Tile and Stone Setters: The Experts in Flooring Installation
The occupation of tile and stone setters involves installing ceramic, porcelain, marble, granite, and other types of tiles and stones on floors, walls, and other surfaces in residential and commercial settings. This job involves worksites like hospitals, offices, schools, and resorts, among others. At many construction sites, tile and stone setters are among the first tradesmen to go to work, laying the foundation for all subsequent work in the construction of the building.
To become a tile and stone setter, you need to have a strong attention to detail and the ability to execute intricate designs. You also need to be physically active; lifting and carrying heavy loads, bending, and kneeling for prolonged periods are commonly needed in this job. While tile and stone setters often work regular, full-time schedules, there is a demand for those who are available on weekends and beyond regular work hours.
Tile and Stone Setting in Practice
Tile and stone setters in flooring are essential when it comes to completing several types of projects, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. They also work in more oversized projects, such as laying tiles and stones in commercial manufacturing facilities and malls. Tile and stone setting also involves the installation of complex patterns and designs, such as medallions and mosaics.
As a tile and stone setter, your job description may include mixing mortar or cement, cutting tiles, and stones using a wet saw or other power tools, planning and measuring surfaces, marking layouts, and positioning tiles and stones. Tiling and installing stones are incredibly precise jobs; therefore, the job requires true craftsmanship, attention to detail, and meticulousness.
To become a tile and stone setter, you do not require any formal post-secondary education. However, the job requires a high school diploma or equivalent certificate; most employees seek certification from an apprenticeship or vocational school. Some tile and stone setters opt to join trade schools that offer classroom and apprenticeship-like training. Training includes learning the various types of tile and the materials they use and understanding how to read a blueprint.
As you progress through the ranks of the profession, you can become a supervisor or manager, depending on the company or organization.
Getting into the Field
If you are new to the field and looking to start, you can increase your chances of getting hired by developing a portfolio of work you have done, seeking apprenticeships and vocational programs, and networking with other professionals. This could be through online programs or courses offered by professionals in the field. Your focus should be on ways to enhance your knowledge, skills, and expertise.
Looking to become a tile and stone setter presents a solid opportunity for career and job growth. Whether you are starting or transitioning to the field, this job offers the satisfaction of seeing your hard work and craftsmanship come to life.
Tile and Stone Setters Salary Data
Tile and stone setters are responsible for installing materials such as marble, ceramic tiles, and granite in buildings and homes. The following are the salary data for this occupation:
| US National Average | All Workers | Non-Union | Full-Time | Time-Based Pay | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Job Level | Salary | Salary | Salary | Salary | Salary |
| Level 04 | $43,721.60 | $43,908.80 | $48,152.00 | $43,971.20 | $48,380.80 |
| Not able to be leveled | $56,056.00 | $56,284.80 | |||
As seen from the data above, the US national average salary for tile and stone setters is $43,721.60. However, the salary can be higher for those who are able to progress in their job levels. Those who are in unions also tend to have higher salaries compared to non-union workers. Full-time workers and those who are paid based on time also earn more than their counterparts.
Two areas where tile and stone setters are paid differently than the national average include Oregon, where the average salary for full-time workers is $50,315.20, and those who are paid based on time earn an average of $50,024.00.
Overall, being part of a union can have a positive effect on the salary and benefits of tile and stone setters. This is because unions advocate for better working conditions, fair wages, and benefits for its members.
