Floor Finisher

Your Fit

Income

$48K

Preparation

Minimal

Growth

0.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Floor Finisher?

A Floor Finisher is a specialized tradesperson who applies finish coatings to floors to protect and enhance their appearance. They work with a variety of materials including hardwood, concrete, and synthetic flooring, applying finishes such as varnishes, sealers, and stains.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Floor Finisher.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Floor Finisher earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$33K per year	$38K per year	$48K per year	$58K per year	$70K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $300 below the national average.

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What does a Floor Finisher do?

Work environment

Floor Finishers typically work indoors in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. The environment can be dusty and involves exposure to fumes from finishing products. Safety equipment like masks and gloves is often necessary, and the work may require bending, kneeling, and long periods of standing.

Quick task list

Prepares floor surfaces for finishing, including cleaning, sanding, and repairing.
Mixes and applies finish coatings like lacquer, varnish, or epoxy.
Operates equipment such as buffers and sanders.
Inspects and assesses the quality of finished work.
Maintains a clean and safe work environment.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Hardwood Floor Finishing: Specializing in applying finishes to hardwood floors.
Concrete Floor Finishing: Focusing on sealing and finishing concrete surfaces.
Epoxy Floor Coating: Applying durable epoxy finishes, often in industrial settings.
Decorative Finishing: Creating aesthetic finishes with stains, dyes, or artistic techniques.
Restoration Finishing: Specializing in restoring and refinishing historical or damaged floors.

Description

Floor finishing is a skilled profession that requires a keen eye for detail and a steady hand. Floor Finishers must understand the characteristics of different flooring materials and how they interact with various finishes. They need to be adept at using tools and equipment for sanding, buffing, and applying finishes, ensuring a smooth and even application.

The occupation involves both technical skill and artistic ability. Floor Finishers often have to make decisions about the best type of finish to use, taking into account factors like traffic, usage, and desired appearance. They must be precise in their work, as the final look of the floor can significantly impact the overall aesthetics of a space.

This field is continuously evolving with the development of new materials and finishing products. Professionals in this trade need to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques, which often means ongoing learning and skill development.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Transforming and enhancing the appearance of floors.
The satisfaction of delivering high-quality, durable finishes.
Opportunities to work with a variety of materials and in different settings.
Seeing the direct impact of your work on a space.

You might make a good Floor Finisher if you are...

Detail-oriented, with a focus on achieving a high-quality finish.
Comfortable working with your hands and operating tools and machinery.
Patient and precise in your work.
Interested in both the technical and artistic aspects of floor finishing.
Able to work independently and make informed decisions.

Pros:

Opportunities for creative expression in your work.
Steady demand in both residential and commercial sectors.
Satisfaction in seeing the immediate and tangible results of your labor.

Cons:

Physical demands, including prolonged standing, bending, and exposure to dust and fumes.
Potential health risks from exposure to chemicals in finishing products.
Work may be affected by economic fluctuations in the construction and renovation industries.

How to become a Floor Finisher

Typical education

Most Floor Finishers learn their trade through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. A high school diploma is usually sufficient for entry into the field, and formal training programs can last from a few months to 2 years.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop or vocational courses to develop hands-on skills.
Chemistry for understanding the properties of various finishes and solvents.
Art or design classes to enhance aesthetic sensibilities.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in arts and crafts projects that involve detailed work.
Joining a construction or renovation club if available.
Volunteering in community service projects that include renovation or restoration work.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in a vocational training program focusing on floor finishing techniques.
Seek apprenticeship opportunities with experienced floor finishers or flooring companies.
Stay informed about new materials and techniques through workshops and industry publications.

More resources

National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) - Provides education and resources for wood flooring professionals.
The Concrete Network - Offers information on concrete floor finishing.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Guidelines for safety in handling finishing products and equipment.
Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) - Resources and training for decorative and specialty finishes.

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