COURSE OVERVIEW:

Welcome to the Quality Assurance & Control in Internal & External Tiling course. This program has been designed to equip you with the practical tools, industry standards, and structured techniques required to deliver consistently high-quality tiling outcomes across residential, commercial, and external environments.

Quality assurance in tiling is about more than visual appeal—it safeguards performance, durability, and long-term client satisfaction. This course begins by defining the concepts of quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) within the context of tiling projects. It explores the importance of meeting internal and external quality benchmarks and outlines how poor workmanship can lead to failures in safety, waterproofing, and appearance—resulting in costly rectifications and reputational harm.

Compliance with formal quality standards is central to professional tiling. This section introduces key references, including AS 3958.1 for ceramic tiling, the National Construction Code (NCC), and contract-specific requirements. You will learn how these standards set expectations for tolerances, finishes, and installation methods, and how to interpret them for use on site.

Planning for quality begins before the first tile is laid. This section covers how to establish quality benchmarks, identify inspection points throughout the project, and align QA processes with broader construction schedules. Clear planning reduces rework and ensures that all parties understand the required standard from the outset.

Specifications and drawings form the foundation of quality execution. This section explores how to review tile layout patterns, edge details, substrate requirements, and adhesive compatibility. You will also learn to confirm site dimensions and tolerances before commencing work to avoid issues later in the installation process.

Site readiness is a critical factor in achieving high-quality outcomes. This section outlines how to assess substrate flatness, fall direction, and moisture conditions. It also discusses how to record existing conditions, identify access constraints, and ensure environmental factors will not interfere with workmanship or curing.

Materials must be verified before installation begins. This section explains how to confirm batch consistency, manufacturer compliance, and storage conditions for tiles, adhesives, and grouts. It also covers how to identify and reject damaged or defective materials prior to use to avoid defects in the finished product.

Surface preparation is the foundation of performance. This section guides you through best practices for cleaning, levelling, and priming substrates, installing movement joints and waterproofing where required, and ensuring that surfaces are fully compatible with the tiling system being used.

Set-out accuracy impacts the visual and structural outcome of the work. This section focuses on establishing datum lines, layout grids, and centre references for walls and floors. You will learn to use dry lays and visualisation techniques to ensure cuts are balanced, symmetry is achieved, and layout errors are avoided.

Tiling application must be monitored in real time. This section explores how to check adhesive coverage, bedding depth, and application speed. You will also learn to assess tile alignment, grout spacing, and environmental conditions to ensure the work meets specification without rushed or inconsistent finishes.

Grouting and finishing must complement the quality of the tiling base. This section outlines how to select and mix grout properly, avoid discolouration or pinholes, and clean excess residue from tile surfaces. Attention is given to achieving full grout joints and ensuring uniform texture and colour.

External tiling introduces additional risks. This section explains how to meet slip resistance and drainage requirements, prevent efflorescence, and use weather-compatible materials. You will also learn how curing time, temperature, and waterproofing detailing affect performance in external conditions.

Site leadership plays a key role in quality outcomes. This section focuses on how to guide tiling crews and apprentices by setting clear expectations, providing on-the-job coaching, and conducting regular walkthroughs to reinforce quality standards during all stages of the project.

Ongoing checks are essential for maintaining consistency. This section introduces how to perform staged inspections at key points—such as substrate prep, initial layout, partial completion, and before grouting—using structured checklists and documentation. You will learn how to flag and rectify issues early.

The final inspection validates all previous efforts. This section outlines how to assess final alignment, levels, grout lines, and overall cleanliness. It includes how to cross-check compliance with design drawings, confirm client satisfaction, and prepare sign-off documentation for handover.

Defect response must be timely and thorough. This section explores how to identify the root causes of quality issues, carry out repairs with minimal disruption, and adjust processes or team instructions to prevent repeat occurrences on future projects.

Documentation provides traceability and assurance. This section covers how to keep inspection records, completed checklists, batch details, and photographic evidence. You will also learn how to retain manufacturer documentation and warranties to support long-term asset maintenance and compliance reviews.

Reviewing post-project performance supports continuous improvement. This section focuses on how to debrief with project teams, analyse defect rates, and document lessons learned. Data and experience from completed projects are used to refine processes and guide future training.

A quality culture begins with pride in workmanship. This section explores how to promote a shared commitment to quality within tiling teams, recognise individuals who exceed expectations, and integrate quality checks and conversations into every stage of job planning and execution.

By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the quality systems, technical insight, and practical strategies required to manage and deliver tiling work that consistently meets or exceeds Australian standards—both internally and externally.

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 Quality Assurance in Tiling Projects

• Defining quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) in tiling
• Importance of quality outcomes in both internal and external applications
• Impacts of poor workmanship on safety, aesthetics, and cost

2. Understanding Quality Standards and Compliance

• Relevant Australian Standards
• Project specifications and contractual obligations
• National Construction Code (NCC) and tolerances

3. Planning for Quality in Tiling Installations

• Setting clear quality benchmarks before work begins
• Coordinating QA processes with project timelines
• Identifying quality checkpoints throughout the job

4. Reviewing Project Specifications and Drawings

• Understanding layout, pattern, and grout line requirements
• Verifying materials, adhesive types, and substrate details
• Checking dimensions and levels for compliance

5. Conducting Pre-Installation Site Assessments

• Verifying surface flatness, fall, and substrate readiness
• Identifying environmental or access limitations
• Recording initial conditions for reference

6. Verifying Tiling Materials and Adhesives

• Checking for product certifications and batch consistency
• Ensuring materials are stored as per manufacturer guidelines
• Identifying and rejecting damaged or defective tiles

7. Preparing Surfaces for High-Quality Results

• Cleaning, levelling, and priming substrates
• Installing movement joints and waterproofing as required
• Verifying surface compatibility with selected tile system

8. Ensuring Accurate Set-Out and Layout Control

• Establishing datum lines and layout grids
• Planning for cuts, symmetry, and centre lines
• Avoiding layout errors through pre-checks and dry lays

9. Monitoring Tiling Application Techniques

• Verifying adhesive coverage and bedding techniques
• Checking tile alignment, spacing, and joint consistency
• Controlling application rate and environmental conditions

10. Inspecting Grouting and Finishing Work

• Ensuring correct grout selection and mixing
• Cleaning excess grout and polishing surfaces properly
• Inspecting joints for fullness, uniformity, and bonding

11. Managing External Tiling Quality Requirements

• Ensuring slip resistance and drainage compliance
• Preventing efflorescence and movement damage
• Using weather-compatible materials and curing methods

12. Supervising Tiling Crews and Apprentices

• Providing clear instructions on quality expectations
• Conducting on-the-job quality coaching
• Monitoring compliance through regular walkthroughs

13. Conducting In-Progress Quality Checks

• Reviewing completed sections before continuation
• Using quality checklists for each stage
• Documenting issues and corrective actions

14. Final Quality Inspection and Sign-Off

• Confirming finish levels, alignment, and cleanliness
• Reviewing compliance with drawings and specifications
• Obtaining client or principal contractor approval

15. Addressing Defects and Rework Promptly

• Identifying root causes of quality failures
• Planning and executing corrective work efficiently
• Preventing recurrence through process improvements

16. Documenting Quality Assurance Processes

• Keeping inspection records, checklists, and sign-offs
• Logging photos of key stages and completed works
• Retaining manufacturer documentation and warranties

17. Evaluating Quality Performance Post-Project

• Reviewing QA outcomes with the project team
• Analysing defect data and lessons learned
• Reporting outcomes for business improvement

18. Embedding a Culture of Quality in Tiling Operations

• Promoting pride in workmanship across all tilers
• Recognising high-performance teams and individuals
• Integrating quality into all stages of project planning

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”.