Building Finishes

Building Technology · Level 6  ·  3 Chapters

What this unit covers

In this unit, you will be able to confidently prepare, set, and finish both tile and terrazzo surfaces with precision and care, ensuring every detail meets professional standards and safety regulations. You’ll master the skills to handle tools and materials efficiently, follow design specifications accurately, and deliver beautiful, durable finishes that bring spaces to life. By the end, you’ll be ready to contribute your craftsmanship to real-world building projects with pride and professionalism.

Where this takes you

Building finishes, especially tiling, are essential skills in Kenya’s vibrant construction and renovation sectors. Mastering these skills opens doors to diverse employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, enabling you to contribute to the country’s growing infrastructure while earning a reliable income.

  • In the construction industry, from large-scale projects by companies like China Wu Yi and Laxmanbhai Construction, to smaller county government building projects, skilled tilers are in high demand to deliver quality finishes that meet the National Building Code 2024 standards.
  • The jua kali sector thrives on craftsmanship; many artisans run their own businesses fixing and renovating homes, offices, and commercial spaces, earning a steady income through tile installation and finishing.
  • In hospitality and real estate development (like the booming hotel industry in Mombasa and Nairobi), well-finished tiled surfaces are crucial for aesthetics and hygiene, creating opportunities for employment and contracts.
  • The matatu industry and local businesses often require durable and attractive tiled floors and walls in garages, offices, and waiting areas, providing additional niches for tile finishers.
  • Mastery of safety procedures and precision in tiling ensures your work meets Kenya’s regulatory standards, making you a trusted professional sought after by employers or clients.
  • With these skills, you can start your own tiling business, supplying services to homeowners, schools, churches, and commercial enterprises, thus becoming an entrepreneur and contributing to Kenya’s economic growth.

By mastering building finishes, you’re not just learning a trade—you’re building a future filled with opportunity, creativity, and the pride of shaping Kenya’s physical landscape. Keep honing your skills; your expertise will make a lasting impact!

Chapters

1
Carry out wall finishes
17 topics
✓ Notes Ready
2
Carry out floor finishes
19 topics
✓ Notes Ready
3
Installation of ceiling
21 topics
✓ Notes Ready

9 past papers for this unit →

Practise this unit

The practical 45 The assessment itself — tools, materials and the marks Step-by-step guide 45 PPE, each step, what good looks like, common mistakes

Revise this unit

Past papers & answers 9 Real CDACC papers for this unit, free to download Exam-style questions 42 Written to CDACC standard, with answers Test yourself 78 Multiple-choice, one at a time Practise questions 63 Quick recall — check you know the facts
3 more for this unit

Beyond the syllabus

Decision simulator 2 On site, what would you do? Workplace scenarios 40 Real site situations — what would you do? Turn this into income 24 Where this skill earns — what to charge, how to find clients