Tiler: Joseph Muteka

Joseph Muteka is a skilled floor and wall tiler. His expertise involves laying a variety of tiles, including ceramics, mosaics and natural stone on walls, floors and staircases in a range of settings, such as residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings.

He is also adept at constructing small walls and steps using bricks or blocks.

His career began in 1999. "I love tiling because I get to show off my creative skills. Seeing my customers happy after seeing my work brings me joy. Aspiring tilers should be ready to work in all weather conditions."

According to World Skills United Kingdom, wall and floor tilers specialise in enhancing and protecting buildings using a variety of materials such as terracotta, porcelain and natural stones like marble or ceramics. Their work involves estimating the amount of tiles required for a project, preparing surfaces with plaster, sand or cement, and skillfully fixing tiles in place to create aesthetically pleasing and durable finishes.

Effective communication skills are essential as tilers interact with clients to understand their requirements and preferences. They must also collaborate effectively with other tradespeople and work independently when necessary. Attention to detail is critical in ensuring precise tile placement and alignment, while initiative allows them to tackle unexpected challenges that may arise during the job, it said.

Aspiring tilers can develop their skills through practical experience and on-the-job training. Building a strong foundation in technical proficiency and craftsmanship is key to succeeding in this field. The ability to adapt to different environments and work conditions, coupled with a passion for creating high-quality finishes, is central to a fulfilling career as a tiler.