CTEF Improves Two Core Training Programs

Pendleton, SC, April 1, 2024-The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) has improved two core tile installation training programs: Understanding and Installing Ceramic Tile (UICT) and Comprehensive Shower Class.

“Based on student feedback, observations, and the need for additional repetitions, CTEF felt it was important to expand these two training programs to offer more hands-on training time and better explanations of the different methods to achieve a goal”, says Brad Denny, CTEF executive director. “It’s critical for anyone installing ceramic tile to understand why certain actions or techniques are performed and how to execute them. We hope this change better distributes the students’ time for the best ROI.”

The UICT course offers basic instruction in the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) handbook and ANSI specifications along with live demonstrations and actual hands-on experience for the individual seeking an entry-level installer position with a tile contractor. It is also designed for the salesperson, technical service representative, or any other individual seeking a basic working knowledge of ceramic tile.

Formerly a 4.5-day course, UICT has been expanded to a full five days. All aspects of the thin-bed (thin-set) tile installation process including floor prep and installation materials are covered during this 5-day program that takes place at CTEF training facilities in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey and Pendelton, South Carolina. The course costs $1,095.

Formerly known as Mortar Shower Base & Waterproofing, the Comprehensive Shower Class has expanded from a 1 and 1/2-day program to a three-day course focused on properly installing different TCNA methods of shower receptor assembly. This includes common mistakes and causes of tile installation failure.

Attendees will individually construct their own traditional-type shower base and curb out of mortar while following industry-accepted methods and requirements for waterproofing tile showers. They will also learn about alternative shower systems and products available on the market, shower pan repair techniques, as well as sheet and liquid membranes that are used in various waterproofing applications.

Emphasis is placed on achieving optimal performance out of wet area materials and methods to ideally eliminate failures and callbacks. Because instructors address the full spectrum of industry-accepted materials and methods, attendees gain the ability to select appropriate materials and methods for the various wet area jobs and challenges that may be encountered.

The course costs $795 and can easily be bundled with Understanding & Installing Ceramic Tile for a 20% discount. The total cost would then be $1,495.

Both classes offer a certificate of attendance.