Putting the Final Touches on a building as a Finisher

Finishers have one of the most important jobs in construction, but it is also one of the simplest. We see our walls and tiles everyday but don't think much of it, such as how they were built, how long it took, and what type of skills are needed to do a good job. Drywall, tapers, and tile installers put the final touches on a building once the main structure is finally completed, though some finishers may also help with the actual construction of the building. Blue collar work such as finishers is one of the occupations that are essential in the fabric of our society. Many enter this profession because of the consistency of the work with good hours and pay.

Installers must securely fasten drywall to the interior of the framework of the structure. They must cut the dry wall paneling to be able to fit around air conditioners, electrical outlets, and other fixtures. Finishers prepare dry wall panels for painting and by taping the joints. Tapers glue or spackle to fill the joints and create a completely flat surface.

Since many of us would rather not walk on dirt or concrete there are also ceiling and tile installers. Tiles can add a decorative touch and provide a room with sounder proofing. Depending on the decor one chooses to have in their home, there are an endless amount of tiles to select from such as light traffic, heavy traffic, mosaic, cement, porcelain, terra cotta, glazed, and unglazed. Tiles vary shapes in sizes so personal preference is a key factor when choosing tile. Other types of finishers are carpet and floor installers. The finishers must inspect the sub floor and see if it is suitable for carpet, wood, or marble flooring.



Education can vary depending on how quickly someone learns to become a finisher. Many learn on the job or choose to receive some additional formal training. Since construction relies heavily on chain of command, finishers typically start out as helpers by cleaning and assisting more experienced workers. Any type of construction work can be physically demanding, with constant standing for long periods of time, so those who are considering finishing as a career must be able to work on their feet. Being able to cut the dry wall precisely using basic math is definitely a plus, and those who are great listeners and follow instructions will be highly sought after.

Listening is major part of the construction business because time is money and projects that take too long to finish may cost the businesses additional funds to complete. Being able to operate within a given time frame is crucial to the success of the finisher. In construction, problems will occur on a fairly regular basis but those who are skilled and highly trained in finishing will be able to find solutions quickly and get the job done.

Finishers are expected to increase over the next decade. However, with the declining housing market over the last few years many new houses have foreclosed and the need for remodeling has declined. Natural disasters also play a major role in the need for finishers because when old houses are severely damaged by hurricanes or tornados, construction projects will increase. Seasonal climates also are a factor when it comes to finisher employment. Larger cities experience growth at different times while others decrease, it can't be said which areas are the best for finishers. Many home owners are also choosing wooden floors rather carpets because of their durability and life expectancy.

Carpet and wood installation can be done by do-it-yourself projects but because of the lack of experience by most, problems may occur. Many choose professional finishers because of the quality of work they are able to do. While installation may be more expensive in the long run it would be worth it to them to have it higher quality.

Overall, finishers who have established themselves over a period of time can earn a good living with salaries ranging from $13.00-$23.00 per hour. Those who show the necessary skill set and have been finishers for an extended amount of time may become supervisors and train others.

The are various organizations and unions which help finishers and contracted workers receive benefits and additional education such as Finishing Trade Institutes, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, National Association of Home Builders, Association Builders and Contractors, Floor Covering Installation Contractors Association, and National Tile Contractors Association.

Many finishers who build enough experience and have their skills refined may enter business for themselves as independent subcontractors. Also, because many Spanish speaking workers enter this type of work, being able to speak Spanish would be beneficial as well.

Blue collar work is a respectable way to earn a living. While it is not glamorous and won't get people on the cover of popular magazines, it does provide a valuable service that homes and buildings of all types need.