Tapers: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

Tapers are also called finishers, because they prepare the drywall for covering by plaster, paint, and wallpaper. Tapers apply paper or fiberglass mesh tape to cover drywall seams.

In addition to performing new installations, many installers and tapers make repairs such as fixing damaged drywall and replacing ceiling tiles. The wall coverings applied to the finished drywall are installed by painters, plasterers, and paperhangers.

Education Required
There are no educational credential requirements for becoming a drywall and ceiling tile installer, or taper.
Training Required
Most drywall and ceiling tile installers, and tapers learn their trade on the job by helping more experienced workers and gradually being given more duties. They start by carrying materials and cleaning up and then learn to use the tools of the trade. They also learn to measure, cut, and install or apply materials. They may start out working on less visible areas like closets. The on-the-job training received typically lasts up to 12 months.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 1% (Little or no change)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Median pay: How much do Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers, and Tapers make?
$42,280 Annual Salary
$20.33 per hour

Careers for Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers, and Tapers

  • Acoustical carpenters
  • Acoustical ceiling installers
  • Ceiling tile installers
  • Drywall applicators
  • Drywall finishers
  • Drywall hangers
  • Drywall installers
  • Drywall sanders
  • Drywall strippers
  • Drywall tapers
  • Drywall workers
  • Drywallers
  • Finishers
  • Framers
  • Hangers
  • Sheet rock appliers
  • Sheet rock hangers
  • Sheet rock installers
  • Sheet rock tapers
  • Sheet rock workers
  • Wall tapers

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