How to Become a Carpet Fitter
The job of a carpet fitter is critical in the construction and remodeling industry. While the concept behind laying carpet may not seem complicated, it takes a special amount of skill and experience to be able to do it effectively. To learn how to install carpet, you will need to go through a great deal of on-the-job training. You can also become certified by various organizations to help verify your ability.
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Instructions
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Work as a helper or apprentice with an existing carpet crew. Before you can ever become a professional installer, you will need to get some experience working with an installer. To find a crew to work with, you can respond to "Help Wanted" ads, or you can stop by a carpet store and talk to some of the installers who work there. When you start out working as a helper, you will simply assist with the manual labor involved. You will need to be able to carry large amounts of weight and help clean up the job site.
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Obtain the necessary tools to work as a carpet installer. Carpet installers use a number of tools, such as seam irons, carpet knives and power stretchers. You may want to start purchasing your own tools while you are working as a helper. This way, when you are ready to branch out and work on your own, you will already have the tools necessary for the job.
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Obtain a certification from one of the various certification organizations in the industry. To become certified, you will usually have to take a short seminar or class, followed by an exam. Many carpet franchises offer certification classes for their installers. You may also obtain certification from the Certified Flooring Installers organization, also called CFI. CFI offers classes various levels of certification. For example, if you have two years of experience, you can take the residential and commercial training and certification class. With four years of experience, you can get an advanced certification. If you pass the class, you will gain a certification in this area. You must also pay a one-time fee of around $300 to receive this certification.
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Apply for a job with a carpet store. Periodically, carpet stores will advertise available installer jobs in the newspaper or online. You will need to apply for the job and interview with the installation manager. Typically, the store will give you a trial. You will have to perform several installations, and the company will check up on your work to see its quality. After this probationary period, you will be given full installation privileges.
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