Tile and Stone Setters

What this job is

Apply hard tile, stone, and comparable materials to walls, floors, ceilings, countertops, and roof decks.

What they do day to day

• Align and straighten tile using levels, squares, and straightedges.
• Finish and dress the joints and wipe excess grout from between tiles, using damp sponge.
• Cut and shape tile to fit around obstacles and into odd spaces and corners, using hand and power cutting tools.
• Determine and implement the best layout to achieve a desired pattern.
• Mix, apply, and spread plaster, concrete, mortar, cement, mastic, glue or other adhesives to form a bed for the tiles, using brush, trowel and screed.
• Study blueprints and examine surface to be covered to determine amount of material needed.
• Measure and mark surfaces to be tiled, following blueprints.
• Lay and set mosaic tiles to create decorative wall, mural, and floor designs.
• Apply mortar to tile back, position the tile, and press or tap with trowel handle to affix tile to base.
• Mix and apply mortar or cement to edges and ends of drain tiles to seal halves and joints.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 2 of 5 — Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma; some previous work experience or training helps.

Typical entry education (BLS): No formal educational credential.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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