SkillHero
January 5, 2024
Are you fascinated by the different types of coverings you see decorating walls? If so, becoming a wallcovering installer might be right for you. It's a lucrative but accessible skilled trade with a small worker base, which gives you a higher chance of becoming prolific in the industry.
Professional wallcovering installers work with a variety of business and consumer clients, from residential wallpaper to industrial metal to noise reduction in recording studios.
If you're ready to get started, sign up for a free SkillHero account to gain access to tools, resources, and connections within the trade industry. Then finish reading this article to learn the necessary steps to kickstart your career.
What is a wallcovering installer?
A wallcovering installer is a skilled trade worker who specializes in the installation of various types of wallcoverings, such as wallpaper, vinyl, fabric, wood paneling, and metal. They work in residential, industrial, and commercial settings, providing decorative and functional solutions for interior spaces.
Trade paths within the industry include general wallcovering installer, acoustic wallcovering installer, and specializations based on specific types of coverings.
A typical day in the life of a wallcovering installer may involve meeting with clients to discuss their needs and preferences, measuring and preparing surfaces for installation, accurately cutting and applying wallcoverings, and ensuring a clean and polished finished product.
Between choosing the right patterns and materials, understanding and anticipating common types of product issues, and answering client questions, wallcovering installers enjoy challenging work that involves a variety of activities and skills.
What's the average wallcovering installer salary?
The average wallcovering installer salary varies based on experience level. According to the latest data, apprentices can expect to earn around $30,250, journeymen earn an average of $44,930, and masters can earn up to $71,220.
Salaries also vary based on factors such as location, trade path, and specialized skills. Certain geographic areas may come with higher wages, and workers with more experience or specialized skills can command higher salaries.
How hard is it to become a wallcovering installer?
Becoming a wallcovering installer presents unique challenges that require a combination of skills, education, training, and physical fitness. Wallcovering installation demands attention to detail and precision combined with creativity and an eye for design.
Novice installers must master the ability to accurately measure, cut, and align various types of wallcoverings while ensuring a smooth and flawless finish. The physical demands of the job, such as lifting and positioning heavy materials, also add to the difficulty.
How to become a wallcovering installer in the United States
If you're interested in becoming a wallcovering installer, there are a few key steps to take to get started. As a small, specialized field within the construction industry, wallcovering installers are in high demand.
Here's an overview of the core steps you'll need to follow to get started as a professional installer:
Get a high school diploma or equivalent
Obtaining a high school diploma or an equivalent credential is crucial for pursuing a career in skilled trades. Most employers require a high school diploma as a minimum qualification for entry-level positions. It also demonstrates a candidate's commitment and ability to follow through with long-term goals.
For those who did not complete high school, there are alternatives such as the GED test or adult education programs. These options provide an opportunity to earn a credential equivalent to a high school diploma and improve job prospects in skilled trade careers.
Create a skilled trade resume
Having a great resume is crucial for anyone looking for opportunities in the skilled trades. Employers want to see a clear and concise representation of your skills and experience.
SkillHero provides a resume builder specifically tailored for skilled trade workers, with a database of industry-relevant skills that have been vetted by experts in the field.
A resume is your go-to tool for demonstrating your knowledge, courses you've completed, certificates you've earned, and giving them a snapshot of why you're a great choice for the position. Once you've created a resume on SkillHero you can easily share it with companies offering wallcovering installer jobs on the app, or export it as a PDF to use elsewhere.
Find an apprenticeship program
Apprenticeship programs are an essential part of learning and mastering any skilled trade. Through hands-on training, classroom learning, and mentorship, apprentices gain valuable skills and knowledge in their chosen field.
SkillHero's ApprenticeConnect feature makes it easy for students and aspiring trade workers to find opportunities in a variety of trades. By connecting with apprenticeship programs nearby, individuals can take advantage of a valuable learning opportunity while also building a network of industry contacts.
Whether you’re interested in wallcovering or another trade like carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work, SkillHero can help you find the perfect apprenticeship program to kickstart your career.
Network within the industry
Networking within the skilled trades industry offers numerous benefits, including gaining access to valuable contacts and potential job opportunities. By connecting with other skilled trade workers and industry professionals, you can broaden your network and open up new avenues for career growth and development.
SkillHero's connections tab provides a convenient platform for finding and connecting with other individuals in your trade. In addition, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and attending local trade events, industry conferences, and trade shows are also great ways to expand your professional network.
Building relationships with professionals in your industry can lead to mentorship opportunities, advice, and potential job leads. Joining professional associations within your trade can also provide valuable networking opportunities, as well as access to additional resources and support.
Obtain and update relevant certifications
Wallcovering installers need to stay current with certifications to ensure they have the up-to-date knowledge and skills required for their trade.
Common certifications for wallcovering installers include the Residential Installation Specialist (RIS) certification, which demonstrates expertise in residential installation techniques and processes.
The Wallcovering Installers School offers a variety of certifications for different wallcovering types, such as vinyl, fabric, and digital prints. It's important for wallcovering installers to update their certifications regularly to stay competitive in the industry and showcase their commitment to professional development.
Who should become a wall covering installer?
If you have a passion for working with your hands and strong attention to detail, then becoming an upholsterer may be the perfect career for you. Wallcovering workers need the ability to perform practical tasks consistently combined with an eye for design to ensure everything looks and works as it should.
Becoming a wall covering installer is an attainable goal, and due to the small size of the industry, becoming well known in your trade path may be easier than in more common careers.
If you're interested in becoming a wallcovering installer, sign up for a free SkillHero account to access our tools, resources, and networking opportunities.
