Tile layers design and set tile patterns, learning through apprenticeships and classroom education. They assess spaces, propose designs, order supplies, prepare surfaces, lay tiles, add grout, and use specialty products. They can work with various materials and repair existing designs. Union membership offers benefits and protection.
A tile layer or tile set is a construction professional who designs and sets tile patterns ranging from floor tiles to tiles that can line the shower. Tile layers learn their craft classically through apprenticeship, working under an experienced tile layer who provides training and practical advice, and they also have some classroom education to learn about the basics of tile laying. As in other fields of the building trade, the amount of training required for a layer of tiles may be required by law to ensure that people can work safely and effectively in this trade.
The work of a mosaic layer begins with the assessment of the place where the mosaics will be installed. The tile layer discusses the options with the customer, talking about the types of tiles that can be used and the available color and finish options. When evaluating the scene, the tile layer thinks of needs such as impact resistance, waterproofing or the desire for non-slip surfaces to come up with recommendations. He or she can also propose various available patterns and designs, sketching out options and measuring the space to determine how many tiles will be needed.
If a patterned design or mosaic is being created, the mosaic layer will use the measurements to come up with a design that will be shown to the customer to ensure it looks as expected. With information about the measurements, the tile layer can also order tiles and other supplies such as grout and cement. Once all the supplies are in place, the tile layer can begin by preparing the surface where the tiles will be installed, ensuring they are smooth and solid before applying the cement.
A few layers of tiles lay tiles on sheets that are pressed gently against the cement. Others lay tiles individually, with the help of spacers to keep the tiles evenly aligned. After the tiles are set into the cement, the layer adds grout between the tiles to seal the cracks, and he may also apply a sealer to ensure the grout remains waterproof. Grouts can be dyed to blend in with the tile color or stand out, depending on taste, and tile layers can also use specialty grouts, such as mildew-resistant products in bathrooms.
Tile layers can work with glass, ceramics, cement, stone and plastic. In addition to creating new designs such as tiled floors, pools, counters, etc., they can also repair and modernize existing designs. Their work includes matching and replacing damaged, broken or missing parts, as well as sealing existing part installations and making changes to part installations upon the owner’s request.
For professional advancement and access to certain types of workplaces, mosaic layers often join together in a union. Union membership confers certain benefits, including access to health insurance and other services that may be available to union members, as well as protecting tile layers from exploitation and abuse.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
