COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the Total Quality Leadership in Wall & Floor Tiling Projects course. This training has been designed to equip you with the leadership skills, technical knowledge, and quality assurance strategies required to deliver high-standard tiling outcomes across commercial and residential construction sites.
Total quality in tiling refers to a comprehensive, end-to-end commitment to excellence—starting with clear objectives and continuing through to flawless execution and post-completion evaluation. This course begins by exploring the concept of total quality as it applies specifically to wall and floor tiling projects. It distinguishes quality leadership from basic quality control and highlights the importance of leading by example to ensure precision, durability, and visual appeal in tiling finishes.
Establishing clear quality objectives is the first step in aligning project outcomes with client expectations. This section explores how to define measurable targets for aspects such as tile alignment, joint consistency, and finish durability. It also addresses the need to ensure that objectives reflect contract specifications and industry codes, including Australian Standards for tiling work.
Quality assurance must be integrated into the project schedule—not treated as an afterthought. This section outlines how to plan for quality at each project stage, allocate time for inspections, and sequence work to avoid damage or rework. Participants will learn how a proactive approach to scheduling directly supports high-quality tiling outcomes.
Technical drawings and specifications provide the foundation for precision in tiling. This section explains how to interpret layout plans, identify datum points, and assess substrate readiness. Participants will also learn to confirm tile types, adhesive systems, and grout specifications to avoid costly mistakes or mismatches on site.
Quality leadership starts before the first tile is laid. This section focuses on conducting thorough pre-installation checks—including surface flatness, moisture content, product compatibility, and site cleanliness. It also covers how to verify that grid lines and set-out marks are correctly established to ensure alignment and efficiency.
High-quality outcomes depend on using high-quality materials. This section provides guidance on how to verify tile batch consistency, inspect adhesives and grouts for performance, and prevent damage during transport or storage. Emphasis is placed on supplier certifications and product selection aligned with the project’s environmental and aesthetic requirements.
Supervising workmanship requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of tiling technique. This section outlines how to monitor setting-out, alignment, adhesive coverage, and grouting to ensure consistent finish quality. Participants will explore strategies for reinforcing craftsmanship and maintaining pride in work across the tiling team.
Safe work practices are an essential part of quality delivery. This section explores how unsafe environments can compromise tile installation and cause material damage. It reinforces the importance of WHS compliance, PPE use, and safe manual handling as part of a quality-focused worksite culture.
Coordination with other trades is critical in avoiding damage and rework. This section examines how to align tiling activities with plumbing, electrical, and waterproofing works, and how to protect completed surfaces from follow-on trades. Clear sequencing and access planning are essential for maintaining tiling integrity throughout the project.
In-process inspections are essential to maintaining high standards. This section outlines how to conduct real-time quality checks during installation, monitor tile placement and spacing, and address issues as they arise. Participants will also learn how to document non-conformances and implement immediate corrective actions.
Documenting quality procedures ensures transparency and accountability. This section provides instruction on using checklists, sign-off sheets, and inspection records to verify that all stages of tiling meet project and regulatory expectations. These records form the basis for audits, client satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
Training and mentoring are key to embedding quality expectations within the team. This section explores how to use toolbox talks, on-the-job demonstrations, and team feedback sessions to raise the standard of workmanship. Participants will learn to encourage peer learning and build a team culture focused on ongoing improvement.
Client expectations regarding tiling finishes are often high and specific. This section examines how to clarify finish standards with clients, manage variation requests, and conduct final walkthroughs supported by documented quality checks. Clear communication helps prevent disputes and reinforces professional trust.
Defects must be addressed quickly and professionally. This section explains how to identify root causes of quality failures, initiate repairs, and revise procedures to avoid recurrence. It also covers how to maintain documentation of corrective actions as part of project close-out and future training.
The final inspection confirms whether the tiling work meets the agreed standards. This section outlines how to verify plan compliance, surface condition, alignment, and finish appearance before sign-off. Coordination with the builder or client ensures that the handover reflects the expected level of quality.
Reviewing outcomes helps to close the quality loop. This section provides tools for comparing project results to initial objectives, capturing lessons learned, and collecting team feedback. These reviews help inform future estimates, schedules, and technical planning across similar tiling projects.
Innovation is essential to continuous quality improvement. This section discusses how to encourage feedback from workers, experiment with new techniques or materials, and remain up to date with evolving tiling standards and technologies. Quality leadership is dynamic and must adapt to changing industry needs.
Finally, total quality leadership must be embedded into daily culture. This section explores how to recognise and reward high-quality work, assign clear leadership responsibilities to team members, and integrate quality values into site practices. A culture of ownership, pride, and continuous improvement ensures sustained excellence in wall and floor tiling.
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge, leadership tools, and practical strategies required to lead tiling projects that consistently meet or exceed industry quality benchmarks, while fostering a workplace culture that values and delivers excellence.
Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:
1. Introduction to Total Quality Leadership in Tiling Projects
- Understanding the concept of total quality in construction
- Importance of leadership in achieving consistent project quality
- Role of quality-focused leadership in wall and floor tiling
2. Establishing Quality Objectives for Tiling Work
- Setting measurable targets for finish, durability, and alignment
- Aligning objectives with client expectations and specifications
- Ensuring compliance with industry standards and codes
3. Planning for Quality in Tiling Project Delivery
- Incorporating quality assurance into the project schedule
- Allocating adequate time and resources for inspection
- Sequencing activities to reduce rework and damage
4. Reviewing Technical Drawings and Tiling Specifications
- Interpreting architectural details and tile layouts
- Identifying tolerances, set-out points, and substrate requirements
- Confirming tile types, adhesives, and grouting systems
5. Leading Pre-Installation Quality Checks
- Inspecting surfaces for flatness, moisture, and cleanliness
- Verifying compatibility of products and tools
- Ensuring layout grids and datum points are correctly marked
6. Selecting and Managing High-Quality Materials
- Verifying tile batches, shade variation, and supplier certifications
- Checking adhesive shelf life, consistency, and bonding strength
- Preventing material damage during handling and storage
7. Supervising Skilled and Consistent Workmanship
- Monitoring setting-out, alignment, and spacing
- Ensuring correct application of adhesives and grout
- Encouraging attention to detail and precision at all stages
8. Enforcing WHS Standards as a Quality Factor
- Preventing quality compromise due to unsafe practices
- Reinforcing PPE use and manual handling procedures
- Ensuring clear, safe work areas reduce tile breakage or misplacement
9. Coordinating With Other Trades to Avoid Rework
- Ensuring tiling sequences align with plumbing and electrical works
- Clarifying access, sequencing, and protection requirements
- Preventing tile surface damage by following site protocols
10. Conducting In-Process Quality Inspections
- Checking layout accuracy and tile placement as work progresses
- Addressing inconsistencies in real-time
- Documenting defects and corrective actions
11. Documenting Quality Control Procedures
- Using checklists and sign-off sheets for each stage
- Recording test results and visual inspections
- Keeping records aligned with project and regulatory requirements
12. Leading Team Training in Quality Expectations
- Conducting toolbox talks focused on quality standards
- Mentoring workers on correct installation techniques
- Reinforcing continuous improvement through feedback
13. Managing Customer Expectations and Finish Standards
- Clarifying agreed finish levels, tile joints, and surface tolerances
- Managing variation requests professionally
- Ensuring client walkthroughs are supported by documented quality checks
14. Addressing Defects and Non-Conformances Promptly
- Identifying the root causes of quality failures
- Replacing or repairing damaged or defective work
- Preventing recurrence through improved process control
15. Final Inspection and Sign-Off Procedures
- Verifying compliance with plans and specifications
- Checking aesthetics, alignment, and surface condition
- Coordinating with project manager for handover
16. Reviewing Project Quality Outcomes
- Comparing actual results against initial objectives
- Debriefing with team to capture lessons learned
- Recording key metrics for future projects
17. Continuous Improvement and Innovation in Tiling Quality
- Encouraging worker suggestions for process improvements
- Trialling new tools, adhesives, or application methods
- Reviewing updates to standards, technologies, and industry practices
18. Embedding a Culture of Quality Leadership in Tiling Teams
- Recognising and rewarding quality achievements
- Assigning team members with quality leadership responsibilities
- Making quality part of daily work practices and site culture
COURSE DURATION:
The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.
COURSE DELIVERY:
Purchase and download course content.
ASSESSMENT:
A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.
CERTIFICATION:
Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.