Tile (Layer) Setter apprenticeship

Description of an apprenticeship as a Tile (Layer) Setter

Table of Contents

Tile (Layer) Setter apprenticeship

DOT code: 861.664-018, AIMS code: 0971

Visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook for a detailed description of this trade. Type the trade name in the search box and hit enter.

Description

Supplies and mixes construction materials for TILE SETTER, applies grout, and cleans installed tile: Moves tiles, tile setting tools, and work devices from storage area to installation site manually or using wheelbarrow. Mixes mortar and grout according to standard formulas and request from TILE SETTER, using bucket, water hose, spatula, and portable mixer. Supplies TILE SETTER with mortar, using wheelbarrow and shovel. Applies grout between joints of installed tile, using grouting trowel. Removes excess grout from tile joints with wet sponge and scrapes corners and crevices with trowel. Wipes surface of tile after grout has set to remove grout residue and polish tile, using nonabrasive materials. Cleans installation site, mixing and storage areas, and installation machines, tools, and equipment, using water and various cleaning tools. Stores tile setting materials, machines, tools, and equipment. May apply caulk, sealers, acid, steam, or related agents to caulk, seal, or clean installed tile, using various application devices and equipment. May modify mixing, grouting, grinding, and cleaning procedures according to type of installation or material used. May assist TILE SETTER to position and secure metal lath, wire mesh, or felt paper prior to installation of tile. May cut marked tiles to size, using power saw or tile cutter.

Work process schedule

Task Hours
A. Demonstrate safe work habits 100
B. Use of tile finishers tools and equipment. 300
C. Preparation of all types of surfaces; including metal lath materials and reinforcing meshes. 400
D. Distribution and handling of all types of materials; new techniques and new materials. 600
E. Mixing of various types of mortars, portland cement, modified cements, synthetic and/or chemical materials. 600
F. Grouting techniques; portland cement grout, colored grouts, epoxy, foran, synthetic and/or silicone type grouts and sealants. 1000
G. Cleaning of tile during and after installation; acid cleaning; steam cleaning; power machine cleaning. 500
H. Safe handling and use of all power related equipment and/or tools and maintenance thereof. 500
(Every 2,000 hours = one year) total hours: 4000

Related technical instruction

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires 150 hours each year of related technical instruction which must be mastered by the apprentice in order to successfully complete the program. For further information, please call the Division of Apprentice Standards at (617) 626-5409.

Additional Resources

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