Tile and Stone Setters

Key Responsibilities

• Cut tile backing to required size, using shears.
• Apply a sealer to make grout stain- and water-resistant.
• Prepare surfaces for tiling by attaching lath or waterproof paper, or by applying a cement mortar coat to a metal screen.
• Remove any old tile, grout and adhesive using chisels and scrapers and clean the surface carefully.
• Prepare cost and labor estimates, based on calculations of time and materials needed for project.
• Apply mortar to tile back, position the tile, and press or tap with trowel handle to affix tile to base.
• 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.
• Cut and shape tile to fit around obstacles and into odd spaces and corners, using hand and power cutting tools.
• Lay and set mosaic tiles to create decorative wall, mural, and floor designs.
• Install and anchor fixtures in designated positions, using hand tools.
• Level concrete and allow to dry.
• Mix and apply mortar or cement to edges and ends of drain tiles to seal halves and joints.
• Select and order tile and other items to be installed, such as bathroom accessories, walls, panels, and cabinets, according to specifications.
• Study blueprints and examine surface to be covered to determine amount of material needed.
• Finish and dress the joints and wipe excess grout from between tiles, using damp sponge.
• Brush glue onto manila paper on which design has been drawn and position tiles, finished side down, onto paper.
• Align and straighten tile using levels, squares, and straightedges.
• Measure and cut metal lath to size for walls and ceilings, using tin snips.
• Measure and mark surfaces to be tiled, following blueprints.
• Assist customers in selection of tile and grout.
• Cut, surface, polish, and install marble and granite or install pre-cast terrazzo, granite or marble units.
• Determine and implement the best layout to achieve a desired pattern.
• Build underbeds and install anchor bolts, wires, and brackets.
• Spread mastic or other adhesive base on roof deck to form base for promenade tile, using serrated spreader.
• Remove and replace cracked or damaged tile.