Certification identifies an installer as being a dedicated and knowledgeable professional whose competence in installing tile has been verified to meet specific tile industry standards.
In the case of the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation, the Certified Tile Installer program is a rigorous program that tests expertise, how well the installer keeps up with the fast-changing world of tile - from thin tile to very large-sized tile to new installation materials and tools - and how knowledgeable he or she is about tile installation best practices.
The Advanced Tile Installer Certifications take tile installation expertise and knowledge to an even higher level.
Both certifications help separate talented and expert tile installers from those who create the type of situations described in How Not to Install Tile on Floors, Walls and in Showers.
What Does Qualified Labor Mean?
These certified tile installers - as a result of their professional certifications and affiliations - are considered Qualified Labor. Qualified labor refers to having the most qualified professional perform the scope of the work you are specifying rather than basing the decision on the lowest price.
The Tile Council of North America Handbook committee strongly recommends using installers who have demonstrated their commitment to their craft and taken the time to stay current with the latest materials and methods. Because tile is a permanent finish, the lowest bid should not be the driving factor, but rather who is the most qualified to perform the scope of the work specified.
Certified Tile Installers know where to find the best tile industry resources, have open-line access to industry experts, stay up-to-date with the latest methods, materials and best practices. and regularly refer to the following guides:
The TCNA Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation
The American National Standard Specifications for the Installation of Ceramic Tile, also called the ANSI standards
The National Tile Contractors (NTCA) Reference Manual
