Coving
Coving is a decorative molding or trim that's installed where walls meet the ceiling to create an attractive, finished look in a room. It's similar to crown molding but typically simpler and less ornate. Decorators and builders use coving to hide any imperfections in wall-ceiling joints and add a professional, polished appearance to rooms. This skill is commonly requested in job descriptions for decorators, painters, and interior finishing specialists. When someone mentions coving in their resume, they're referring to their ability to measure, cut, and install these decorative elements correctly.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Coving and decorative moldings in over 200 residential properties
Specialized in fitting Coving and Cornice work for period properties
Led teams in large-scale Coving installation projects for commercial spaces
Typical job title: "Coving Installers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Coving Installers
Professional Networks
Trade Organizations
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a large coving installation project with multiple rooms and different styles?
Expected Answer: A senior installer should discuss project planning, material estimation, team coordination, ensuring consistency across rooms, and solving complex corner and joint challenges.
Q: What considerations do you take when installing coving in a period property?
Expected Answer: Should explain matching historical styles, working with uneven surfaces, selecting appropriate materials, and preservation of existing features.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult corners and joints in coving installation?
Expected Answer: Should explain measuring angles correctly, cutting techniques for clean joints, and methods for dealing with uneven walls or ceilings.
Q: What different materials can be used for coving and when would you recommend each?
Expected Answer: Should discuss various materials like plaster, polystyrene, and PVC, explaining their benefits, costs, and suitable applications.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools are needed for coving installation?
Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like mitre box, saw, adhesive, measuring tape, and explain their basic uses.
Q: How do you prepare a room for coving installation?
Expected Answer: Should explain room preparation including wall cleaning, measuring, marking level lines, and basic safety considerations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic coving installation on straight walls
- Measuring and cutting simple joints
- Using basic hand tools
- Following safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex corner joints and angles
- Working with different coving materials
- Problem-solving uneven surfaces
- Basic project estimation
Senior (5+ years)
- Managing large installation projects
- Training junior installers
- Period property restoration work
- Complex decorative finish work
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of measuring angles for corners
- Unfamiliarity with different adhesive types
- Lack of basic tool knowledge
- No experience with safety procedures
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