A carpet installer works with clients who’re purchasing a new carpet to aid them in the installation process, or more commonly perform the entire procedure themselves. A carpet installer must first analyze the target surface, determining if there any problems that could interfere with the carpet’s installation, and correcting them where applicable. Afterwards, a carpet installer takes the measurements of the room(s) and cuts the carpet into appropriately-shaped and sized pieces. After application, the carpet installer may perform some finishing touches, such as laying down metal trims along the edges of the carpet to prevent tearing.
There is no higher form of education for becoming a carpet installer, and a high school diploma is the only basic requirement for the position. Good skills with mathematics and especially geometry are highly beneficial, as the job involves lots of precise cuts and measurements. Additionally, extra credits in classes such as arts and workshops can benefit a candidate as well. There are some apprenticeships available, and while they can aid a candidate in getting the job, they’re not strictly required by most employers.
The median salary for carpet installers was $36,000 in 2009, and the annual pay rate ranges between $28,000 and $52,000. Carpet installers benefit greatly from their prior working experience. One of the most prominent downsides of working as a carpet installer is the common lack of extra benefits, such as healthcare and dental plans – though some employers provide those in some rare cases.