How to become a commercial floorlayer
There are several routes to becoming a commercial floorlayer.
Most start out by beginning an apprenticeship which includes both on and off-the-job training. Some find employment with a flooring contractor and learn on-the-job alongside short courses and may eventually complete a qualification once competency can be shown.
You should explore these routes to become a commercial floorlayer to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
College/training provider
A range of training providers offer training which will help you start your career as a commercial floorlayer. Information on types of training providers offering training can be found on the Contract Flooring Association website.
You could also study short courses delivered by the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA), a not-for-profit training organisation supported and co-founded by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and the National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF).
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a commercial flooring contractor is a great way into the flooring industry.
The Floorlayer Apprenticeship Standard in available in England, this is a 30–36 month apprenticeship. The Floorcovering Occupations (Construction) Modern Apprenticeship in Scotland is a 4-year apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by a company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
Work
If you have some basic experience, you could apply directly to a commercial flooring contractor to gain on-site experience as a commercial floorlayer. You might start out as a labourer to a more experienced floorlayer and progress as your abilities improve. You may also attend short duration training courses to learn valuable knowledge and skills needed from training providers and manufacturers.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a commercial floorlayer. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a commercial floorlayer include:
- Knowledge of building and construction
- Ability to work well on your own or with others
- Be thorough and pay attention to detail
- Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- Ability to work well with your hands
- Good understanding of maths and measurements.
