Of the many trade job opportunities, becoming a drywall finisher is one you might consider. Also known as a drywall taper, you will be an instrumental part of a team who completes wall and ceiling structures.
Questions About Becoming a Drywall Finisher
1. What does a drywall finisher do?
Drywall finishers are skilled craftspeople who take the reins after drywaller installers have done their work. You will prepare the drywall for covering by paint or any other wall application. First, you apply paper or fibreglass mesh tape to the wall to cover the drywall seams. Next, you smooth out the tape and apply a finishing compound.
This is a complex process as you will be mixing compounds, installing beads to protect corners, filling joints and imperfections, applying the compounds, and sanding surfaces to achieve the desired finish. You will also be adept at using various power tools as you may be assisting the drywall installer in lifting drywall pieces to wall and ceiling areas.
Tapers also repair damaged drywall. Once they have done their work, painters or plasterers need to apply the wall coverings.
2. What skills do you need to become a drywall finisher?
You need to be relatively fit and agile as you will be working on scaffolding or even power elevated platforms. You enjoy working with your hands and have a keen eye for detail. You like the diversity of working in different environments as every office building or home typically requires drywall and therefore, the specialty skills of a drywall finisher. You also will need to develop a level of comfort working with heavy equipment and, at times, with hazardous material. Familiarity with construction software can also help you with updating the status of projects on which you are working.
3. How do I start a career as a drywall finisher?
Having a high school education is preferred for any apprenticeship program. However, the minimum entry for apprenticeship is Grade 10. You will need to complete 5,400 hours in an apprenticeship program and then write a Red Seal exam at the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities. You will also need to provide a Permanent Resident Card, Canadian Birth Certificate, or a valid Canadian Passport.
4. What is the job outlook for a drywall finisher?
The construction industry is booming. As drywall finishers can work in both commercial and residential settings, there are many job opportunities. The skilled trade shortage also puts drywall finishers in demand given it is a learned specialty trade.
Start Your Career as a Drywall Finisher
Starting a career as a drywall finisher can be a smart choice. Having a trade will benefit you for a lifetime and your job prospects are high. By joining a trade union, you’ll get to train, develop your skills, earn competitive wages, and gain job security. Find out more by contacting us today.
