What Types of Tile Certification Does CTEF Offer?
First, Why Offer Tile Installation Certification?
Too often, consumers choose an installer or contractor based on price alone, which results in lost work for qualified installers and installation failures. Better to select based on competence and knowledge, wouldn't you agree? That's where certification comes in.
Certification represents a mechanism for consumers to know the level of proficiency of prospective tile installers and not rely on price alone for decision-making. By encouraging consumers to use only the best-qualified installers, the program helps raise the quality of tile installations throughout the U.S. and ensures that tile projects are installed correctly from the beginning, remaining beautiful for years to come.
CTEF launched the Certified Tile Installer (CTI) program in 2008 to provide a means for good, knowledgeable installers to verify their skills and promote themselves to potential clients and employers. It enables professional installers to provide industry-recognized proof of their abilities and secure more work. CTEF offers the only 3rd party assessment of installer skills and knowledge recognized by the Tile Industry.
With the introduction of larger format ceramic tile, thinner tile, new setting materials, and more combined with a demand for more complex tile design patterns, technical proficiency has become even more critical than when the program first launched.
Working with certified tile installers is a must!
Two Forms of Ceramic Tile Installation Certification
CTEF offers two tile installation certification programs:
- The Certified Tile Installer Program (CTI)
- Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT)
The Certified Tile Installer Program (CTI)
The Certified Tile Installer evaluation takes place around the country in the facilities of CTEF Sponsors. However, before participating, candidates must complete an application and online training. Remember that the CTI Program is a test of ability and is not considered a training event.
>> To learn more, visit the Certified Tile Installer Program.
Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers (ACT)
The Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers is not a training program; it evaluates the skills and knowledge of pre-qualified tile installers and currently offers certifications in seven specific areas of tile installation:
- Large Format Tile & Substrate Preparation
- Membranes
- Mortar (Mud) Floors
- Mortar (Mud) Walls
- Shower Receptors
- Grouts
- Gauged Porcelain Tile and Gauged Porcelain Tile Panels/Slabs
>> To learn more about the ACT Program, visit Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers. Note that you must be pre-qualified for these certifications.
Also explore the listing of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Certification!
Why Become a CTI...
“I was interested in [becoming certified] not only to support the CTI program, but also to take my skill to the next level, to demonstrate that I am dedicated to continuing education in our industry.
Ed Siebern, my installer of 14 years, and I are now the first and only Certified Tile installers in our area of Tucson, Arizona!
“The CTI test challenges your skills in all facets of ceramic tile installation, from the details of prep work, the layout, cutting, and installing of the tile, to the finish work.”