Stuck in a Rut and Need Your Help

[Brad]

hi guys

It's been a while since i was on this site. Briefly reading some of the recent threads has made me realise what i have been missing out on. This is a really good forum and i hope one day to be in a position to give more than receive.

Anyway, my first question is this: Is there an experienced tiler out there that is willing to take me on for any future tiling work? I've been tiling for over a year now and have a good few jobs under my belt, however, i feel that the knowledge i have gained has not been in proportion to my work experience. I have been working for a really nice guy over the past five months or so and the work has been regular. However, because I am one of the least experienced tilers on the team I pretty much get handed the simpler, less technical jobs to do. I was hoping to have gained more technical knowledge by now by working along with more experienced tilers on more complicated jobs, but it hasn't worked out that way.

I want to become more than an average tiler. I want to be really good at what i do. I live in sw london, so if there is anyone out there in the london area that needs an extra pair of hands please let me know. Thanks a million!!

Secondly, I want to ask a question on priming plaster, screed, cement, etc...... a understand what is required for new substrate, but do i need to prime old cement, etc? and why is pva not recommended as a primer?

thanks for taking the time, guys and have a good day!

[beanz]

Hello Brad, take a look Here for all the info on PVA vs Primer.
Good luck with the search for another tiler that'll take you on, but to be honest, you're lucky to have found one already; there are a lot of new tilers looking. Have a chat with your boss, explain how you feel about your lack of progress. You never know mate....

[Fred]

Brad, at this time mate, if your getting regular work, count that as a blessing and stick with it until this mess of a world is more settled............IMHO

[Brad]

Hello Brad, take a look Here for all the info on PVA vs Primer.
Good luck with the search for another tiler that'll take you on, but to be honest, you're lucky to have found one already; there are a lot of new tilers looking. Have a chat with your boss, explain how you feel about your lack of progress. You never know mate....

Thanks beanz for that link. I,m a lot clearer now. Good on ya!

[garythetiler]

my advice is dont run before you can walk,if you were to get complicated modular setting out or intricate mosaic work ,marble floors etc and muck it up it will knock your confidence ,there is no problem at being given less technical work at this point in your career as you gain experience you will be trusted with the harder stuff, as fred said you are lucky to be working and you will be amazed at how far you will have come in another 12 months what you will find is the other tilers you work with will get you to help with their pj's and this will also improve your skill level

[doug boardley]

I agree with Gary,see Oli's signature ( a quote from gaztech), it's a shame you're not up in the lake district Brad, 'cos been thinking lately about getting a lift with some work. Stick at it mate, it will come!!