What does a floor installer do?
Floor installers work with many different materials including laminate, wood, linoleum, cork, vinyl, and rubber to create the desired flooring for a structure. They install the required flooring for noise reduction, shock absorption, or for airtight environments.
They inspect the surface prior to installing the flooring and they perform any necessary repairs or corrections to make sure the surface is clean and smooth. They then measure and cut the materials and perform the required installation techniques. For some projects, floor installers install a padded under-layer. They make sure the flooring fits tightly and correctly and they make necessary adjustments. Floor installers use a variety of materials to attach flooring materials such as adhesives, staples, nails, or polyethylene film. They also use many different tools such as sanders, trowels, shears, knives, and rollers.
What kind of training does a floor installer need?
Floor installers need at least a high school diploma, but many complete formal training programs. Prospective floor installers typically complete courses in mechanical drawing, algebra, geometry, and floor covering installation. Some floor installers complete formal apprenticeship programs that combine classroom instruction and paid on the job training. Apprentices learn how to use a variety of tools and floor covering materials. Many employers provide on the job training where new floor installers start out as helpers and gain the necessary skills and experience by working with a skilled installer. New floor installers become familiar with the required tools and procedures of the job. Floor installers often complete additional training as needed throughout their careers.
What are the prospects for a career as a floor installer?
Employment of floor installers is expected to experience little or no change, decreasing 1% from 2008 to 2018 (1).
Job prospects are expected to be fair. Floor installers with advanced training and extensive experience will have the best job opportunities. Some job openings will stem from the need to replace floor installers that retire, transfer or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do floor installers make?
As of January 2010, the average annual salary for floor installers is $27,000; average annual floor installer salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a floor installer is a great choice for people with a strong interest in installing a variety of different flooring materials. Floor installers must have a solid understanding of floor covering installation and be familiar with a variety of materials. Manual dexterity, physical stamina, good hand-eye coordination, and good color perception are necessary characteristics. Floor installers must be able to quickly and accurately solve basic math problems. They must also have good communication and interpersonal skills because they work with a variety of other workers and customers.
