A career as a tiler blends elements of construction with design and tilers are in demand across all sectors of domestic construction and design and also commercial and industrial projects. So let’s have a look at what a tiler actually does and how your career as a tiler can develop.
What does a Tiler do?
Tilers are essentially involved in covering designated areas of surface with tiles, or similar products, to achieve a predefined construction, design or artistic objective. In your career as a tiler you will need to have a good knowledge of surface dynamics, drainage and also the durability of various surfaces.
In your job as a tiler on a construction project, you will generally be responsible for:
- Cutting tiles and shaping them so they fit and cover the designated surface space
- Using plaster and other materials, form tile beds using trowels, screeds and brushes
- Ensuring tiles are aligned correctly and performing any necessary adjustments or modifications
- Preparing and coating various tiled surfaces with waterproofed materials
- Creating decorative wall and floor designs to pre-existing plans
- Understanding and interpreting plans and designs
Responsibilities
Tilers are generally involved in the post-construction phase of any project but in your career as a tiler you will often work alongside those in other roles, such as:
- Bricklayer
- Roofer
- Glazier
- Architect
- Carpenter
- Plumber
- Site manager
- Construction labourer
- Foreperson
- Health & safety
- QA/QC engineer
Professional Qualifications
One of the most common routes is via apprenticeships, where trainee tilers learn the role ‘on the job’ with a tiling firm and also study for their recognised qualification in college over 7 phases of work and college based education. Once you have established yourself as a tiler, you can apply for membership of bodies such as the National Guild of Master Craftsmen in Ireland and become involved in the Construction Industry Federation. It is also recommended to develop a knowledge of some aspects of interior design, which can add to your portfolio when looking for work in this area. Due to innovation within this sector, constant training and upskilling in new methodologies, materials and equipment is advised if you are to have a successful career as a tiler.
How your Career can Develop
In your career as a tiler, you can expect to work on large scale construction projects and also on smaller, bespoke residential jobs. A good knowledge of some aspects of interior design, and how various materials work within various built environments is also recommended. When you have established yourself as a reliable tiler, with a good body of completed work, you can set up your own business and specialise in a particular area.