Job Role - Taper / Jointer

Tapers/Jointers are skilled tradespeople who are responsible for preparing and finishing drywall surfaces before painting or wallpapering. They use specialized tools to create smooth, seamless joints between drywall sheets and to apply tape and joint compound to cover and smooth out the seams. Tapers/Jointers work in both residential and commercial construction, and are responsible for ensuring that the walls are smooth, straight and ready for final finish.

What is a Taper / Jointer?

A Taper/Jointer is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in preparing and finishing drywall surfaces before painting or wallpapering. They use specialized tools to create smooth, seamless joints between drywall sheets and to apply tape and joint compound to cover and smooth out the seams. Tapers/Jointers work in both residential and commercial construction, and are responsible for ensuring that the walls are smooth, straight and ready for final finish.

Who does a Taper / Jointer work with?

Tapers/Jointers typically work with other members of the construction team, such as General Builders, Carpenters, and other tradespeople. They may also interact with clients or customers to discuss the scope of the project and to ensure that their needs and expectations are being met.

What does a Taper / Jointer do?

The job of a taper/jointer involves operating and utilizing a tool called a taper/jointer. As a taper/jointer, your primary responsibility is to create precise edges on boards and facilitate their joining.

One of the main tasks as a taper/jointer is to perform edge jointing. This involves feeding boards through the taper/jointer while adjusting the fence and operating the rotating cutter head. By doing so, you ensure that the edges of the boards are perfectly flat and at the same height, enabling seamless and secure joints when the boards are joined together.

As a taper/jointer, expertise and the use of the taper/jointer tool are crucial in achieving precise dimensions, seamless joins, and desired shapes in projects. By employing their knowledge of techniques and effectively operating the taper/jointer, they contribute to the production of high-quality houses.

So, What does a Taper / Jointer do daily?

A Taper / Jointer's main role may include:

• Reading and interpreting blueprints and specifications
• Measuring and cutting drywall sheets
• Assembling and positioning drywall
• Taping and finishing drywall joints with joint compound

In a Taper / Jointer job description, it will discuss the role and any further requirements to get the job, see below.

Taper / Jointer Job Description

An example of a job description for a Taper / Jointer.

Job Role:

• Reading and interpreting blueprints and specifications
• Measuring and cutting drywall sheets
• Assembling and positioning drywall
• Taping and finishing drywall joints with joint compound
• Sanding and smoothing the walls
• Following safety procedures and regulations

Requirements:

• NVQ or equivalent may be required.
• On-the-job training may be provided, but some employers may prefer candidates with experience in drywall installation or a related field.
• A valid driver's license may be required.

Avg Salary:

£42,951

Low: £37,440

High: £51,870

To be a successful Taper/Jointer, you should have good attention to detail, be able to work independently, and have good problem-solving skills. You should also have knowledge of drywall installation techniques, as well as experience with tools and equipment used in the trade. Additionally, it's important to be familiar with industry-specific regulations and safety guidelines.

Tapers/Jointers play an important role in ensuring that dry wall surfaces are smooth and ready for final finish. They are responsible for ensuring that the walls are straight, smooth and ready for paint or wallpapering. They work on both residential and commercial construction projects and are a vital part of the construction team. If you have the necessary skills and are interested in a career in construction, this can be a rewarding and challenging profession. With the right training and experience, Tapers/Jointers can advance to positions such as supervisor or manager and can also move on to other related fields like construction management, or general contracting.