Skills Competitions

Wall and Floor Tiling

The tiler works internally and externally, including in the homes of customers and on building sites, in all weather conditions, and on small and major projects. The work includes the laying of tiles of ceramics, mosaic, and natural stone on walls, floors, and staircases in houses, commercial, industrial, and public buildings, churches, swimming pools, outside installations and façades to provide protective, and decorative finishes. It also includes the construction of small walls and steps from bricks or blocks.

The tiler will interpret drawings, set out and measure, remove any existing covering, prepare surfaces, lay the tiles in the desired pattern, grout, and finish to a high standard. Work organization and self-management, communication and interpersonal skills, problem solving, innovation and creativity, and working accurately are the universal attributes of the outstanding tiler. Whether the tiler is working alone (many are self-employed or sub-contractors) or in a team on large projects, the individual takes on a high level of personal responsibility and autonomy. Experienced tilers may also specialize in one area of work such as mosaics and they can work for specialist tiling firms specializing for example in artistic work or competition swimming pools.

From working safely and tidily through to exceptional planning and scheduling, concentration, precision, accuracy, and attention to detail to achieve an excellent finish, every step in the process matters. Mistakes are largely irreversible and can be very costly.