How to Become a Flooring Installer

Quick Facts

  • Average Salary: $46,950/year
  • Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Required Experience: Entry-level through apprenticeship
  • Licensing: Required in most states
  • Job Outlook: 6% growth (2020-2030)

What Does a Flooring Installer Do?

A Flooring Installer, or Floor Layer, is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in laying down different types of flooring surfaces. This might include carpet, vinyl, tile, laminate, and wood. As a Flooring Installer, you'll prepare the foundation—whether it's concrete or plywood—by cleaning, leveling, and applying adhesives as required.

A typical day might include reading blueprints to understand the layout, measuring and cutting materials to the correct size, and carefully placing and securing the flooring. Sometimes you might also need to repair existing flooring. An eye for detail is essential in this job, as your work will be visible in the finished product.

Your work environment can vary, but typically you will work indoors. This could be in residential homes, commercial buildings, or construction sites. Safety equipment, such as knee pads and safety glasses, is often required. Though the work can be physically demanding, it's also highly rewarding. Each project provides a tangible outcome that you can take pride in!

Skills Required

Technical Skills

  • Blueprint Reading
  • Measuring and cutting materials accurately
  • Knowledge of various types of flooring materials
  • Using hand and power tools safely and effectively
  • Understanding of building regulations and safety standards
  • Wood and tile work
  • Proper floor preparation
  • Flooring installation techniques
  • Sub-flooring repair

Soft Skills

  • Physical stamina and strength
  • Ability to lift heavy materials
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Ability to work as part of a team
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management skills
  • Customer service skills

Education and Training Requirements

Required Education

Licensing and Certification

State Requirements

Required in most states

Salary and Job Outlook

How to Get Started