Are there any tradespeople out there?

[BrizNiz]

I'm on maternity leave and I'm dreading going back to my office job. I can't stand the politics and that those who do well put up and shut up with awful bosses and 'play the game'.

Anyway...I'm thinking of training as a tiler. Has anyone here done anything similar?

I like the idea that its creative, you get to meet lots of people, working for myself and flexibility. I realise there aren't many female tilers out there so I'm also interested to find out other women's experiences of working in a trade and whether it's a daily battle to be taken seriously or not.

Any advice, good or bad would be welcome. Thanks!

My DH is a painter and decorator. There are increasing numbers of women going into the trades....tiling isn't particularly creative though...yes you've got to have a sharp eye and a careful hand but it's quite repetitive and can be hard work. You're often in unpleasant environments....say on a new build estate...tiling endless feet of white tiles.

But it pays better than your average office job and there is variety. I think tiling is a good choice as it isn't as hard work physically as painting and decorating or even plastering...plasterers get paid well but it's demanding on your arms and shoulders.

If I were you I would look at talking to some local tilers...on Facebook or similar. Ask for advice...ask how business is going so you can get a feel for whether you will get work.

Thanks - that's really helpful.

I’m not a tiler, but had to do some research when getting my bathroom done, this site might help with advice, etc?

www.tilersforums.com/