Floor Covering Installer

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Work Tasks

FLOOR COVERING INSTALLERS work in many types of buildings including homes, offices, stores, and restaurants. Floor covering installers prepare floors to be covered by cleaning or sanding them, or installing new underlay panels. They position the carpet, stretching it to fit evenly on the floor and snugly against walls and door thresholds. They stretch the carpet, hooking it to a tack-less strip to hold it in place, and finish the edges with a wall trimmer. On special floor covering installation work, such as stairs, carpet may be held in place with staples. In commercial installations, carpet may be glued directly to the floor.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $41,000 average per year ($19.75 per hour)
• A medium occupation (40,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.1% per year)

Entry Requirements

Most FLOOR COVERING INSTALLERS learn their trade informally on the job as helpers to experienced installers. Others learn through formal apprenticeship programs sponsored by unions which usually last three to four years. A high school education is preferred, though not necessary. Courses in general mathematics and shop may be helpful. A driver's license and a criminal background check are usually required for floor covering installers. Some states require a license for the removal of vinyl flooring containing asbestos.