There are over 200 cuts in nine hours and it will test you mentally and physically.” The time management aspect of the job varied significantly from the typical time management employed on a job. For instance, Nardone said, that on a typical job, he estimates “the time to complete the job and [I] push myself to complete the job in a timely manner, but I am always trying to do the best job pos- sible for the homeowner no matter what it takes. “The test is a set amount of time to get it right and get it com- pleted,” he added. “It mentally tests you. Stay focused. Believe in yourself and get the job done.” Being in an atmosphere of ear- nest demonstration of a tile setter’s skills was inspiring to Nardone. “You are working around others taking the test,” he said. “It was great to see that others take as much pride in their work as I do. Like any job site, if you can work well with others, you’ll get the job completed faster.” Nardone, who plans to also pur- sue Advanced Certification for Tile Installers (ACT), recommends tak- ing the exam to expand setters’ businesses and further their per- sonal development and knowl- edge. “Though taking the test, you’ll make new contacts, friends, and learn more about the indus- try,” he said. “Those who don’t consider the exam should look more into the benefits of taking the test. It’s there to help you, your career, and the consumer.” Nardone emphasizes that the CTI credential “assures the cus- tomer that they are receiving a quality install the first time… I have spoken to customers that have used other companies to meet their deadline or their bud- get and less than a year later – sometimes a month later or upon completion of install – the tile installation starts failing with cracking grout, unbonded tile, shower pan leakage, excessive lippage, etc. Hiring a Certified Tile Installer assures the homeowner that the installer is up to date on industry standards and is qualified to set the materials needed.” EDUCATIONAL FEATURE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Certified TileInstaller WANTTOBETHEBEST? TheCertifiedTileInstaller (CTI)programistheonly third-partyassessmentofa tileinstallationprofessional’s skillandknowledgethatis recognizedbythetileindustry. Visitourwebsiteandputyourself abovethecompetition. GETCERTIFIED! 864-222-2131 info@ceramictilefoundation.org www.ceramictilefoundation.org 96 TileLetter | March 2018