the job to qualify as a tiler.
Working Hours and Environment:
Typically you could work 42 to 44 hours a week, occasionally including evenings or weekends.
You could work at a client’s home, at a client’s business or on a construction site.
Your working environment may be dusty, noisy and physically demanding.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience and extra training, you could become a site supervisor, clerk of works, estimator or contract manager.
You could also work as a trainer and assessor on tiling courses, teach at a further education college, or set up your own business.