Tiling News

Not all that long ago, the answer to the question “should porcelain be sealed?” was a resounding “no”. The only important questions then related to correct installation and maintenance. These days however, it is not quite that straight forward.

Porcelain was first pioneered in Italy by a small select group of companies all working to a defined set of high standards. Porcelain is made from a more pure blend of high quality clay than used in “normal” ceramic production, utilizing a higher percentage of Kaolin clays. These have high silica content and result in materials that have all of the characteristics of silica itself once fired, namely low water absorption, high chemical resistance, high abrasion resistance, and good overall hardness.

The pioneers of this technology recognized this high performance and marketed it accordingly with porcelain becoming the benchmark. One of the most accessible technical features used by the marketers to highlight this high performance aspect was water absorption. The European standards (Tolerances ISO UNE EN ISO 10.545-3) set water absorption at less than 0.5%. In many cases the European manufacturers bettered this impressive standard with common water absorption being less than 0.1%.

So, with such low water absorption and with the clay being milled and spray dried to such a small particle size before pressing and then firing to over 1200 degrees Celsius, the resulting porcelain did not need sealing.

Since then however, with then advent of different market requirements and the proliferation of porcelain manufacturers worldwide, “porcelain” can no longer be assumed to meet the same original technical and performance criteria of the early pioneers. There are now many types of porcelain, especially polished, manufactured in different countries, to different standards. The fact is that many of these porcelains have a rate of water absorption higher than the original standard and so they do absorb liquids and some have a tendency to stain when grouted with coloured, polymer-modified grouts. Consequently they can benefit from sealing. To find out whether a porcelain will benefit from sealing do a simple water test. If, after several minutes, water is absorbed, then the tile can stain and will benefit from sealing with a good quality, penetrating type sealer.

Another very common problem at the moment is that some porcelain tiles become very dirty once in use. However this does not necessarily mean the tile needs sealing, indeed this may still occur with some tiles even if adequately sealed. The main reason for sealing porcelain is to stop it absorbing things that would eventually stain. However as these sealers are penetrating they do not offer any protection to the actual surface and it is surface soiling that is the typical culprit in most cases. Today, porcelain is produced with many different surface textures, often in an attempt to mimic the surface textures of natural stone; many of them (created by the use of plastic dies to press the tile body before firing) result in a surface that has a many small “pockets” that can have a tendency to “grab” dirt. It is these surface textures that are more often than not the reason for the problem of surface soling.

A common complaint is that when porcelain is used in a car showroom or garage, car tyre marks are very easily transferred on to the tile but not easily removed. The client then assumes that a sealer will remedy the problem. However in most cases it is the very fine surface texture, characteristic of most porcelain that is abrading the tyre and lodging the rubber particles in the very small fine pores of the tile. It is very often further complicated by the presence of small amounts of grout haze left on the tile surface after installation. The solution to this problem is to clean and maintain the porcelain correctly rather than apply a sealer. This type of porcelain cannot be maintained by wet mopping alone. The characteristic microscopic textured surface requires periodic cleaning with a heavy duty alkaline cleaner and an abrasive nylon-scrubbing pad or a deck brush.

So the answer to the question “should porcelain be sealed?” is no longer a blanket “no” perhaps a better answer would be “It depends on the porcelain”.
Tiling Forums

I have read your postings over the weekend, and can see exactly where you are coming from. I am a 100% full blown skeptic, and I am not easily fooled by scammers or folks out to make a fast buck.
It is not professionalism that I would have called into question regarding anyone that has trained on a short term training course, but experience.
I have been tiling on and off for nigh on 20 years, sometimes as a diyer at other times as a handyman for other companies. I attended a pitt training course only a couple of weeks ago, and can only say that I am shocked at the lack of knowledge and skills that I had. The time spent at the training facility is mainly on setting out procedures and tile fixing using the correct methods and tools as set by british standards., this training is the foundation that everything else can be built on through time. To put this in a lifelike scenario you go to a job, you set out and then you fix. If a problem arises you deal with it as you would have done in the past ie use your experience. Put me or another new trainee in that position, and we will contact the technical helpline, and use their experience to enable us to deal with the problem. This does not show lack of professionalism, just lack of experience.
To finish off, is it not better to support someone who, through hard work and expense to themselves wants to succeed in this industry, rather than slagging the off and putting them down at the first chance you get.
Thanks to the staff at pitt, I feel that I am in a far better position now to offer a quality service to customers that I’m sure they will be delighted with.
gizmo Oct 23 2006, 01:14 PM
—————————————————————————————–
Some very interesting points of view regarding this topic.

I have been tiling ‘on and off’ for the past 20 odd years. My first pro job was in 1988 (restaurant kitchen) and took a week to complete. The skills I had and built up to that point I took from job to job and there came a point that I didn’t learn anything new; I just repeated the experience I had built up (which looking back was rather limited!!). For a few years I also got into painting & decorating (try teling them that their trade isn’t real!) and worked for a local contractor who gave me all the tiling work he got. After suffering a bike crash I got easier work but after a while (long one!!) I got bored and wanted to get back into either tiling or painting but for myself. I knew that to make it work I needed far more knowledge than what I possessed at the time and after seeing an ad to ‘become a professional tiler’ in the national press I looked into it. After a bit of research I came across PITT, albeit accidentally, and took the plunge. 12 months on I can honestly say that I would not have the business that I have now if I hadn’t invested in myself and what I learned at PITT really did make a huge difference (and yes, you can learn a hell of a lot in a short time scale especially if you are willing to learn and the info put across is correct and properly presented!!).

However, after talking to others that have done ‘courses’ on various trades there appears to be a bit of a lottery as to whether you get an excellant, mediocre or just plain crap training centre. This very same lottery also applies to customers who are after a trades person in any trade (we’ve all seem builders, plumbers, tilers et al with 20 years ‘experience’ still making bodges and balls ups AND getting away with it!!!!

If those in the industry, especially with experience on many fronts, or time served feel there is validity to at least exploring the reasons for an association then a certain amount of trust should be given to allow then to do this. Findings can always be discussed and questions can always be asked - open mindedness allows the creation of many things and also the solving of many problems. It is only by looking at all aspects of an argument that progress can be made, afterall freedom of speech is what our forefathers fought and died for!!!!

Sometimes we need to see a bigger picture and this can be done through the exchanging of ideas. I would very much like to see where this association can go and how it can represent all those within the tile industry and also all those it serves.

‘What the fool doesn’t understand he mocks, thinking he’s showing superiority; where in fact he’s just displaying latent idiocy.’

It is good to be skeptical but not to the point that it limits you - if you have a point of view (good, bad or indifferent!!!) that you think can make a difference to our industry then please bring it to the table.
Toots Oct 23 2006, 02:26 PM

——————————————————————————————————–
just like to say a big thank you to all at pitt for a superb 10 days training. i thought i was an ok tiler until i started the course. now i know better. the training is second to none, the facilities are excellent and the buffets are ok. just kidding norma, the lunches are outstanding, and the mrs has put me on a strict diet since i came home.
i am hoping to get my business up and running at the start of 2007 and without the help from pitt there is no way i would have had the bottle to even consider going self employed.

anyone reading this and still unsure about taking the plunge and doing the course. DO IT!! its the best

Jase, i hope you can help, i took the mrs to b&q to get one of pats datum lines but the wee guy in the shop said they had just run out. thats me knackered now.

once again thank you all very much

stuart york

Oct 14 2006, 10:29 PM
—————————————————————————————————-
Hi to the guys at PITT- Firstly I’d just like to say a massive thankyou to everyone down at the centre- In particular to Jase, Steve and Paul.
What started out as a daunting prospect when contemplating a career change soon turned out to be one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.
To anyone thinking of whether to book onto a course, all I can say is a resounding \”Yes!\”. The structure of the course was so professionally ran from start to finish- in fact, when I had to go back to work the following week I honestly thought what a great bunch of people I’d just met- if only I could get paid to do be on the course what a perfect life it would be! Ah well, what I took away from those first two weeks is alreadly paying dividends…A plumber came round to sort out a leaking soil pipe (How I wish I’d done my plumbing course already ) and saw my newly laid floor- after chatting for a while, he said he used to do a bit of tiling (don’t most plumbers say that? ) and he was really impressed with how I’d worked out my cut sizes! I explained I’d recently trained and he said (no word of a lie) that he thought it looked a bit too good to be a DIY job, and that I looked like I knew what I was doing- What a sucker! On a serious note though, I can’t tell you how proud I felt and that that comment alone has given me so much confidence. I’ve also befriended a Spark to pass off my underfloor heating installations too! Just think, if you’re even just considering a 1 week or a 2 weeker- all this after just the 2 week course

I booked the 4 week course, but unfortunately due to working commitments (I am a Jeweller as my username suggests and am selling the business as we speak) I was unable to do it all in one go. I can’t tell you how dissapointed I felt, as it was such a great bunch of people on the course with me
Also, I dipped out on the \”special project\” in the fourth week but I’m glad James, Colin, Daz, Andy & Co did PITT proud- the pics, as I said on the link put up by Paul, looked amazing.
It is testament to all at PITT that I have, however been able to split up the course to suit my needs- the flexibility is so helpful if like me, you’re already in a form of employment and taking 4 weeks off on the bounce is too much there are plenty of options available. In fact I’m back mid October for the 3rd week (plumbing) and back end of November for the Finalé

I do have a question as well though- I am part way through doing approx 5m of splashback tiling in said kitchen. Well Mrs Jeweller had gone down to Waxmans (where I have a nice trade account already- It’s amazing what Jases’s acting lessons will do for you ) and they had an end of line \”Rosa Marble\”- normally about £78 per sq m- they let us have for £45 cash, the lot! Unfortunately the natural stone bit is covered in more detail in the 4th week I believe, and when I last came down to PITT I forgot to get some sealer So Mrs J decided to get some impregnating sealer by HG and another that goes on top of this…
I fixed the tiles on using Dunlop Waterproof (AA) and was going to grout the 3mm gaps with the same as I did the floor tiles with- a limestone colour dunlop flex wall and floor number I think- would this be okay? Also like Jase said, do I;
Fix.
Seal.
Grout.
Seal again?

Oh, and the aquamix grout sealer worked a treat on the floor too as young Eddy (our Jack Russell pup) pissed all over one corner last night!

Again, thankyou all for everything- I can’t wait for the plumbing in a couple of weeks!

Neil

P.s. Special thanks of course, to Norma for looking after us all so well- she is an absolute angel.

The_Jeweller
Oct 3 2006, 11:21 AM
——————————————————————————————–
Hi Ryan,
I did the 10 day floor/wall tiling course at PITT a couple of months ago and like yourself had no prior experience of tiling.The training/instructors are top draw and in my opinion the best you will find.Add to that the after training support and you are well on your way to a more rewarding career.Look no further, call
them and i promise you wont regret it.
Paul

Sep 7 2006, 04:12 PM
charbium
————————————————————————————————
JUST FINISHED A TWO WEEK TILING COURSE AT PITT AND ITS BEEN THE MOST ENJOYABLE AND CREATIVE EXPERIENCE I,VE HAD. I,D LIKE TO THANK EVERY ONE AT PITT, ESPECIALLY JACE,KEV,STEVE AND PAUL . STILL WORKING IN MY JOB BUT HOPING TO GO FULL TIME TILING IN OCTOBER, GOT A COUPLE OF QUOTES FOR FRIENDS NEXT WEEK SO HOPING IT WILL START FROM THERE. I,D LIKE TO THANK ALL THE LADS WHO WAS ON THE COUSE WITH ME, I MET SOME GREAT MATES (ESPECIALY THE FUNNY GYPSY FROM IRELAND) ONLY JOKING TERRY. MANY THANKS AGAIN AND I,LL SEE YOU ALL SOON AT PITT WHEN I COME AND GET MY ADHESIVE AND GROUT . CHEERS LEE
Aug 24 2006, 09:21 PM
——————————————————————————————-
Big thanks to all the guys in pitt and course participants for making it a verry interesting and worthwhile two weeks. Great training center, great trainers, great 10 day course and a great bunch of blokes on the course. Well worth the trip over from Ireland. First price up for 20m2 of porcelain L shaped kitchen floor this weekend.
You will se me appearing on the forum as AQUA from now on.
Aug 24 2006, 04:10 PM
terry
——————————————————————————————-
As many people read these forums with a view to doing a training course, I wanted to let them know what they can expect in the way of help from the after course technical helpline

I have recently completed a 10 PITT course (going back for the 5 day plumbing next week), and have just started my first tiling job. Whilst it was fairly straight forward (100mm sq tiles, wavy edge , over a couple of worktops), I was still a little unsure about a few ’simple’points i.e what to do with the walls after removing tiles, whether to use trim etc.
I rung PITT for a bit of ‘hand holding’ & was straight away put through by Angie to Kev. He was very helpful and answered my questions without making me feel stupid in anyway for asking what may seem basic questions. I have spoken to him three times over the last couple of days, and have been very grateful for the advice & have been very impressed with Kev’s professional approach. I have also spoken to Steve about a plumbing problem recently, and he too was very helpful & understanding. Thanks Steve managed to soleve the overflow problem after speaking to you .

So I would like to reassure any one thinking of doing a PITT course, and wondering if they will get any back-up when they leave, that they can feel confident that the professionalism & help doesn’t end when you leave the course. They really are there to help you succeed.
Aug 24 2006, 12:08 AM
keano1
—————————————————————————————————–
i’ve just completed the 10 day wall & floor course.Thanks to all the lads at Pitt for a fantastic 2 weeks the training on the course was second to none.18 months ago i did a four day tiling course at a different tiling school & i’ve been tiling on my days off work since then.A couple of months ago i decided i would pack work in & go tiling full time.i thought a little extra training could speed me up & i wanted to learn how to tank showers & wetrooms,i’d been asked numerous times if i could do this. My wife actually found the tile forum & the info on Pitt training & when she showed it me i was so impressed that i booked to do the wall & floor course.Having just completed the course i now realise i new jack shit about tiling,Pitt has given me the knowledge & the confidence i needed to pack work in & become a quality tiler streets ahead of all the cowboys out there.Pauls determination to provide the best training school in Europe shine’s through & everyones dedication at Pitt will make sure he gets there.i’ve now packed my job in (scary) & i’m just in the process of promoting my services so any advice would be welcome,i have a couple of jobs coming up in the next month but thats all up to now.Once again thankyou to everybody at Pitt hope to see you soon & all the best to the great set of lads who were on the course with me.TONY(APS)
Aug 21 2006, 10:27 PM
APS Tiling
——————————————————————————————-
Big, big thanks to all at PITT, especially Jase, Steve, Kev & Paul, for a fantastic 10 days on the wall and floor course, top tutors, top blokes.
I’m certainly not the first and definitely wont be the last to sing PITT’s praises, but they’re well deserved. Anyone who’s come on this forum thinking about making the step towards a career in tiling shouldn’t wait any longer or look any further, book the course!
Best investment i’ve made.
Have to also mention the great bunch of lads i shared the course with for the last couple of weeks with, Tony, Glynn, Lee, Terry, Darren, Mark & Charles. I couldn’t have wished to have met a nicer bunch of blokes and have hopefully made some lasting friendships to boot.

11/10
Aug 18 2006, 10:36 PM
easylay
——————————————————————————————-
sorry i have taken a bit of time to get on here but i can only type one fingered. I see i have missed a bit of banter between my good mate dot & dab and the balding hull boy. So now on to say how good the 2 week tiling course was. I would recommend it to anybody as I had only done the odd bit of dot and dabbing. I have come away from there with a whole new skill and trade with a bit of practice. So big thanks to jase &kev as they always had time to show and teach to the highest standard. Hope I didn’t get on your nerves to much by taking the p… . Also thanks to every body in your team who looked after us.
PITT is defiantly the place to go to get trained.

ps A big thanks to all the boys for some top nighs on the beer .Our chats in the pool room will be remembered for a long time.
Aug 17 2006, 04:07 PM
ianw
——————————————————————————————-
I have recently completed a two week wall and floor tiling course at pitt.
I would like to say a great big thanks to all of the team at pitt, for not only providing me with a vast quanity of tiling knowledge but making the course so enjoyable.
I can highly recommend the training centre to anyone who is wanting to learn how to tile the correct way.
The way in which the course is structured is brill, with every tiling aspect imaginable covered, it was a massive confidence boost, cheers kev and jase.
Aug 16 2006, 10:09 AM
mark1
——————————————————————————————-
Hi Everyone,Just finished pitt 10 day floor and wall tiling course.Just like to say special thanks to Paul for his worldly advice, Angela for sorting out my accommodation and generally being on the ball, and sharon for the Tasty food that kept us all going! The Course gives you enough information and knowledge to get you out there and get tiling.
Very professional staff and set up, friendly atmosphere and good working enviroment.
Big shout out to the instructors Jase and Kev, who apart from being top blokes made learning quick, easy and fun, these guys really know their stuff well done and thanks again guys.
So anybody thinking of going on a pitt course I would highly recommend them,by the way I checked out two other firms near me first, one being Bentleys in Dunstable and the other Abaccus in Luton, don’t even go there!!! Glad I chose PITT, All the best everyone.Well Done.
Darren.
Aug 15 2006, 03:28 PM
daz27
——————————————————————————————-
Yes,yes,yes, i know, shock horror! Can you believe it, another happy chappy, thanks to the wonderful team at PITT
I’m only 60% of the way through but the course has been fantastic, tuition and facilities are second to none and everyone is as friendly and helpful as it’s possible to be. My previous knowledge of tiling was, i suspect, the same as most delegates….er…..limited, and even though i’ve never lacked self belief, the confidence i’ve gained so far from the sheer quality and professionalism of the training has left me brimming with confidence.
This is the start of a big life change for me and i can’t wait to get started on the 25th September, my first day of trading. You’ll be seeing plenty of me in the future as i’m sure i’ll be needing the wisdom of you good folks on here. Hopefully, in time i’ll be able to return the favour to someone else in my present position.
As a brief and slightly embarrassing aside, Toots dropped in during today’s lesson and was introduced to us by Paul. Well trust me to make myself look a tw*t! A someone who has had bikes for 27 years and takes a great pride in my knowledge of them i had noticed his avatar on previous visits and blurted out \”you’re the guy with the VFR?\” Er…no.
If you happen to read this Toot, please accept my apologies for my embarrassing mistake, i’ll learn to look closer next time. What makes it worse is i own a T595!
If you happen to frequent T595.net you’ll have a good story to make me shamefaced with!
Aug 14 2006, 08:42 PM
easylay
——————————————————————————————-
For all you lads & lasses who are unsure as to whether you should do a course at PITT, I would say …..GO FOR IT

I have just completed the Wall & Tile course with some of the best lads you could ever possibly meet. We were all in the same boat on the first day i.e none of us knew each other, had done none or very little tiling, and were unsure what to expect. Well after our initial ‘fears’ that we would never take it all in, and that ’setting out’ was like brain surgery, we put our faith in our top trainers Jase & Kev. Those lads are so understanding & good at what they do. I would also like to thank Paul, Ang, Phil, Sharon, Norma, Steve & John for their contributions to a great learning fortnight.

I think I speak for all of the lads Ian, Mark H, Mark R, Big Si, Alex & myself when I say that we are all very confident that we can give ‘experienced’ tilers a run for their money as we have been trained ‘the correct way’. As was said on the course if you have been doing it wrong for 20 years, then you will always do it wrong.

I was the oldest one on the course at 48 (but the best looking !!), and am now going to have a complete career change when it would be ‘easier’ to stay in my cosy but boring, mindnumbing job with it’s petty office politics. The enthusiasm & belief that I can try something new has been in large part due to the fantastic training I received at PITT, and the security of knowing that there is always someone there to help if I need advice. I like to think I have also made some great mates who intend to stay in touch with in the future. I can’t believe that I’m also missing the Bennett Arms !!!

I was so impressed with PITT that within 2 days of getting home I also booked for the plumbing course on August 28th, so that I can do full bathroom installations.

Now that my friends is…………………………….THE FUTURE !!!!

So if you’re thinking about it ……………………JUST DO IT. Don’t die wondering

Aug 10 2006, 11:12 PM

keano1
……………………
Very nice comments indeed, I and the rest of my staff live and work so hard for the kind of words you post on the tileforums, you are so kind to give the expressions that make it worth while getting out of bed 7 days a week to teach people who really do deserve professional training and want to be the best. Please let me thank you once again and yes you have help from 8-00am till 9-00pm 7 days each and every week for as long as you need our help.

Staff members when you read this as with many posts on the forums please believe it’s your hard work that makes it all possible, so from PITT Ltd thank you.

Paul Riley

Managing Director

Aug 10 2006, 11:24 PM
——————————————————————————————–
Question from www.tileforums.com
hi all just found this forum and im basically looking for the usual first time advice answers etc etc sorry if its all being asked before , basically im intrested in tiling proffessionally for a living , im currently self employed with two jobs first one is as a billposter putting up the big posters you see on the streets the money is good but the hse is killing the money/time ratio this job is one week on one week off which is how i would plan to start tiling is this a good idea? my second job is erecting marquees on my weeks off this used to be my full time job since the age of sixteen! twelve years on i had enough off working 16 17 18 hour days being away seven days a week but good money basically im worried that doing a course might not make me experienced enough to be pro and do you need any formal qualifactions like other trades sparks etc etc ? what sort of hours do you guys work ? and ive got my own 52reg swb transit would this be ok or too small ? sorry for the questions again but as most of you will understand changing careers is daunting with bread needing to be on the table of course (thanks gordon) any advice appreciated
Aug 10 2006, 06:06 PM
belly
………………..
Answer
Hi belly
I left a job (money not bad either!!) to run my own business. It was very daunting at first so know how you feel but over the last few months business has developed and I’m now at a point where I’m setting on a young trainee. I had done tiling before for several years (cowboy status ) and didn’t think I’d learn that much (was I surprised???) but knew from day one that I could do it.

Also did the plumbing course in feb (knew nowt about plumbing though!!) but did my first full bath refurb in June and customers told shop owner (kitchens - he gave me the lead!!) that they’d recommend me to Buckingham Palace (he must be one of these anti-royalists ) so you can do it if you really want to.

If this is the path you want to tread then I believe that PITT is the ONLY place to go - the training is exceptional but more importantly (and I really am speaking from experience here!!) the ongoing help and support afterwards will keep you afloat.

BTW the van will be fine, you don’t need quals and I work long & hard but the pay’s good and so is the job satisfaction
Good luck belly

Aug 10 2006, 07:41 PM
——————————————————————————————–
First chance I have had to get on the net and give some feedback on the 10 day floor and wall tiling course I finished last week.

The course was great. I had done a bit of tiling prior to attending the course and after listening to what Jase and Kev had to say, realised I had made some woeful mistakes. Jase and Kev were not patronising in the slightest when we asked stupid questions and they fully explained the reasons behind what they were saying.

The training was well structured and accommodated all levels of experience. The food was good (especially the curry Sharon).

It also helped that I was training with a cracking set of lads who liked to have a bit of a crack, which the trainers often joined in on. The visits to the Bennett Arms every night will be remembered for a very long time.

If you are thinking of booking a course, this is the place to do it. I have seen other training centres and PITT is by far the best. Plus there is the 91 hours of technical help available after the course which I hope to put to use if I can ever pluck up the courage to leave my current job (got a house, car, mrs, child etc and on a good wage so security is the problem, not the fact I am not confident in doing a good job).

If anyone wants to pm me regarding the course to get an honest answer, then please let me know.

Just one slight bit of a negative, the Hotel was not the greatest and needs an update, but this didn’t really matter to me as I spent most of the time in the pub!
Aug 9 2006, 10:20 PM

dot n dab
——————————————————————————————–
Question from www.tileforums.com
Hi everyone,Im seriously considering enrolloing on to the 10 day tiling course as i am in desparate need of a career change and tiling is top of the list. However, I have never had a manual job of any kind,and I am worried that after spending circa 2k on the course and tools etc. that I may not have had sufficient training to be let loose on the general public or even carrying out bad work. Can anyone put mymind at rest?
Aug 7 2006, 01:52 PM
gallatic
……………………………………
Answers given on www.tileforums.com

Hi, well I’ve just finished the 10 day course and I feel very confident. I know for a fact that the skills and knowledge they give you are sufficient to do a professional job: only last week I heard of job an established tiler did for a friend of my wife’s. Before I’d done the course I would have believed everything he said because he was a ‘professional’, but I now know that he didn’t know what he was doing, and I went into detail (I think my wife was shocked at how much i knew!).
For someone to have a complete career change (like myself) it is worrying, but the bottom line is that it’s down to you to make it work as a career. The skills and support that the guys have given me (and continue to do, after you’ve finished) are in my opinion first class.
I’m glad I did it and I’m sure that many more will agree.

Good luck anyway, what ever you decide.
Aug 7 2006, 02:15 PM
Big Si
……………………………………….
Don’t think about it matey ! Do It!!! The guys at PITT are brilliant trainers. I could teach an ape to stick tiles to a wall or floor. But if you want to learn properly go on the PITT 10 day course. You will learn how to tile the correct way. The course is brilliant and I have never come across anyone who has any bad comments about PITT. Their training techniques are brilliant so just go ahead an retrain you will earn a good rate and be your own boss and a few weeks after the course you will wonder why you were worried.
Kev
Aug 7 2006, 03:43 PM
tilinglogistics
…………………………………………….
Hi gallati - Big Si and tilinglogistics are absolutely bang on the money!!

Did my course last sept and I now have a working, growing business. I had the advantage of being able to tile when I went on the course and was looking for a career change, but I did the plumbing course in Feb and was amazed at what I can now do and completed my first full bathroom installation a few weeks ago. Turned a bath round (so taps are opposite end, put a gravity fed shower in, new loo and basin (removed old plaster reboarded and tiled too!) all of this after NEVER doing any previous plumbing at all. Mind you it took a day just to swap the bath round, I was so nervous not to make a b*lls up . But I did it and the customer has already got a referral for me.

The speed and money will come. Just finished a large floor job in 600 x 400 travertine covering 2 rooms, 2 passageways a store room and a loo with out of line (newly built!! ) walls so lots of raked cuts and negotiate a spiral staircase. This was by far my most demanding job but just done it and it looks great (learned so much while doing it as well). BTW this job was declined by TWO other tilers who didn’t want the grief. I did put a premium price in but I also got the two en-suites that require tanking and tiling (walls and floors) also at a premium price.

I do have a waiting list of customers who are prepared to wait for me and I had the same concerns as you before my course.
Good luck let us know how you get on.
Aug 7 2006, 09:50 PM
…………………………………………….
Thanks for the comments chaps, It all seems very positive,Seems like I should just go for it!
Aug 7 2006, 06:10 PM
gallatic
——————————————————————————————-
Finished the grand tour at PITT ( wall, floors and plumbing).
Just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone there, particually Jase, Kev, Steve and John for an intense but totally enjoyable 3 weeks. I’ve just picked up my first jobs and I’m brimming with enthusiasm and confidence. If you’re reading this and thinking about attending then think no more.
Thanks again to all at PITT

Chris Taber
Aug 6 2006, 09:42 PM

crtiling
——————————————————————————————-
Question on tile forums from Dave Allen Aug 6 2006, 09:24 AM

hi I live in the south and reading everything on here pitt seems the place to go? have looked at 2 centres but they are cowboy run can anyone help me make my mind up as i finish work in 2 weeks and want a new career.

any comments would help

Dave

Answers

Hi Dave Allen
If you really want a new career then in my humble opinion PITT is THE ONLY place to go. I got mine from there and it’s doing really well now. The one thing that you will need esp in the early days of business development is a direct connection to the correct information (you can’t know or remember everything!!) as and when you need it - this is what PITT gives you 91 hours every week; you never know when you need it but when you do it will be there. It is the best thing I’ve ever got from any form of training throughout my life (and believe me I’ve done some!!)

Another thing you need is mentorship. If you get this already you are a very lucky man. I look at Paul as a mentor for my business and sometimes it’s tough going (especially mentally when you’re a one man band) but I can talk to Paul about any part of my business and he will always give me an answer or ‘food for thought’.

Paul has been there and done it from a tiling perspective and his entire team are friendly, professional and very knowledgable - I’ve had various situations (many of them) arise in the course of my work and each one has been sorted.

If you do go ahead on the PITT course I am often about as I get all my adhesives etc. from them and I would enjoy a chat with you if you wish
Good luck Dave

Aug 6 2006, 11:29 AM
Toots
——————————————————————————————-
Passed Pitt on the way to a job this morning for some info. Got the info as usual but half a mile down the road my van conked out (only bought it last wed!! ). Walked back to Pitt and Steve drove me to a garage to get some oil but that didn’t fix the problem. He then took me to their garage that they use and arranged for them to rescue it and see what they could do.

I really needed to see a potential customer at 12 O’clock so they lent me the use of their van so I could at least go and price up. This I did and also bypassed today’s customer and apologised. The job turned from a bathroom suite change to a full refurb while I was there on the ideas I put to them (which wouldn’t have happenend without transport!).

Took the van back (don’t think I set off too many speed cameras!! ) and they gave me lunch and drove me to the garage afterwards to pick up the van (£142 later - ouch!!!)

This has got nothing to do with tiling but everything to do with going the extra mile. In my humble opinion, in my dealings with Pitt they always try their best. Today they did their best to help me when my day went arse over tit.

To ALL the staff at Pitt - THANK YOU!
Mike McLeary

Jun 12 2006, 10:43 PM

——————————————————————————————-
I am currently running a Jewellers in Halifax, West Yorkshire but am wanting a change of career.
I want to join the building trade and fancy starting up as a wall & floor tiler.
the question is- How do I get started? There is a course being offered near to where I live:
Is this the sort of thing that will enable me to start? There is no formal qualification given once completed- Is there a requirement to in any aspect of tiling, or is it mainly experience?
Any help would gratefully be received!
The_Jeweller Unregistered
Jul 28 2006, 11:57 AM

Hi Jewller.
As you’re already a jewller I’d imagine your attention to detail would be good. So tiling is right up your street.
As for what course. Well you’re here on the PITT forum, which is set up for the use for people that have trained at PITT, so it makes sense to give PITT some consideration.
As I havent been PITT trained my self I can’t honestly say what the course is like, but I’ve met the guys, and they all are the genuine article.
If you ask ones that have trained at PITT, they will give you their honest opinion.
As I’ve said before on this forum, if I were starting up again now, I would be head straight up to stoke for 10 days.
branty1uk
Jul 29 2006, 08:58 AM

Thanks guys- I’m sorry the link I’d put has been edited
I really wasn’t trying to advertise another course, it was just that every time I look around the web for tiling courses PITT comes out tops! The link was for one that is only 12 miles from my home, so it would make sense to at least consider it.
Well, I went to have a look and it turns out it’s a bit of a Cowboy run establishment
Noone there could give me an straight answer and their website suggests they’ve had courses running since March this year, yet when I show up unannounced looking to see a course up and running I’m told its shut for a refurb and that the FIRST course is in September! WTF!? First ever? First after the refurb? I smelt a rat, so I contacted PITT and the person I spoke to was sooooo helpful, I know where I’ll be coming to train!
The decision to sell the shop has been made, so when this happens (It may now be early next year I suspect ) I am signing up to the 20 day course that involves basic plumbing! I feel a weight has been lifted from my shoulders now, I am so grateful to PITT before I even sign up.
Looking forward to seeing you ASAP!
Thanks again.

P.S. Thanks for the comment above about neatness- As a working Jeweller for the last 12 years I think I am probably a bit \”Overneat\” with most stuff…
The_Jeweller Unregistered
Jul 29 2006, 10:47 AM

Hi The_Jeweller
I did the Pitt course last year and am doing well as a self employed tiler and bathroom installer. It’s a lot more fun (and work!!) than my last job but wouldn’t consider anything else now. The course was more than good enough to start me off and the tech helpline is second to none - AND it has been a godsend to me.

I’m interested in why you’re leaving a skilled business though?

Getting back to the course - the guys and gals there are absolutely brill and they definitely know their stuff. If you go down this route let us know how you get on - it’s always great to see someone succeed in a new career.
Good luck.
Toots
Jul 29 2006, 07:25 PM
——————————————————————————————-
I am a 38 year old freelance musician who needs an additional source of income and have been considering tiling. Any suggestions on the most appropriate and useful courses?
Jimmy Trumpet
Jul 25 2006, 10:51 AM

I would recommend you have a look at our 10 day wall & floor tiling or our 4 week course. If you have broadband internet connection call me on 01782 566166 for a live tour of our premises. Don’t forget once you have completed a course with us we offer a back service, so 91 hours every week we’re here to support you.

Hi there Jimmy. I trained at PITT about 15 months ago and have been a self employed tiler for 12 months. They are a topp class training centre and I would agree with Ang. The 10 day course will give you more than enough info to help you on your way
Dale T
Jul 26 2006, 09:04 PM

I’m nearly halfway through the 10 day Wall and Floor tiling course now, so if you want some current feedback and honest answers..let me know.
Big Si
Jul 27 2006, 05:15 PM

I’m getting a lot out of the course because basically this is going to be my livelyhood! It’s like that old saying: you only get out what you put in!
I’m not going to go in to too much detail on this public forum about the guys here (they’ll only get big headed! you can contact me directly for some details if you want)
Basically, I did a LOT of research on nearly every tiling training company out there, I even spoke to tile retailers and fixers. I could have paid a lot less on a course closer to home, but I’ll be honest, they couldn’t compare and to put it bluntly..money’s a bit tight at the moment. In a nut shell, I know I’ve got the right course for me and I know that with what I’ve learn’t so far, and my basic ability beforehand I can do a much better job than some tilers I’ve seen.
With regards to prospects when I’ve finished the course, I’ve got a few jobs lined up with mates that are in the building trades, but I’ve got a lot of work to keep that coming in from everywhere else. Business Link and Entrust can help you set you business up with free advice and training sessions with everything
from marketing to tax.
The thing is, you have to decide what’s right for you.
Good luck…and hope to speak to you soon!
Big Si
Jul 29 2006, 09:28 PM

Just re-read my post…when I mentioned about the money what I MEANT to say was that, money is tight and the courses local to me were a third of the price I paid for my course. It’s because I’m so confident that the PITT training and support is the best one for me that I shelled out the extra money.
(must remember not to go on the forum when I’m knackered!!)
Big Si
Jul 29 2006, 09:37 PM

Hi Big Si
It’s good to see that someone else is getting as much from the course as I did!!
Hope all goes well in your new profession
Toots
Jul 29 2006, 09:57 PM

——————————————————————————————-
Just a short note to say what marvellous service PITT give to ‘ex - students’.
Last week I ordered some gear, which as usual turned up the next day. When I opened the second box, 30 odd quids-worth of AD1 had burst open. (it took me nearly 2 hours to get a tub of white star out of the box ). I spoke to Angela yesterday, and hey presto, a new, expertly packed AD1 came this morning (wrapped in enough bubble wrap to start a shop).
Superb.

Paul. (Bones)
Jun 27 2006, 01:35 PM
——————————————————————————————–
just a few words on the stone course we have just compleated and i would like to say that it was very informative and a bit of an eyeopener.
if you have any dealings with natural stone then this course is for you.
it makes the treating of natural stone a lot easier and quicker than the old methods and could save you a lot of time if you are a fixer and lay this sort of tile. i would advise any of you who have been thinking of doing the course to try and get on the course if you can.
once again paul i would like to thank you and jase and the aquamix lads for a good informative and constructive couple of days.i enjoyed it a lot and the night out was ok as well.
martin saunders May 31 2006, 01:12 PM
——————————————————————————————–
Just a quick note on the Natural Stone course held last week, anybody involved in laying natural stone would find this course an addition to there current business. It is one of the best training courses i have attended i have been to some. No matter what level your at in the business you can learn something new from this. happy to talk to nayone who wants more info on the training.

Frank Hegarty (Ireland)
Jun 5 2006, 08:35 PM
——————————————————————————————-
Hi lads its lee i did the course on the 15th to 26th of may, and really enjoyed it. I start my first bathroom sat morning and have 4 other jobs waiting. im looking forward to sat but also a bit nervous, so expect the call jase or kev.
To anyone thinking about doing the tiling courses i would say CALL them and get down there, a great way to learn no pressure or school styles of training just a group of very talented lads that enjoy passing on there knowledge.

Thank again
Lee
Jun 1 2006, 10:02 PM
———————————————————————————————
A big thanks to Paul and Jase for their help and advice after calling in on the training centre on saturday.Where else would you get this kind of service after completing a course? Many thanks once again and keep up the great work at Pitt
IAN . A
May 30 2006, 07:19 PM
——————————————————————————————
Must say that I completed the course today and it was an absolute eye opener to the world of stone, tile and grout care, maintenance and restoration options. I will never be afraid of working with natural stones ever again!!!!

There are some excellent business ideas and opportunities that can either be developed ancillary to tiling or as a complete package in its own right.

If anyone is in doubt as to whether to attend this type of course you are more than welcome to pm me on how I found the course and what I got from it!

Thanks again to Bill, Frank and Ian for all their time, effort and incredible knowledge and advice throughout the course. Thanks also to all the guys & gals at Pitt for their ever friendly and helpful hospitality.

Toots—-May 30 2006, 09:11 PM
——————————————————————————————-
Hi,
A quick note to say that I have just finished the 5 day assessment package. WHAT AN EYE OPENER!!! If anyone is unsure of their abilities after completing either of the 5 day courses then book one of the assessment courses. The guys take you through everything, from measuring up, quoting, ordering through to the finished job. Kev will tell you after 2 days I was ready to pull my hair out thinking I would not do it, with their guidence and tips I managed to complete what I set out to do. Thanks to Jase, Kev and Paul for all the great tips and hints that you passed onto me, I have had to get another note book to remember them.
May 27 2006, 12:37 PM
rob7898
——————————————————————————————-
phil,
dont worry mate, when we’re ready to open \”dusk till dawn\” in notts (should be december) i will arrange vip tickets for the opening night for all at pitt as a big thanks for the fantastic support you gave me during and after my course!
cheers darren-May 25 2006, 05:49 PM
——————————————————————————————-
Guys, I’m sorry its taken me a few weeks to post this but you only have yourselves to blame!!!!
As a plumber already I thought it may be a good idea to do a tiling course
and pick up an extra bit of work. Well since doing the 10 day course which was
worth every penny Ive not stopped. I still get a bit worried when I take some jobs on, but its nice to know the boys are on the other end of the phone to help with any problems. If anybody is thinking of doing on a tiling course then look no further.
A million thanks to Paul,Jase,kev and the Gang at PITT.

Martin (Badger) Apr 12 2006, 08:55 PM
——————————————————————————————-
Finished the 5 day course last Friday 31st March ‘06. I’ve got to say it’s the best 5 hundred and odd quid I’ve ever spent. I don’t know whether I learnt more from the actual content of the course, or from chatting to Steve & Paul during the fag breaks!!
I’ve done some tiling for friends and family in the past and thought my efforts were pretty good. Looking at my kitchen splashback now, I’d do things a lot different. For anyone out there wondering whether they should fork out the cash to train at PITT I’d say do it. the time spent covering setting out properly was worth the course fee alone, the practical side was easy after that.
Even though I only didi the 5 day course, I now feel confident enough to give this trade a go and start making a living doing something I enjoy.
Thanks to Steve, Kev and Paul for their knowledge. (and Norma, that shepherds pie on Thursday was fantastic!!)
Paul.
Apr 2 2006, 07:18 PM
———————————————————————————————-
Also finished the five day course last friday and just wanted to say what a great week it was! If there is anyone out there thinking of getting into this game then get your sheckles together and go for it. You will not regret it! The day and a half on setting out was worth the money alone. The level of training and knowledge of the instructors was second to none but more importantly was delivered in way that was easy to understand and digest in a short space of time. Steve, kev - you were great! Norma, your food was delicious. What more can i say.
Thanks again,
Gabor
Apr 2 2006, 10:38 PM
———————————————————————————————-
should have put this in my origonal post but just wanted to let any anyone whos thinking of doing any of the courses at PITT that i came all the way from denmark specifcally to attend the five day wall and floor. thats how much i was sold on doing it from reading previous comments on the forum and talking to some of the team over the phone and will probably come back to do the refresher if they ever invent one!!

gabor Apr 6 2006, 07:08 PM
———————————————————————————————-
Day and a half onsetting out? maybe you lads know something i dont no.
petethetiler Apr 7 2006, 05:25 PM
———————————————————————————————
Maybe Pete

Depends whether you are setting out to meet the criteria of British Standards. Or just centering.

Jase Apr 7 2006, 05:43 PM
———————————————————————————————-
I completed a ten day course in Oct 2005 and got a felt tip gold star from jase on my work during the course.Made the jump few weeks ago to go self employed after doing several jobs either side of xmas for a few customers. I went on the course with a \”cant teach me much/ got all the tools anyway\” attitude and was pleasantly suprised by what i learnt but more importantly how to tile to a first class standard. To hear some \” ive been a tiler 20 years blah blah blah how can PITT say your professional? cowboys yak yak yak etc\” is absolute nonsense. I could tile before the course, to a reasonable standard, but wanted to make my living in this field and the appeal of working for myself without some boss looking over my shoulder talking pants proved the deciding factor. If id have thought for a nanosecond that PITT was taking my money for substandard teaching, believe you me i would have let them know and got my money back. When youve worked in the delights of mosside as a bobby for 8 years you soon learn to suss the chancers and blaggers and PITT do not fall into this catagory.With what i learnt and was taught by PITT has started to pay huge dividends, as i am getting recommendations left right and centre based on the quality of my work. Which brings me to my point. So imagine the scenario. I get talking to an old school mate in january who is a very highly regarded corgi registerded plumber who specialises in top notch bathroom refits for serious money and his work is fantastic. Hes not happy with the standard of tiling work of his two tilers because of various things and these two fellas have twenty two and fifteen years experience between them. Hes putting 15mm marine ply on wooden floors for them to tile to. \”Why dont they use fastflex?\” i mused to which end i gat a vacant stare followed by an indepth education from me courtesy of PITT. Two weeks later i get a call from him to do a job for him full walls and floor, no probs sez i and away we go. On the day of the job i find out the customer is a retired boss of H&R Johnsons tiles so no pressure there then.Result? i get one very happy customer and an ecstatic plumber who sacks his two time served know it all tilers and gives me all his tiling work (Gas n Electrical in kidsgroves top plumber for your info paul , jase etc). I am now getting shed loads of work as a result based on pure quality and as for the so called \”time served \” jobsworths i have tiled three full bathrooms on one new build estate after seddon homes tilers had given it their best with shoddy results. I will certainly be applying for my P.A.T this week because im bloody good at what im doing and as my bank balance is beginning to testify. I couldnt have acheived it though without the top notch training i got from PITT so once again big thanks to you all.I even called in at a specialist tile supplier in crewe recently who queried who had trained me and when i said who said \”thats more than good enough for me ive got loads of work for you\”. So if you wanna criticise PITT feel free but theyve done me a world of good and im going places thanks very much.

Jase

P.S Colin from tile experience says hi to paul.(more work for me)

P.P.S Do i win a lockboy??????

Mar 27 2006, 12:06 AM
gold star jase
———————————————————————————————-
hi,
I am up here in Edinburgh and I need to retrain due to lack of work in my existing job. Heard loads of talk about a shortage of plumbers and bathroom fitters in my area.
Does the Pitt plumbing course teach enough skill to be able to do small plumbing jobs mainly in bathromms and kitchens?

thanks
cosmic Mar 21 2006, 02:19 PM
——————————————————————————————
I did the plumbing course mate and I would say yes, you will be able to pick enough up from the PITT course. If you have got a bit of nowse about you and you listen to what they tell you, you will be fine.
Since, I did the course I have fitted several toilets, mixer taps and a few baths, so it does work.
I would recommend it anyway
Dale T Mar 21 2006, 06:43 PM
——————————————————————————————-
Yeah, did the plumbing last week, learned loads - and had a great laugh (mainly at my expense ) in the process. All joints airtight as well

Was going to offer my Mum a Sure Stop thingy for free to see how easy they were to fit but Severn sodding Trent beat me to it, fitted it last week, they charge £119 for one

Getting back to the course, Cosmic, I haven’t done any plumbing in the past (unlike tiling) and was a bit apprehensive but now I’m happy to do any type of plumbing in the bathroom or kitchen, it’s taught me a heluva lot!

Go do it!

Toots Mar 22 2006, 12:40 AM
——————————————————————————————–
My name is Neville Whitley and I live in Devon.
Last June I attended a PITT Tiling Course in Necastle under Lyme.
I found the course to be very informative, easy going and very enjoyable.
In October I started my new career. The first job I secured was 100 sq. metres of 40mm x 20mm uneven floor tiles (Frightening). The second job was tiling the surrounds of a swimming pool (Nightmare). The third was a prestiges local Hotel’s several bathroom walls and floors(Cannot get it wrong). I have since tiled bathroom and kitchen walls and floors on a smaller scale (Relax a bit). However I have to say that I would not have taken on any of this work if I had not attended the PITT Training Course. The confidence the course gave me was invaluable and the back up support I have received from Paul Riley, Jason and all the staff at PITT has been first class and life-saving.
Might be nothing to them but everything to me.
Tiling is not Rocket Science but there is a right way to do it and a wrong way, there is an easy way and a hard way, and at the end of the day you are in somebody else’s house and it has got to be right.
I can’t thank PITT enough.
Even today I can ring up and get the same friendly back up and support I need without feeling inhibited or afraid and always given the confidence to keep my head down and keep going and YOU WILL SUCCEED.
If you are like me worried about the future, about meeting the bills, give it a go,
Tiling isn’t so bad and there is a living to be made and you couldn’t do better than attending the PITT course and benefiting from it’s superb back up service which is completely free of charge.
NevilleWhitley
Give me a call 07792445127
Mar 16 2006, 09:12 PM
——————————————————————————————–
Paul, thanks very much for your help and advice this morning, it really does show why PITT deserves to be the leading training centre. I have recommended PITT to a few people now and my mates wife is actually booked onto your tiling course in early March.
Thanks again, your advice has picked my spirits up, so it is just up to me now to go out and get it done.
Cheers, Dale
Dale T Feb 23 2006, 11:23 PM
————————————————————————————————
Ok guys I am looking for some sound advice from the pro’s. I am a 42yr old engineer who is racked off with the industry big time. I am contemplating a career change into the tiling world. I have quite a bit of experience of DIY (DON’T LAUGH) tiling. I like to do a good job, with quality finishes etc. Can anyone give me some advice as to the pros and cons of doing this for a living.
I need to earn about 35k a year and I don’t mind working hard for it. Is this achieveable. I will be grateful for any info and advice you may have. Thanks.
Alan Mar 6 2006, 02:57 PM

I have been a full time tiler now since August. I was trained by the guys at PITT and if you are seriously thinking of tiling for a living, I would strongly recommend that you go on one of the PITT courses first.
Doing as DIY and doing as a living are very different.
If you need to earn £35,000, I would recommend that you get some contacts first that can sort you out some work. It obviously takes time to build a business and start earning serious money, unless someone can help you out or at least point you in the right direction.
Good luck
Dale T Mar 6 2006, 07:54 PM

I did the PITT course and thought it was very worthwhile. The setting out that is taught there is excellent and in my opinion is one of the most important parts of tiling along with product selection. Get that wrong and your in for a hard job. I went there because the colleges and goverment have made it almost impossible for anyone over 30 to train in building trades in Scotland.
I would think your salary demands would be on the high side to start off with but there are those with experience and speed who can make more than that unfotunately I am not in that category
Backdraught Mar 6 2006, 08:13 PM

I did the PITT course last Sept at the age of 45 and it set me on my way. Like you I had loads of DIY experience but needed something to tie it all together. The PITT course gave me all this including business development ideas and continuous ongoing technical support. I’ve been self employed for over 4 months now only wish I’d done it years ago. Going back next week to do the plumbing course so I can do complete bathrooms. Regarding your required income, if you get into supplying tiles and adhesives for your customers you can make a fair income on this side alone but as Dale T said you need to network and develop contacts.
Hi Alan,

The fact that you take pride in your work will always work in your favour long term and quality is one thing you never have to apologise for. It is hard work at times but it’s worth it.
Good luck
Toots Mar 6 2006, 10:14 PM
——————————————————————————————-
Paul, thanks very much for your help and advice this morning, it really does show why PITT deserves to be the leading training centre. I have recommended PITT to a few people now and my mates wife is actually booked onto your tiling course in early March.
Thanks again, your advice has picked my spirits up, so it is just up to me now to go out and get it done.
Cheers, Dale
Thanks, Feb 24 2006, 06:38 PM
——————————————————————————————-
I was also one of the 22 last week. I have now done both the Tiling and Plumbing courses and can say that they are both excellent. Confidence is something that we all struggle with at first, but with the right training that you will get from PITT, the confidence will soon improve. All I can say is, do the training and then decide what you want to do from there.
Feb 15 2006, 09:59 AM
Dale T
——————————————————————————————-
I am about to start in the trade in the next 2 weeks. I have just completed a 3 week course at Bentlet’s in Dunstable ( not recommend it to any one, for various reaons) and about to start 2 weeks advance Plastering. From then, out into the wide world of tiling.

I’ve done plenty of tiling on my own house and also many weeks with my uncle in Norfolk who’s been in the game for 20 years.

I am in the Brigg area (N Lincolnshire) and if theres anyone out there who could give me some good start up tips, it would be appreciated.

You can have all the help you need, sorry it did not work out, we try to get people to attend the leading centre, thank you the PITT team

——————————————————————————————–
I have just completed the Pitt plumbing course. Not really alot to say apart from yet another well run course by the guys at Pitt. I could not believe how much I picked up in just 5 days. A big big thanks to John and Steve, the trainers. You will have a great laugh aswell as learn loads.
Stop keep thinking about it and just book it

Feb 12 2006, 08:09 PM
Dale T
——————————————————————————————-
Well i got PITT trained in 2004 on the 5 day tiling course. I’m sure that you would learn much more in the 10 day but my budget at that time couldnt stretch that far. I tried loads of careers before then, mostly office based and hated all of them. Since doing the course i’ve never looked back, and i still phone them up just to double check things i’m unsure of, no matter how simple or stupid they were, i am always warmly welcomed no matter wot time it was!!!

I have to say how much i am in thanks to the guys at PITT for changing my life for the better. Being self employed is amazing and a breath of fresh air. Knowing that i’m doing the jobs the right way first time round and knowing that i will not be getting callbacks is very satisfying. I have to say that without their after support i would have struggled. Amazing value for money considering what you come away with. Go for it mate. There’s a lot to learn and we’re all still learning, but with the forum and their help over the phone your’e never far away from friendly advice.

All the best

Rich Feb 11 2006, 11:28 AM
gt4ever
——————————————————————————————
I can only agree with what GT and Toots have already said. Also it is a relaxed friendly teaching enviroment which makes learning a lot easier IMO. professionaly tought and still have a laugh

Backdraught
Feb 11 2006, 11:48 AM
——————————————————————————————

Just like to say thanks to all the staff at PITT.

Did the tiling course last august and had been pondering doing the plumbing course for some time. Did it this week, went to my local for a pint on friday night and picked-up a full en-suite refurb job.

Both of the courses at PITT have been excellent, and i would reiterate what toots etc. have said, it can be bloody hard work, but very satisfying and you are in control.

Good luck
Buzz Feb 11 2006, 10:54 AM
——————————————————————————————
Hi all,

I am considering a 10 day wall floor tiling course with PITT, what i would like to know is:

Is 10 days really long enough to learn how to tile a full room?

And after the 10 day course, will i be upto a good enough standard to actually start my own business?

Can anybody comment on this?

Many thanks,
Paul

Hi Paul,the 10 day tiling course with Pitt is well worth the money and time.After completing the course my self last year i was amazed at how much we did learn with in the 10 days.I came away with enough knowledge to start up selfemployed and there is plenty of work out there,as i have found out.Well recommended.

Hi Paul,
In answer to your questions - Yes and er.. Yes.
I did just that last year. Did the PITT 10 dayer in Sept and left work end of Oct.
My first quarter was well over a grand more than if I’d have stayed at my job and that included 3 weeks off over xmas and new year where i earned nowt!!
Believe it or not the best tool you have is the continual help afterwards - it really is invaluable. Going back soon to do the plumbing course.

If you want to PM me for more info feel free
Good luck!

Hiya Paul, i completed the 2 week course last week and have already been asked to tile 2 kitchens a month and the odd en-suite for a local kitchen & bedroom installer.
This was secured by the guy being so impressed with the course notes/literature i let him see.
I’m buzzing with confidence and can’t wait to ‘get at it’.
He has a full order-book for 6 months so I’m off to a flying start!!!!

Thanks for the comments lads, you’ve made up my mind, i’ll book a course within the next couple of weeks.

Thanks for the PM offer Toots, might speak to you in a couple of weeks before i book the course if you don’t mind?

Thanks,
Paul

Tiling Courses

I am looking for a BAL tile adhesive supplier in the staffordshire area.

See the link beow

Trades Direct 

Question

I’m a homeowner, not tiling professional but wondered if anyone on the forum might be able to help with a tiling problem.

We had our bathroom refurbished by a bathroom company, including full tiling on walls and floor three months ago. Unfortunately cracking in the floor grout has appeared already. The cracking is more or less in a line and extends across most of the width of our small bathroom. As it is in a line it looks like some movement is occurring along that line. We wondered if a less painful solution than ripping up the floor and starting again could be found. Hence, I wondered if members on the forum knew if there was any suitable flexible additive that can be mixed with epoxy grout to give it more flexibility so that we could regrout where the crack has formed? The flooring consists of mosaic tiles which have been grouted with a coloured epoxy grout (the brand name for the grout is Bisazza who also make the mosaics). We’ve spoken to the manufacturer, although I don’t think I got to speak to anyone with much technical knowledge. They thought there was some flexibility in the grout anyway but couldn’t suggest anything extra to add to make it more flexible. Does anyone know of anything that might suit? Unfortunately we have to stick with the same grout or the colour won’t match so its just a case of trying to find an additive.
Answer
Do you know what adhesive they used? and was it tilled to floor boards or ply? Epoxy is the most flexible gout you can get.
If you want to follow this post or other tiling related questions folow the link to tile forums.

Tiling question 

The leading Tile association is about to hit the industry.
For many years the NMTFA and others including the TTA have formed the industry standards association, however with much discontent from many manufacturers and tile fixers alike we after many meetings are forming what will be the leading association in the tile industry.
The TTA is now operating with very split representation of the industry, they support some manufacturers but not many, and the tile fixer the heart of our industry is ignored in completeness, however you will have a choice to support the association you prefer.
We have been in talks with many manufacturers for the past 36 months along with tile fixers both new and existing tradesmen to find the missing link, and we are now ready to launch the second but what will be the most recognised tiling association in the United Kingdom.
The benefits you will receive are technical advice from 8-00am to 9-00pm
Information on a wide range of manufacturer’s products.
An open forum that leads the industry.
Discounted insurance
Independent reports on tiling disputes.
Discounted Arbitration
Information on Retailers.
Monthly newsletter.
Lower subscriptions.
Training Advise and help
Technical Specification leaflets.
Industry Standards
Seminars arranged North, South and the Midlands
The Executive committee to be appointed.
Statistics given of industries tiling failures

This association will bring together the tile fixer, the manufacturer of adhesives and grouts and even the importer’s that are delivering our industry with large tiles and flooding the country with natural stone materials we are not prepared for or are we?

There are many un-answered questions asked on a daily basis, and who will give the answer? Yes the new leading association will make this tiling industry the world leader. Keep your eyes peeled on this forum for up-dates on this new association, please post your interests and what you would like to see formed as we build this new association.

Post if you are interested.
What involvement would you like?
Who should be on the executive committee?
Who should be on the regional committee?
Tell the manufacturers you want a new association.

Do you want the best in communication from an association that wants to talk with suppliers, importers, tilers and manufacturers as well as anyone who is involved in our growing industry?

We will see the name PTA (Professional’s Tiling Association)

For interest in this association contact us on 01782 566166, annual premium to be decided at the first meeting held early January 2007 at the Stop-inn Hotel in Newcastle under Lyme.

First meeting to be arranged and posted here soon.

Proposed committee

Executive Chairman

Executive (deputy) Chairman

Sectary

Retail Sector (4 posts)

Manufacturing Sector (7 posts) (1 held by Building Adhesives Ltd)

Training Sector (4 posts) (1 held by PITTL Ltd)

Contractor Sector (9 posts)

Marketing (TBA)

Sales (TBA)

Admin Staff

Send a letter in full to the address below of your interest in attending the committee meeting held in January 2007

62 Brick Kiln Lane
Newcastle-under-Lyme
Staffordshire
ST5 7AS
Tel 01782 566166
Fax 01782 566466
E Mail pta@professional-itt.com

Tiling Association

PITT and Aquamix natural stone products joined forces some 12 months ago to bring the skills required in the UK’s demanding natural stone installation and treatment of the surfaces.

tiling courses

Aquamix, the leading company in tile care,

Aquamix, at trades-direct