Carpet Fitter and Floor Layer
Carpet fitters and floor layers specialize in installing carpets or other types of flooring, ensuring a professional and precise finish that enhances the look and comfort of indoor spaces.
Day-to-day tasks
- measure floor space and figure out materials needed: calculate how much material is required for the floor area
- clear furniture and remove doors: move things out of the way and take off doors
- take out old flooring: remove the existing floor material
- clean, level, and seal the work area: prepare the surface for the new flooring
- attach underlay and floor coverings: use glue or nails to secure the underlay and floor materials
- install carpet using gripper rods and tape: stretch the carpet over spiked gripper rods and tape it in place
- seal joins and edges on vinyl flooring: use heat to seal the edges of vinyl flooring
- protect floor coverings with spray or wax: apply a protective coating to floor coverings
- use fast-track flooring systems: employ quick installation methods for flooring
- put back furniture and re-hang doors after trimming: return furniture, and reattach and adjust doors after cutting them to fit
Skills and knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to work on your own
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to use your initiative
- physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
- knowledge of maths
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Industry Qualifications
The most common route on the Isle of Man would be as a trainee through a carpet fitting and floor laying company. You can do courses through a professional body such as The Flooring Industry Training Association in the UK.