Tapers
What is a Tapers?
Tapers are professionals in the construction and finishing industry who specialize in applying and smoothing joint tape and compounds to seams between drywall panels. Their primary role involves preparing surfaces for painting or finishing by ensuring that the joints are seamlessly blended into the wall, creating a smooth and polished look. Tapers work closely with drywall installers, helping to achieve an even surface while preventing cracks and imperfections. They select the appropriate materials for taping, such as joint compounds and tapes, and use various tools, including knives and trowels, to apply these materials effectively. Additionally, tapers often engage in sanding and touch-up work after the initial application to ensure a flawless finish. Their expertise contributes significantly to the overall quality and appearance of interior spaces, making them an integral part of any construction or remodeling project.
Tasks
- Spread sealing compound between boards or panels or over cracks, holes, nail heads, or screw heads, using trowels, broadknives, or spatulas.
- Press paper tape over joints to embed tape into sealing compound and to seal joints.
- Apply additional coats to fill in holes and make surfaces smooth.
- Seal joints between plasterboard or other wallboard to prepare wall surfaces for painting or papering.
- Spread and smooth cementing material over tape, using trowels or floating machines to blend joints with wall surfaces.
Technology Skills
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Accounting software
- Applied Computer Systems JOBPOWER
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal
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Project management software
- Construction Software Center EasyEst
- DevWave Estimate Works
- On Center Quick Bid
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Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Microsoft Dynamics
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Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
Tools Used
- Putty knives
- Hand sprayers
- Tape guide
- Trowels
- Paint rollers
Knowledge
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Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Skills
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Extent Flexibility
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
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Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
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Multilimb Coordination
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Less than high school diploma
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
Work Activities
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Performing General Physical Activities
Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Detailed Work Activities
- Apply sealants or other protective coatings.
- Apply material to fill gaps in surfaces.
- Apply adhesives to construction materials.
- Smooth surfaces with abrasive materials or tools.
- Climb equipment or structures to access work areas.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$43870.0 - $103130.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.