Flooring installers and tile and marble setters held about 125,400 jobs in 2014. Approximately 41 percent of them were employed in the building finishing contractors industry. About 4 in 10 were self-employed.
Employment in the detailed occupations that make up the occupation of flooring installers and tile and marble setters in 2014 was distributed as follows:
Tile and marble setters
55,100
Carpet installers
45,300
Floor layers, except carpet, wood, and hard tiles
17,100
Floor sanders and finishers
7,900
Flooring and tile are usually installed after most of the construction has been completed, so the work area is typically clean and uncluttered, although some materials and tasks may be messy.
Installing flooring, tile, and marble is physically demanding, with workers spending much of their time reaching, bending, and kneeling. As a result, workers typically wear kneepads for protection. Workers also wear safety goggles when using grinders, saws, and sanders. In enclosed areas with poor access to ventilation, workers often use dust masks or respirator systems to prevent the inhalation of dust. Dust is generated from cutting tiles and from sanding adhesives and mortars.
Work Schedules
Most flooring installers and tile and marble setters work full time. In commercial settings, installers may work evenings and weekends, often for higher wages, to avoid disturbing regular business operations.
About 4 in 10 flooring installers and tile and marble setters were self-employed in 2014. Self-employed workers may have the ability to set their own schedules.