Tile and Stone Setters

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (4%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 3 (12%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 21 (84%)

• Prepare cost and labor estimates, based on calculations of time and materials needed for project.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Determine and implement the best layout to achieve a desired pattern.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Measure and mark surfaces to be tiled, following blueprints.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Study blueprints and examine surface to be covered to determine amount of material needed.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Cut and shape tile to fit around obstacles and into odd spaces and corners, using hand and power cutting tools.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Lay and set mosaic tiles to create decorative wall, mural, and floor designs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Align and straighten tile using levels, squares, and straightedges.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Finish and dress the joints and wipe excess grout from between tiles, using damp sponge.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Cut, surface, polish, and install marble and granite or install pre-cast terrazzo, granite or marble units.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Mix, apply, and spread plaster, concrete, mortar, cement, mastic, glue or other adhesives to form a bed for the tiles, using brush, trowel and screed.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Apply mortar to tile back, position the tile, and press or tap with trowel handle to affix tile to base.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Level concrete and allow to dry.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Prepare surfaces for tiling by attaching lath or waterproof paper, or by applying a cement mortar coat to a metal screen.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Mix and apply mortar or cement to edges and ends of drain tiles to seal halves and joints.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Remove and replace cracked or damaged tile.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Apply a sealer to make grout stain- and water-resistant.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Remove any old tile, grout and adhesive using chisels and scrapers and clean the surface carefully.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Spread mastic or other adhesive base on roof deck to form base for promenade tile, using serrated spreader.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Cut tile backing to required size, using shears.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Install and anchor fixtures in designated positions, using hand tools.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Assist customers in selection of tile and grout.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Select and order tile and other items to be installed, such as bathroom accessories, walls, panels, and cabinets, according to specifications.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Measure and cut metal lath to size for walls and ceilings, using tin snips.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Build underbeds and install anchor bolts, wires, and brackets.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Brush glue onto manila paper on which design has been drawn and position tiles, finished side down, onto paper.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task