Education and training requirements for Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishersThe vast majority of carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers learn their trade informally, on the job, as helpers to experienced workers. Others learn through formal apprenticeship programs, which include on-the-job training as well as related classroom instruction. Informal training for carpet installers often is sponsored by individual contractors. Workers start as helpers, and begin with simple assignments, such as installing stripping and padding, or helping to stretch newly installed carpet. With experience, helpers take on more difficult assignments, such as measuring, cutting, and fitting. Persons who wish to begin a career in carpet installation as a helper or apprentice should be at least 18 years old and have good manual dexterity. Many employers prefer applicants with a high school diploma; courses in general mathematics and shop are helpful. Some employers may require a driver�s license and a criminal background check. Because carpet installers frequently deal directly with customers, they should be courteous and tactful. Many tile and floor layers learn their job through on-the-job training and begin by learning about the tools of the trade. They next learn to prepare surfaces to receive flooring. As they progress, tilesetters, marble setters, and floor layers learn to cut and install tile, marble, and floor coverings. Tile and marble setters also learn to apply grout and to do finishing work. Apprenticeship programs and some contractor-sponsored programs provide comprehensive training in all phases of the tilesetting and floor layer trades. Most apprenticeship programs are union-sponsored and consist of weekly classes and on-the-job training usually lasting 3 to 4 years. When hiring apprentices or helpers for floor layer and tilesetter jobs, employers usually prefer high school graduates who have had courses in general mathematics, mechanical drawing, and shop. Good physical condition, manual dexterity, and a good sense of color harmony also are important assets. Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers may advance to positions as supervisors or become salespersons or estimators. Some carpet installers may become managers for large installation firms. Many carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers who begin working for a large contractor eventually go into business for themselves as independent subcontractors. More information on Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers occupation Number of Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers Working conditions for Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers Significant points for Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers Training requirements for Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |