The Decorator –Autumn 2024 by Catherine Saint Publicity

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THEDECORATOR

Dear Members,

As summer draws to a close, and autumn is now upon us, it’s a good time to reflect on the year, and start planning for the months ahead. It would be interesting to hear from some of you as to what business plans you have in mind for the ensuing year. Please do drop me a line and share your thoughts. Any support in that area we can help with, we’ll only be too pleased to do so.

As we now have our new government firmly in post, it remains to be seen as to whether the objectives they set out in their manifesto will come to fruition over the next months and years. Whether that be the wealth creation for working people, the promise of an extra 300,000 homes per year, or the tightening of border security controls, we will await with bated breath to see the outcomes.

Speaking to Members around the country, the level of work available does seem to vary from county to county, but generally this year, work output and contract availability seems to have held up well.

This year our AGM will once again be online. We have three available vacancies for positions on the PDA Management Board. There is one vacancy representing our categories 1, 2, 3 & 4, and two vacancies for categories 5 & 6. I look forward to receiving your nominations by Friday 25 October, direct to my email address neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk – It’s your Association, it belongs to the Members, so please do put yourself forward to help us shape, structure and plan its future.

We’ve had a busy year to date, this being our 130th anniversary year. All our events and apprentice competitions have been well supported by Members around the country. The apprentice competitions have once again been an excellent showcase of young talent, proving that we still have a great set of upcoming professional painters and decorators out there. At the end of November, Myself and our events manager Yvonne, are taking eight apprentices out to Slovenia to take part in a Humanitarian repaint of a children’s school. We will be joining a large group of European painters and apprentices to take part in this worthy cause. Full details of the visit will feature in the next edition of the magazine.

The 2025 Premier Trophy Awards and Apprentice of the Year competitions are now open, you can download entry forms online at https://tinyurl.com/pda-pta – Please note the closing deadline dates for both. Do think about submitting an entry into one or more of the seven different categories for next year’s awards!

Just prior to publication we held our networking event at the Hilton Hotel, Liverpool. It was a pleasure to host the Apprentice Wallpaper Hanger of the Year Awards. Five outstanding apprentices picked up the junior and senior awards along with my CEO Achievement & Recognition Award, full details are on page 18. It’s aways good to see our Members, Associate Partners and guests having such a great weekend. A huge thanks goes to Brewers Decorator Centres for being the sole sponsor this year, your support is very much appreciated. Thanks to our resident international live band, Daniel Sings & Friends, along with this year’s speciality act, award winning magician, Andrew Dean. He amazed everyone with his close-up table magic and illusions.

Painting & Decorating Association

The PDA Team and I hope to see some of you on stand 96 at the National Painting and Decorating Show at the CBS Arena next month. Please do come along and say hello. Until the next time, stay safe out there, and dare I say it, Christmas is just around the corner!

Neil Ogilvie Chief Executive

neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

32 Coton Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5TW

Telephone: 024 7635 3776

e-mail: info@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

web: www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

Chief Executive Officer

Neil Ogilvie

neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

The Decorator is published by Catherine Saint Publicity on behalf of the Painting & Decorating Association

PDA Editorial

Neil Ogilvie

Telephone: 07864 300 688

e-mail: neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

Advertising and Editorial

Catherine Saint Publicity

Telephone: 07941 590 183

e-mail: catherine@the-decorator.co.uk

Artworking and Design empathicVisions

Telephone: 07789 725 074

e-mail: info@empathicvisions.co.uk

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those held by the Association. Editorial items in this publication and the statements and opinions expressed thereon are published on the understanding that the author of the contribution is solely responsible for the opinions so expressed. Although every care is taken with advertising, no responsibility can be accepted by the published for their products, services and other matters advertised. The publisher will not be liable for any loss or damage consequential or otherwise occasioned by error, late publication or the failure of an advertisement to appear in any cause whatsoever.

takeNOTICE

The latest news and updates about the PDA and wider issues across our industry. If you have something to contrubite email info@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

PAINTERS WIN PRIZES

Fancy winning a Mirka Deros Electric Orbital Sander?

As proud Gold Sponsors of the Show, the PDA is pulling out all the stops. We have some amazing prizes up for grabs at this year's National Painting and Decorating Show in November. Join our Chief Executive, Neil, and the PDA team on Stand 96 for your shot at winning!

STAY UP TO DATE WITH FIRE RETARDANT PAINTS

The final report from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry chronicles failures in the construction industry, the council, regulators and central government.

The issue of fire safety may not seem pressing within the painting and decorating sector, however, paint has become an integral part of any fire risk assessment. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in England & Wales outlines the potential hazard of flame spread on painted surfaces. While fire retardant products might not be essential for every project, it’s crucial to stay informed about fire safety requirements and understand when and where these materials should be applied. Some useful links can be found online at https://tinyurl.com/PDAFireSafety

PDA & APPRENTICES HEAD TO SLOVENIA FOR CHARITY PAINT

CEO Neil Ogilvie will be donning his paint overalls when he takes part in a Charity Paint in November after an invite from the Slovenian Paint Association Neil will be taking a group of apprentices from the UK to Slovenia to join up with students and apprentices from across Europe to take part in a Charity Painting Project. The project teams will be supplied with all the equipment to repaint the Elementary School in Dol pri Ljubljana on Friday 29 November. It's a mammoth task and will require hard work from all taking part. Good luck to all involved and we will be featuring the work in full in the next edition.

AGM 2024

PDA Annual General Meeting to take place online again this year!

15 NOVEMBER 2024

After being forced to go virtual in previous years, it has proved to be a much better way to give the opportunity for Members to participate!

All Members will be sent an e-mail containing the AGM information. You will be able to download supporting documents and there will be an opportunity to feedback any questions or queries.

The following items will be covered:-

1. Financial Report

2. Subscription recommendation

3. Current Management Board

4. Election of Management Board Officers

5. Management Board Chair

6. Appointment of Accountants for the ensuing year 2025

7. Appointment of Trustees for the ensuing year 2025

8. PDA Overview – Chief Executive Officer, Neil Ogilvie

9. Any other (relevant) Business

Members wishing to raise Items for discussion should notify PDA Head Office at least seven days in advance of the Annual General Meeting. Un-notified proposals should be framed as a recommendation to the Management Board for discussion at its next meeting on 11 December 2024.

Point four of the meeting will be to elect Members to the Management Board, of which there is one vacancy to represent categories 1, 2, 3 and 4, plus two vacancies to represent categories 5 & 6.

If you want to put yourself forward, nominations must be made to neil@paintingdecorationassociation.co.uk by 25 October 2024.

After voting online the successful candidates will be notified and the details will be sent out as part of the AGM. We urge all Members to take part in the voting process.

Please make sure that we have an up to date e-mail address for you, and keep an eye on our social media channels for further notifications.

Apprentices Abi Johnson and Lewis Metcalf, joined Neil on his last visit in 2019.

Welcome TO THE ASSOCIATION...

OAKRIDGE RECRUITMENT HAS an outstanding track record in the supply of temporary contract decorators across the South West of England, with an excellent reputation for consistently providing specialist labour hire services to the decorating industry.

For more than 20 years, they have worked successfully with a wide range of leading construction clients to supply professional, temporary contract decorators for all types of projects, from small refurbishments to high volume, high-profile residential developments across the region.

Oakridge take pride in their commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous service to clients. They hold CHAS and SMAS accreditations and all their decorators come with professional indemnity and public liability insurances.

Highly regarded throughout the construction sector for consistently supplying the very best candidates for proiects, Oakridge go the extra mile, getting to know your business - the culture, challenges, and future project pipeline. This allows them to provide a consultative service, ensuring the best possible delivery at all times.

As a family business, they know firsthand the importance of relationships in making a project a success, and it's this honesty, passion and professionalism that keeps clients returning.

So if you’re looking for a thriving recruitment agency with a reputation for excellence to support your next project, get in touch on 01225 941 063 to see how Oakridge can help.

TRN ARE ONE of the leading independent training providers of construction training for school leavers, young people and adults in the North East and across England. They provide pre-employment, Skills Bootcamps, apprenticeships, and education and training programmes in priority construction disciplines including Painting and Decorating, Carpentry and Joinery and Groundworks.

TRN currently offer support to employers in the North East via two Painting and Decorating Skills Bootcamps, supporting unemployed individuals into work. This is an intensive training course where they equip motivated unemployed individuals with the technical Painting and Decorating skills that enable them to access in-demand jobs.

This includes preparing surfaces for decoration, applying paint systems by brush and roller, specialist equipment employer training such as HVLP paint spraying.

TRN are looking for employers to offer these individuals an interview and potential job at the end of it.

Why hire from the Skills Bootcamp?

• Qualified Candidates: Learners have received hands-on, practical training tailored to industry needs.

• Motivated Talent: Our graduates are eager and prepared to make a meaningful impact.

• Quick Recruitment: Access a pool of job-ready professionals to fill your vacancies promptly.

TRN also have funding to deliver accelerated on-the-job training routes for your existing staff to gain their Level 2 NVQ in Decorative Finishing and Industrial Painting Occupations. If you are interested in any of the above contact Matt, Employer Engagement Manager, at matt.luetchford@trainltd.org or 07403 038827

ADVICE for our Members

SOLVING DISPUTES

IT’S AN UNFORTUNATE reality that no matter how hard you try, from time to time, it’s likely that you will end up in a dispute with a customer. Having said that, there are various straightforward steps you can take to try to minimise this risk, both before, during and after the job.

Before you agree to do work for any customer, you should at the very least carry out these three steps:

1. Identify your customer

Before you enter into any contract with anyone make sure you know your customer as well as you can by carrying out appropriate due diligence checks on them, for example, doing credit checks, obtaining references etc. You need to know if there are any red flags already in place that might prevent you from getting paid, for example, a poor credit rating. Don’t forget, either, to identify their legal status (e.g. sole trader, limited company etc.) as you’ll need to know this should a dispute develop.

2. Spec the job

Find out as much about the job you’re going to do as possible e.g. what’s involved, what is and isn’t included, how long will it take, when and how are they going to pay, is the job complex and/or lengthy?

3. Quotes, estimates and T&Cs

Before starting work, send out a written quote or estimate and have a contract drawn up which sets out clearly what you’ve agreed to do, when and how you’ll be paid (for example will you take a deposit, will there be staged payments?), how long the job is expected to last, and what happens if payment is late or not made at all. Make sure you attach your contract terms to the quote. You might want to ask for a deposit and staged payments, and state that you have the right to suspend your services if a payment is missed. PDA Members have access to precedent terms and conditions which they can use, see the Members Hub on the website.

Once the job is underway, we recommend you:

1. Communicate

Be open and easy to contact. Where appropriate, check any materials you are using before you go ahead, as it can happen that, for example, incorrect or the wrong colour paint is used, and it is only noticed once the job has been completed and the customer inspects.

2. Get it in writing

Where possible, get any changes in the job spec and the overall price agreed in writing. Where this is not done, it can lead to disputes over what was or was not included in the original contract, and of course, ultimately, lead to a dispute over the final price.

3. Customer satisfaction notes

To access the Law Hub where PDA Members will find additional practical DIY templates and guidance around topics such as employment and health and safety law, get a token code from the PDA office and sign up for free on www.markellaw.co.uk/registration

As your job comes to an end, but before you send out your invoice, ask your customer to inspect your work and sign a satisfaction note (available in the Useful Downloads section of the Members Resources on the PDA website). This way, you’ll be giving your customer less opportunity to refuse to pay your invoice promptly, so reducing the chance of any dispute. It should also avoid you ending up with a long snagging list after you leave the job, resulting in wasted time going back and forth to the job to rectify issues.

Thereafter, if it comes to it, a court should conclude from the note that the customer was satisfied at the time when the note was signed. If the matter comes to court, the customer will have an uphill battle to prove this was not the case because their signature clearly indicates otherwise. The note can also cover work ordered by the customer after the original quote or estimate. The note gives you the opportunity to formally record the additional work which, after signature by the customer, effectively gives you the written authority to present your invoice for payment.

You should be aware that whilst the satisfaction note is helpful, it is ultimately merely a piece of evidence and is not conclusive. It doesn’t prevent the customer from complaining subsequently if there proves to be a problem with the work or materials that becomes apparent sometime after. Whether your customer is a consumer (an individual acting in a personal capacity outside of a business) or a business, they will have statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Sale of Goods Act 1979 (as amended) and the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982, unless your contract says otherwise. All this legislation implies a term into any contract that your work needs to be carried out with reasonable care and skill and any products used must be of satisfactory quality and

From time-to-time despite your best efforts, and doing all of the above, disputes can still arise. You will be expected to do your best to resolve any customer complaints before pursuing a County Court claim. If you fail to do this, you are leaving yourself open to your customer defending themselves and arguing they should not have to pay because of the allegedly defective work.

There could also be a counterclaim, a classic example of this is where you sue a customer for an unpaid invoice for your work, and they not only defend themselves but sue you back for losses they say they suffered, be that damage to their property or additional costs of getting the job completed by someone else.

You should always consider negotiating, listening and talking to someone you’re in dispute with. Don’t rule out agreeing to a longer time to pay, paying in instalments or agreeing to a price reduction, particularly if there are issues. If you find yourself in this position, always consider:

• Why should there be a deduction? What evidence have the other side provided, and how strong is it?

• How much are they wishing to deduct? Does this accurately reflect the loss/damage suffered?

• If they want more time to pay, how long? How many instalments and of how much? Have they provided any evidence or proof that they can’t pay?

• How much time, effort and expense will be involved to take them to court to collect the full amount?

All negotiations should be on a ‘Without Prejudice save as to costs’ (WP) basis. Using the term WP on any correspondence or in a text/email exchange allows you to negotiate without prejudicing your overall legal position. Courts have a wide discretion to order one party to pay the other side’s costs, and generally the losing party ends up paying the winner’s costs, except in the small claims court where generally costs awards are rare. If you’ve marked your negotiations WP, the court can look at the reasonableness of your offer and take this into consideration, so ultimately it means the parties are obliged to consider reasonable offers to settle. When negotiating, you should also generally state that your offer is without any admission of liability, is a gesture of goodwill, and is made in full and final settlement of all costs and claims relating to the dispute. When making an offer, put a time limit on it for both acceptance and payment and ask how payment is to be made. Disputes can be settled right up until the last minute before a final court hearing, so keep channels of communication open at all times.

LABOUR’S ‘PLAN TO MAKE WORK PAY’

FIVE CHANGES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

THE ELECTION OF a new Labour government is set to bring huge changes to workers’ rights in the UK. Labour have published their Plan to Make Work Pay – A New Deal for Working People, detailing 30 proposed changes they’ve committed to introducing in their first 100 days in power.

At least nine of those changes have been confirmed in a series of Employment Bills announced in the King’s Speech in July, meaning we’re likely to see new legislation come into force extremely quickly as they can be introduced through Statutory Codes, meaning business owners need to be aware and prepared.

There are a few points in the plan that could have a big impact on businesses across every sector, including painting and decorating, and the scale and speed of the change means you’ll need to be prepared to review and amend your employment contracts and HR policies so you

Citation – by your side

don’t fall foul of these changes. The Employment Law experts at Citation have taken a look at five key changes:

1. Day-one rights:unfair dismissal rights

The Labour government will remove the service requirement, making the right to claim unfair dismissal a day-one right, which employees have to currently wait two years to earn.

2. The Fair Work Agency: a single enforcement body Labour will introduce a new single enforcement body, likely called the Fair Work Agency, which will bring all labour market enforcement within one organisation and will include union and TUC representation.

3. Zero-hours contracts: an end to one-sided flexibility

Labour have committed to ensuring all jobs provide a baseline level of security and predictability and will ban

There’s a lot of change in store this year – so now’s the right time to make sure you’re keeping up with it. As a PDA Associate Member, we’re a trusted provider in the industry – so you can have faith that we know how to help you manage the challenges unique to your business. Citation has your back in times like these, with 24/7 guaranteed advice to protect your business from tribunal claims, as well as all your contracts, policies, and documentation updated for you, training and e-learning for your people, and exclusive resources, webinars, and guidance. That’s why their clients are 16 times less likely to face an employment tribunal claim than the national average.

Check out the full Citation guide to Labour’s employment law changes, or for more support on all things HR and Employment Law just give us a call on 0345 844 1111 and quote ‘PDA’ to access preferential rates.

‘exploitative zero-hours contract’. They’ll also introduce new measures to make sure all workers get reasonable notice of changes to shifts or working hours.

4. Reforming employment status

Labour is proposing a move to a single status of worker which differentiates between workers and the genuinely self-employed. The government also plan to raise worker awareness on employment status and their rights.

5. Pay reforms:

National Minimum Wage and Statutory Sick Pay

The current age bands for National Minimum Wage will be removed, and the lower earnings limit on SSP will be removed to make it available to all workers, as well as removing the current three-day waiting period, so it will be payable from the first day of sickness absence.

Want to know more about the rest of the proposed changes?

Download the full guide using the QR code, covering 30+ proposals set out by the new government.

HMRC KICKSTARTS CIS CAMPAIGN

HMRC HAVE STARTED to issue ‘one to many’ letters to Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) contractors where their records indicate that the contractor may not have applied the correct deductions.

The letter prompts the contractor to verify the CIS tax status of their subcontractors to ensure that they have used the correct CIS deductions rate when calculating the deductions to withhold. Contractors are required to check their records within 45 days of receipt of the letter. Following this 45-day period, a compliance check may be started whereby any errors found by HMRC will be treated as prompted and penalties may increase as a result.

The responsibilities of the contractor

It is the contractor within CIS that bears all the risk. If they do not apply the correct CIS deductions, HMRC will seek any CIS tax not deducted from the contractor.

Whilst there is an offset mechanism available where the subcontractor has already included the income in their returns and paid the relevant taxes, there is often a

We are here to help

significant time delay in the payment being made and the subcontractor’s reporting and payment deadlines, leaving the contractor exposed to the liabilities.

Since April 2024, VAT compliance has been included in the compliance tests to obtain and maintain Gross Payment Status. This addition is likely to lead to an increase in the number of subcontractors having Gross Payment Status withdrawn.

If contractors fail to update their records following a change in the subcontractor’s CIS tax status, the liabilities of CIS tax not deducted will fall to the contractor.

What should I do if I receive a letter?

Do not ignore it! We recommend you verify all the subcontractors included in your CIS300 returns during the last 12 months to ensure the correct CIS tax status has been applied. If errors are identified, the CIS300 returns should be amended to reflect the correct deductions.

If errors exist and corrective actions are not taken, HMRC may open a CIS enquiry. These can be very time-consuming to manage and costly as a result of any penalties.

If you have received one of these letters, our specialist employment tax team can help with the review and any necessary corrections. We can also provide a CIS health check review and deliver bespoke training sessions to upskill your team on the complexities of CIS and VAT.

Want time back to focus on your business? We also offer fully Outsourced Finance and Outsourced Payroll solutions, for more information contact claire.purbhoo@azets.co.uk

For further information contact hello@azets.co.uk and one of their local team will get back to you.

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DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY

It was great to be back in the iconic city of Liverpool for the PDA Members and guests networking event on Saturday, 5 October. This fantastic city provided the perfect backdrop for the Gala Dinner, with networking opportunities and announcement of the Apprentice Paperhanger Competition winners.

This year’s speciality act was award winning magician Andrew Dean, with his amazing close-up table magic and illusions.

It was then time to move on to the Apprentice Paperhanger Competition, and the worthy winners were announced and received their prizes, with further awards for two outstanding apprentice decorators, see page 18 for full details.

Held in the Hilton Hotel down by the Royal Albert Dock, the venue is the perfect calm oasis right in the hustle and bustle of Liverpool.

The black-tie event began with a champagne reception followed by a fabulous dinner, with guests entertained throughout with live music from the ever-popular Daniel Morgan-Hayes, Tony Benedict and Joe Morgan.

A FIRST TIMER TELLS ALL!

Saturday night, I found myself at the Liverpool Hilton for the 130th Anniversary Gala Dinner of the PDA was my first time attending – I’m a new member, fresh on the scene – and let me tell you, I had no idea what I was in for. From the moment we arrived, it was like stepping into a whole new world: red carpet, cocktail dresses, black ties, and champagne on arrival – the works!

The highlight of the evening was the Paperhanger Awards – which was both humbling and inspiring. Who knew wallpaper could bring a tear to your eye? Then, the live band started up, and that was it – we danced like we hadn’t danced in years. Special shout-out to the singer and saxophonist (saxophones at a gala? Yes, please!) and the lead singer’s son, who also performed – the talent was unbelievable. Neil, the CEO of the PDA, was so kind and welcoming. He even mentioned my name, which left me completely starstruck. And Yvonne, who organised the event, was absolutely lovely, checking in on us and making sure we were having a great time, not forgetting sweet Denice too.

A huge thank you to the PDA for hosting such an unforgettable night. I’ll be back next year, no question. I’m bringing my partner again – and maybe another special dress. Jessica Walters

After the formalities, it was to the dance floor for the remainder of the evening with hit after hit from the band.

CEO Neil Ogilvie offers his thanks to the sponsors Solvite, Purdy, tesa, and Brewers. The event would not be possible without this industry support.

.9 9

Kit out you and your team with our wide range of PDA branded quality workwear.

We have extended our range of affordable work clothing which now includes Painters Bib N Brace, long sleeve polo shirt and bodywarmer, all in a wider range of size* and colour options too!

*Please refer to each individual size guide before purchasing.

“They look very smart when you turn up for a job. The fleece jackets are lightweight, comfy to drive in and with white overalls, really looks sharp. I would highly recommend them.” – Michael Graham Decorators Ltd

“I recently purchased the new long sleeve t-shirt for this cold spell, it’s very good quality, decently priced and good service.” – P B Painting & Decorating

£23 .9 9

BAGNALLS NEW CAMPUS READY FOR 150 YEARS ANNIVERSARY

BAGNALLS WAS ORIGINALLY established in 1875, over the years there have been a couple of moves but the firm always stayed In Shipley.

In 2022, Stephen Bagnall realised the current offices were not suitable for the future strategic growth of the Bagnalls Group. That is when two properties were bought which now form the Bagnalls Campus in Cleckheaton.

Lindale is an operating division of the company where the North Contracting and National Special Projects teams are based, named after the village in Cumbria where Alfred Bagnall retired.

Penkridge, named after the village in South Staffordshire where Alfred Bagnall was born, is the Main Head Office building where their Support Services team work, undertaking Finance, HR, SHE and Sustainability functions. It also houses the Alfred Heritage room, Group meeting facilities, a wellness room and a gym.

The new campus has been completed just as Bagnalls reaches a milestone anniversary – 150 years in 2025.

Neil Ogilvie, CEO of the Painting and Decorating Assoication made a visit to the new Head Office.

LIGHTHOUSE IS IAN WILLIAMS’ CHOSEN CHARITY OF THE YEAR

LEADING PROPERTY SERVICES provider, Ian Williams is delighted to announce that its chosen charity for 2024-25 is the Lighthouse Charity, the organisation with the unique vision that no construction worker or their family should ever be alone in a crisis. In addition to raising donations for this amazing charity over the next 12 months, Ian Williams will be promoting its status as a Company Supporter to help fund the service for the sector as a whole as well as signposting their employees to the charity’s Helpline, self-support app and Lighthouse Beacons.

Jason Gorin, Ian Williams’ People Director comments, “We’ve been working closely with Lighthouse Charity recently and are excited to become an official Company Supporter over the next 12 months.

He was really impressed and commented, “Bagnalls is one of our longest standing Members, so it was glorious to see the Alfred Heritage room, which captures five generations of company history.

“I particularly like the focus on apprenticeship investment and the new initiatives that have been included in the building to help paint a greener future.

“I wish Bagnalls all the very best for their future in their new Head Office and look forward to being invited back to celebrate their 150th anniversary in 2025!”

www.bagnalls.co.uk

pledged £10,000 which will be supported by additional fundraising activities, but equally important is to raise awareness of the charity across our own teams as well as the sector as a whole.

“Lighthouse service users have said how important it is to easily access the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support they need, when they need it.

“We are also planning on partnering with Lighthouse Charity to provide training for our Mental Health First Aiders as well as utilising their MakeItVisible on site team and Ambassadors. We’re excited to see the innovative and creative ways our teams across the business will be raising donations for these much-needed services provided by the charity”.

“With shocking statistics showing that every single working day in the UK, two construction workers take their own lives, and every year there are over 82,000 work related illnesses directly contributed to working in the sector, we want to do as much as we can to help. This help will come in the form of financial support – we have initially

Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity added, “We are delighted to have Ian Williams’ on board as Company Supporters. Not only are they supporting us financially, their pro-active stance on promoting a positive mental health culture will ensure that their teams know how to reach out for support if they need it and encourage open conversations where people feel supported.” For

At the PDA Trophy Awards in July, apprentice Henry Hart received a special commendation award from CEO Neil Ogilvie. The award was given to contenders who had missed out on the winning slots but had shown talent, dedication, and a great attitude through the heats. Clearly, it’s a family trait, as Henry Hart is the fourth generation of a business dedicated to excellence that has been serving the East Yorkshire area since 1967.

We met up with Henry Hart & Son Ltd and found out how this family centred firm has developed over the years.

IT ’S A FAMILY AFFAIR

HENRY HART & SON WAS established in 1967 by Henry Hart, who initially undertook painting and maintenance tasks, gradually expanding the operations. His son Duncan came into the business, and such is his passion that he is still a director and working part time. Now at the helm is third generation Bradley who runs and oversees the business and apprentice Henry, the latest in line to join the family firm.

Bradley clearly gets such a buzz from the business, “I always keep upto date with the industry and new trends. Being passionate and dedicated in what we love... painting and decorating.”

Having met up with the family, it was not surprising that Henry is also dedicated to the task. He says, “I always wanted to get into the family business from a young age, especially when Covid meant that I was off school and could help dad, as we were designated key workers to do maintenance work.”

Henry is actively involved in the family business while pursuing his Level 2 certification in Painting and Decorating at Doncaster College, demonstrating his commitment to both practical work and academic advancement.

The company has built up a list of key clients for whom they are the main contractor for the maintenance cycle. Priding themselves on using only the highest quality paints, tools, and materials to ensure longlasting results. They have worked hard to ensure that they deliver on time and with a quality finish to their key clients, who include University of York, York St. John’s University and Doncaster City Council

They put their growth down to service and reliability. Their longstanding relationships have stood the test of time as they continue to deliver and are always happy to give support and advice to their clients.

Key roles in managing finance and logistics are with Claire Hart as Administrator and Gail Hart as company secretary. Along with the other Hart family members, the company has long serving employees and contractors to ensure the team is up to the task of delivering. With the company making sure that all who work are up to date with the latest advancements in paint technology and dust free sanding to meet environmental standards.

He took part in the PDA Apprentice of the Year Competition at the Northern Heat, saying, “I have enjoyed competing and I enjoyed the challenge and meeting other apprentices. The competition has given me confidence to undertake challenging tasks, engaging with new people and other apprentices.”

Henry also took part in the Paperhanger Competition, and the results of his performance was revealed during the PDA Gala Dinner, see the article on page 18.

Bradley says he would encourage youngsters to come into the trade, “It’s a great trade to be in, I like seeing the progress of a job at the beginning and then the finished results at the end, I take great pride in what I do.”

Bradley ’s enthusiasm for his work is truly inspiring, and his passion for the trade is evident in the quality of the firm’s work. His encouragement for young people to join the industry highlights the opportunities for growth and fulfilment in painting and decorating. It was great to meet a firm with such positivity and dedication to excellence for the painting and decorating sector.

Left to right; Duncan, Claire, Bradley and Henry Hart.

The ‘non-Hart’ contingent of the team!

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PAPERHANGER

Senior Winner

Holly Duffy

Spain Building and Maintenance Ltd

Accrington and Rossendale College

Senior Runner-Up

Samuel Farnworth

Bryan Lee Building Contractors Ltd

Accrington and Rossendale College

Adapting to other learning styles

When choosing a training provider, it is important to select one that is flexible to your needs and requirements and sets you up to learn and get the best possible experience. Everyone learns in different ways, so it is crucial that training providers offer a variety of opportunities for you to choose the best fit for yourself. For example, some individuals are visual learners who benefit from seeing demonstrations and visual aids, while others are auditory learners who grasp concepts better through listening. However, kinaesthetic learners need hands-on experience to fully understand new skills.

As well as offering a diverse selection of courses, training providers should also ensure that those leading the sessions recognise different learning styles and tailor sessions to them. This can significantly impact the outcome of the training, as for many, the style in which they are taught can make or break the outcome, including what they take away from it and how valuable they find it.

A choice that suits you

There is a vast array of training options available across the country that provide both in-person and online training courses. Detailed in-person courses are fantastic for learning and practicing new skills, offering hands on experience, real-time feedback, and networking opportunities. These courses are perfect for those who thrive on practical exercises and engaging face-to-face with trainers and peers. Dulux Academy’s small class

THE POWER OF TRAINING

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PARTNER FOR YOU

sizes allow attendees to maximise their experience by collaborating with peers, while also having plenty of time to lean on expert trainers for their knowledge and to answer any questions.

What’s more, anyone that has previously taken part in a Dulux Academy course will also have access to The HUB. This is an online platform where decorators can access their own personalised learning and networking experience. The HUB also offers a variety of online training resources and allows for accessible learning that decorators can access at a time that suits them.

For those that struggle to find time to attend in-person courses, there are online options available that provide flexibility and convenience, allowing decorators to refresh their knowledge or explore current trends at a time and place that suits them.

Learning from experts

Another crucial factor to consider when selecting a provider is the quality of trainers delivering the courses. Since training is an investment, it is essential to choose a provider that offers high-quality courses designed to equip you with the necessary skills you need once on a

job. Trainers should therefore have on the tools experience and conduct courses in facilities that replicate real-world environments and situations as closely as possible. This ensures their guidance is practical and accurately reflects the challenges decorators will face on jobs.

A valuable investment

Investing in professional development is crucial for staying competitive in the industry. By continually enhancing skills and knowledge, painters and decorators can ensure they deliver top-quality work and meet the evolving demands of their clients. As training is an investment, some training providers, including Dulux Academy, offer season tickets for those looking to complete multiple courses or regularly attend courses throughout the year. Season tickets can provide savings and flexibility.

Dulux Academy offers a wide range of full day courses that cover an array of topics and techniques including spray application, visual effects, uPVC spray, colour theory and more. Whether it’s an in-person course, online or via The HUB, decorators can easily liaise directly with Dulux Academy experts and receive tips, tricks, and advice, as well as updates on upcoming courses.

To find out more about Dulux Academy and to book a place on a course, visit https://academy.duluxtradepaintexpert.co.uk

NEW LEVEL 3 P&D APPRENTICESHIP GAINS APPROVAL

A LANDMARK ACHIEVEMENT will provide a clear route to progression for painting and decorating apprentices.

The Painting and Decorating Association welcomed the new Level 3 Craft Painting and Decorating qualification, which has been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE).

A new occupational standard and End Point Assessment (EPA) for the qualification was created by PDA’s Education and Training Committee, the Painting and Decorating Trailblazer group, Ann Cook Associates and IfATE, with input from PDA Member companies.

PDA Chief Executive, Neil Ogilvie, said, “Our Education and Training Committee has played a key role in opening up new horizons for painting and decorating apprentices.

“This Level 3 apprenticeship is a natural progression from the Level 2 qualification that was approved for delivery last year. Both are shaped by industry expertise, creating a clear route to success for those embarking on a career in colour.”

Julie Lawrenson, Head of Leaning and Organisational Development at Bell Group is also Chair of PDA’s Education and Training Committee and Chair of the Painting and Decorating Trailblazer Group, she said, “I’m delighted that the Craft Painter and Decorator Level 3 (ST1358) has been approved by IfATE for delivery.

“The Department for Education has agreed a funding cap of £12,000 which we hope will encourage training providers to put Level 3 back on the curriculum.

“This was a huge team effort which benefitted from the hard work of professionals at PDA Members including Ian Williams Ltd, Bagnalls, P&S Timbrell and S&C Painting Services Ltd as well as PDA Chief Executive Neil Ogilvie, working with Ann Cook Associates, the Association of Painting Craft Teachers, CITB and IfATE.”

TRAINING DEVOLVED

EMPLOYER NETWORKS HAVE been created to make it easier for local employers to access training, funded by CITB

All CITB registered employers who are up to date with Levy Returns, Levy payments, or are exempt from paying a Levy, can take part and benefit from the funding available... and there’s no cost to join!

The Pilot scheme supported over 1,000 employers to train their employees.

86% of employers said accessing training was simpler through Employer Networks.

What are the benefits of joining?

• Employers decide how funds are used and on what

80% of employers have said they’ll do more training in future

• Employers decide how funds contribute towards each training need

• It’s an opportunity to be part of an employer led approach to providing funding for training and skills delivery locally employers will no longer need to apply for grant themselves. This will be supported by the Local Adviser To find out more or sign up at citb.co.uk/employer-networks

3M™ professional masking tapes

EXTRA SENSITIVE SURFACES

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BAGNALLS CELEBRATES PAINT GREEN SUCCESS

Alfred Bagnall & Sons Ltd is sharing its achievements across all 16 branches in the UK, as part of the Painting and Decorating Association’s Paint Green scheme.

The PDA officially launched Paint Green in March last year, and Bagnalls was among the first PDA Members to take the Paint Green Pledge to help drive down waste by recycling, reusing or reducing excess paint and recycling paint containers.

Now, to showcase some of the achievements of Paint Green members after the first full year of recording their efforts, Bagnalls is featured in an online case study on the PDA website.

Ben Featherstone, Group Sustainability Co-Ordinator said, “It was important for Bagnalls as long-standing Members of the PDA to support our industry’s initiatives to reduce, reuse and recycle. The Paint Green scheme also aligned closely with our own environmental objectives.

“We donated over 3,000 litres of paint and provided 300 hours of free labour to charities and organisations across the UK through Bagnalls’ Community Paintbrush Scheme. This benefitted 65 different charity and community organisations in total, including 10 sports facilities which provide vital access physical and social activities for young people.

“Through continued efforts and the support of our supply chain partners, we achieved a rate of over 80% of plastic and metal cans recycled in the past year.

“We are hoping to do more of the same as every increment, however small, in our reducing, reusing and recycling initiatives helps to reduce our impact on the environment.”

An estimated 55 million litres of excess paint is generated each year in the UK, and much of it ends up in landfill or being disposed of as hazardous waste. It’s

believed that only around two percent of left-over decorative paint is reused or remanufactured.

PDA Chief Executive, Neil Ogilvie said, “Paint Green aims to encourage PDA Members to tackle waste as a first step towards systemic change that benefits their businesses and communities.

“We’re delighted that Bagnalls have engaged so effectively with Paint Green and hope their achievements inspire more PDA Members to take the first steps towards sustainability by taking the Paint Green Pledge to drive down waste.”

To read the full Bagnalls Paint Green case study visit https://tinyurl.com/PDAGreen

PPG LAUNCHES TOMORROW

PPG HAS ANNOUNCED the launch of the Tomorrow Included® sustainability marketing concept for its Johnstone’s architectural coatings brand. The concept serves as a tool to effectively communicate PPG’s sustainability story, highlighting the sustainable advantages of its products, services, and initiatives.

The Tomorrow Included concept emphasises the importance of making sustainable choices and aims to empower customers and end-users to make more informed decisions about the products they use, giving them greater confidence in their ability to select the right products for their needs.

Sustainability advantages across seven categories, including durability, energy savings, safety, carbon reduction, and recyclability, will be highlighted to effectively communicate the product features and sustainability advantages. It will become visible in various Johnstone’s marketing materials, such as advertisements and websites.

“At PPG, sustainability is built into everything we do... How we innovate, operate, and go to market,” said Megan Esmond, PPG marketing director, “our commitment to sustainability empowers us to guide our customers towards the right product solutions that align with their sustainability ambitions.”

“Sustainability is becoming a qualifier for doing business in many parts of the world. It is a critical topic not only for customers but also for a variety of stakeholders, including investors, employees, potential employees, and suppliers,” said Matthew Baines, PPG general manager, UK & Ireland.

“We believe that having an overarching concept to tell our story in a simple and transparent way will help our customers make more informed choices.”

PPG recently published its 2023 ESG report, which showed strong progress against the company’s near-term 2030 environmental, social and governance (ESG) targets. These include increased sales of sustainably advantaged solutions and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions throughout the company’s own operations and the value chain. To read the report, go to www.ppg.com/sustainability

“We are excited to be a part of the first wave of the new sustainability concept rollout with the Johnstone’s brand,” said Ruby Larvin, PPG marketing manager, “our customers can expect to see new communications brought to life across our digital channels and product touchpoints throughout this year and beyond.”

To find out more visit https://ppgac.co.uk/tomorrow-included/

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P&Dnews

JOHNSTONE’S X TRADEKART

JOHNSTONE’S DECORATING CENTRE has partnered with TradeKart to offer rapid delivery of essential decorating products from 33 of its UK stores.

Following a successful trial within the M25, the service has now been extended to include deliveries from Johnstone’s Decorating Centres in Birmingham and the central belt of Scotland.

Painters and decorators located within a 10-mile radius of the stores can now order materials and have them delivered to their location within just two hours.

TradeKart is designed to save the valuable time and hassle of collecting materials from store. The platform connects customers to their local merchants, offering real-time stock availability updates and access to more than 50,000 trade products, with delivery available in as little as one hour.

Michael Niborski, Decorating Centre and Commercial Operations Director at PPG said, “We were excited to launch a trial of the TradeKart partnership in 19 stores in the M25 area earlier this year, and it was a massive hit with customers! There was huge demand for us to expand the partnership and open it up to painters and decorators further afield, so we’re happy to now be able to offer the service to customers in Central Scotland and Birmingham too.

“It’s great to know that more of our customers can now take advantage of the benefits of TradeKart, with a guarantee for greater flexibility, accessibility and convenience on their jobs.”

Alistair McAuley, founder and CEO at TradeKart, added: “We’re super excited to be partnering with Johnstone’s Decorating Centre – a well-established and trusted brand in the industry and one our customers know and love.

“Our number one priority at TradeKart is ensuring that customers receive their orders, wherever they are, in under two hours, and with 33 stores now offering the service, that’s available to more decorators than ever.”

www.johnstonesdc.com www.tradekart.com

DDC OFFER PAINT E-CYCLING

IN ITS UNWAVERING commitment to delivering exceptional service to its customers, Dulux Decorator Centre has expanded its delivery options. Building on the company’s already robust Rapid delivery service, and taking customer feedback on board, DDC is introducing an e-cargo bike service at two stores to provide London-based customers with a fast and efficient option that promises to deliver within just 90 minutes.

In partnership with Absolutely, a same day courier service, the new delivery service utilises e-cargo bikes to provide a practical solution for London-based professionals that are looking for speedy deliveries. The bikes can beat the London traffic and ensure decorators get the supplies they need quickly and conveniently, without having to leave a job.

The Absolutely e-cargo bikes also offer a cleaner, more sustainable alternative to traditional delivery vans, and are ideal for high-density, short-distance jobs, such as those found in the UK’s capital. ULEZ compliant, and with zero emissions, the e-cargo bikes ensure decorators and painting contractors can choose a more sustainable delivery option – helping them to meet their own sustainability goals, all while being able to complete jobs more efficiently.

Duncan Lochhead at DDC says: “We understand that fast and reliable delivery is crucial for decorators and contractors across the country. In busy city centres like London, it is important to source solutions that can beat the traffic and ensure supplies arrive quickly and conveniently, whilst avoiding the need for decorators to down tools.

“We also know that our customers are becoming increasingly environmentally concious, with many seeking more sustainable solutions for their operations. That’s why we are delighted to announce our new e-cargo bikes.” To find out more about the delivery services Dulux Decorator Centre offers in your area, please visit www.duluxdecoratorcentre.co.uk

3M PROTECTS ARTISTS

3M SUPPORTED CHELTENHAM Paint Festival by donating health and safety products to ensure artists were appropriately protected from air borne particles while creating their artwork at the event.

Returning for its eighth year, the festival saw more than 160 world-renowned street artists come together to transform 100 locations across the town by painting, spraying, or drawing murals to create an inspirational outdoor gallery. Headline artists included Antoine Guignard, also known as LPVDA, who’s described as a storyteller of urban poetry through his portraits, which are crafted using sanded, natural wood.

Artists were provided with a range of professional equipment by 3M, including the new Quick Latch Respirator to protect them from the airborne particles associated with spray painting, brush and roller painting, and orbital and manual sanding, as well as 3M PRO masking tapes to help create their murals and artwork.

Thanks to industry leading innovation, 3M professional home improvement products are designed and built to perform, helping professionals get work done safely, comfortably and to the highest standard possible.

Andrew Davies, organiser of the Cheltenham Paint Festival, said, “The artists all give their time for free, to work on this significant and internationally cherished project. A key priority for us is always the artists’ health and safety, so to be able to provide them with such high-quality equipment makes a huge difference to what we collectively achieve in Cheltenham. I’d like to thank 3M for its outstanding support of this year’s event.”

For more information on 3M visit www.3m.co.uk

TOO GOOD TO MISS!

THIS YEAR’S P&D Show on 19 and 20 November promises to be a cracking experience for decorators with hundreds of new products from around the globe, moneyoff deals that won’t be found elsewhere, and topline presentations from experts in law, safety and sustainability.

Amazing offers, prizes, samples

Major stockists will be tempting visitors with some amazing offers, and of course there will be goody bags, free samples and some fantastic prize draws worth literally thousands of pounds. It’s also a great way to network with fellow professionals and to be ahead of the game with all that’s new to the market.

ITS DOORS SOON

Business boosters

PAINTING AND DECORATING

NATIONAL SHOW

Ladders – what are you buying?

The two in-hall Spotlight Theatres will feature presentations from suppliers demonstrating the practical advantages of their products, some entirely new to the market, plus bite-size sessions on business development including:

• Legal experts Merkel on how decorators can navigate employment law and the impact of changes in employment contracts.

• Going Green – does it make commercial sense for decorators?

Mat Marek of Groni Ecological Decorators, will be explaining how embracing the green agenda works for him and how other professionals could mirror his approach.

Chair of the Ladder Association technical committee and Director at TB Davies (Cardiff) Ltd, Francis Camilleri, looks at the availability of substandard and potentially dangerous ladders on the UK market.

• Preparing, Painting and Sealing a Concrete Floor –There’s big business to be had in factories and industrial units and experts Watco look at the technicalities and methods.

• Spray Painting – what’s the latest? Ian Crump of PaintTech Training Academy will lift the veil!

PAINTING STUDENTS CELEBRATE AT BIG AWARDS

Incredible student winners from across construction specialisms took centre stage at the annual Leeds College of Building BIG (Building Industry Greats) Awards.

Host, TV and radio broadcaster, Rich Williams announced 49 award-winners at the poignant ceremony held at Leeds United FC Centenary Pavilion, showcasing students and apprentices from the 2023/2024 academic year.

CEO and College Principal Nikki Davis welcomed guests to the drinks reception and dinner before students were recognised for their outstanding achievements. Awards were given for accomplishments such as academic attainment, perseverance, determination, or success at national trade competitions.

One of the top titles of the night was the new Principal’s Award, introduced for the first time this year. The inaugural trophy went to Khiara Anderson who moved to Leeds College of Building after facing challenges in education. During her time, Khiara earned distinctions in all her units, demonstrating a remarkable turnaround in her behaviour.

Khiara’s nominating tutor said she is excelling in the trade areas and even earned a week of work experience with Bagnalls, where she made such a positive impression that they offered her a painting and decorating apprenticeship, which she happily accepted.

Khiara said, “I wasn’t expecting to receive the Principal’s Award but I’m extremely happy. I’m proud of my achievements, especially my apprenticeship with Bagnalls, and now I’m working towards my Level 3 and beyond!”

The Painting & Decorating Student of the Year went to Katie Sanders, who was nominated for showing dedication, progression, a willingness to learn, and working tirelessly on her techniques.

The Paperhanger of the Year award went to Isobel Colleran who was also shortlisted to attend the PDA Gala Dinner (see page 18) where she will find out how she placed in the top three in the country.

Nikki Davis said, “Congratulations to all students and apprentices receiving awards. It’s wonderful to celebrate these incredible achievements, and I wish all winners every success going forward. Thanks also to our amazing staff who go above and beyond in nurturing the next generation of construction and built environment talent.

“I would also like to thank our sponsors and emphasise how grateful we are for this unwavering support. These excellent links with the industry are vital for our students who benefit from bespoke training materials, specialist tools, and critical hands-on work experience opportunities provided by our partner employers.” www.lcb.ac.uk

Readers of The Decorator will find plenty this November to make their day offsite really worthwhile.

Khiara Anderson receives the inaugural Principal’s Award from Nikki Davis.

Katie Sanders. Isobel Colleran.

BRADITE HAND-PICKED FOR ORCHARD MURAL

BRADITE ONE CAN has been used to create an expressive mural at a Kent farm where a famous local tipple is produced.

Nightingale Cider, based in the heart of the Garden of England, uses locally-grown apples to brew an impressive range of drinks that can be found in pubs, bars and restaurants around the UK.

Company boss Sam Nightingale agreed to a suggestion from neighbour, graphic artist Anthony Burrill, to use the side of a barn for an unashamedly positive message.

Burrill enlisted the help of Many Hands Studio, and together they transformed the austere rural building with the message ‘YES!OK!’ in a double layer of six foot letters, rendered in black and white using Bradite One Can.

“We chose One Can because of its durability and also because it is water-based. It was also appropriate in what is basically an industrial setting,” said Many Hands Studio’s Luke James.

“We had talked with Anthony for some time about creating a mural in the Kent countryside. The tranquil setting provides a unique backdrop and is a stark contrast to the vast majority of our murals which are painted in urban environments.”

The mural forms part of the annual transformation from barnyard to tap room as Nightingale opens to the public for selected weekends during the Summer. To celebrate the artwork, Nightingale has produced a limited-edition cider can design.

www.bradite.com

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Robert Alexander

To ensure a superb final finish, Robert devoted many hours to extensive preparation of the stairwell of this Grade II listed Manor House. Ceilings, walls and woodwork were all spray finished using Little Greene emulsion and eggshell.

Astryan NE Ltd

Decoration of this newly refurbished hotel involved application of Farrow & Ball paints and wallpapers to create luxurious spaces, with Osmo Wax Oil used on the glulam timbers.

Absolute Painting & Decorating

With the door and its furniture removed, everything was carefully sanded back, fully masked, and then sprayed with Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Satin in RAL3011 – Looks like new!

Farrow & Ball Peony wallpaper is complimented with Vert de Terre on walls and woodwork with Lime White ceiling Creative Curtains in Hailsham provided the handmade matching curtains to complete the look.

G. BORG

Before

A beautiful cinema wall with hidden doors to next room each side. Sanded down with Mirka dustless system, finished with Graco spray paint system and Paint and Paper Library paint in Sharkskin.

There was more work in this than it appears as customer wanted oil based undercoat/gloss on a lot of the woodwork and sills. Quite a bit initial preparation too –looks good now though!

DRM completed a full redecoration of this former Jewish Soup Kitchen in Spitalfields, London. The old limewash-style decor was stripped away before painting all wooden beams, windows and worktops with Zinsser All Coat, and Dulux Trade Diamond Matt on walls.

Congratulations DRM Decorating Services – £100 of vouchers for use at Brewers are now on the way!

Farbaworks

Islandmagee P&D

Autumn is here, it’s the start of the new academic year - kids are off to school, college and uni. Many people (except teachers) have a bit more time, a bit more headspace.

It’s a great time to think about the future, about what needs changing, about learning new stuff, about what needs focusing on over the last few months of the year.

Tur ni ng over a N ew leaf

Book in exteriors for next year

The weather is going to make things like timber repairs tricky, and I’m sure I’m not the only decorator who’s painted some masonry only to be hit with an unexpected frost and find the paint running down the wall and onto the pavement the next morning.

So for any enquiries, put them off until next year if you can. Don’t give exact dates, it’ll depend on the weather, but give customers rough dates to start, and tell them they’re number one, or two or three in the queue to manage expectations.

Customers who have kids will have more time and mental capacity to think about interior decorating, especially before Christmas. They’ll have emptier houses too – so however you do your marketing,

Have a look through your equipment

Is there stuff in your toolkit that you never use but you’re carting around? Are there tools or brushes that aren’t really performing? Do you need to do some careful shopping for a new kit?

Have a look at the new products on the block, could you start using more environmentally sustainable materials? It’s the way things are going, it’s a good thing to do and it may give you some marketing advantages.

A whole new you

The kids are off to school or university, so why not take the time to think about new skills for you. It could be a spraying course, or something decorative, or get in touch with your local Growth Hub or similar business support groups, there may be some free business courses available, funded by local councils.

Networking groups start getting busy again in the autumn, as kids are at school. Go to a few of them locally to see which ones you like. Trades can do especially well because everyone needs them at some point. Remember that it’s about building relationships, not just sales on the day.

Think about getting some customer testimonials

Video ones are the best. Do them in good light though, next to a window or outdoors. If people aren’t willing to do that, get written ones and put them on social media. Testimonials where your customers are telling people how good you are, are more powerful than you telling people how good you are! And give some testimonials yourself. If you have a supplier who has great customer service as well as the products you need, give them a testimonial too. They’ll love you for it.

If you work collaboratively with a builder or architect or interior designer, give them a plug online too. People appreciate those who promote others.

Refresh your website

It’ll help your SEO to make your website more discoverable, and you can then post about the blogs on social media.

Think about going to trade events like the National Painting and Decorating Show. Don’t just think about the freebies, but look at learning about new skills, about new products, and most importantly, about those relationships with other decorators as well as suppliers. Everyone is stronger together.

The timber cladding on this building had weathered heavily over the short time since its construction, PPG’s colour consultants were on hand to advise...

New life for NHS facility

Set on a sloping, wooded parkland site with views over the River Tay, the Dudhope Young People’s Inpatient Unit is a facility supporting young people with complex mental health conditions.

Part of the North of Scotland Regional Inpatient CAMHS Unit, under NHS Tayside, the 12-bed purpose-built facility was constructed in 2015 to provide care to young people aged 12 to 18.

In the years since construction, the larch timber cladding on the building’s façade had tarnished and started to look worn. The woodwork had been initially treated with a coloured preserver but, due to a lack of

regular maintenance, most of the coating had faded over time. Along with regular exposure to wet weather conditions, the building had discoloured, and mould and fungal decay began turning the wood black.

To address the issue, I&K Decorators Ltd was brought in to restore the building’s appearance and protect it from further decay by renovating the wooden cladding.

Scandinavian treatment

The I&K Decorators team, led by Ian Lawson and Kevin Mason, started work on the project in May 2023 and opted to use GORI Professional 88 Compact Opaque Wood Finish for its superior coverage and protection.

Developed by Scandinavian woodcare experts, GORI is a premium wood treatment range from PPG that offers up to 15 years’ high performance, helping designers and contractors protect their projects for longer.

“Wood is an amazing material. It’s natural, it’s renewable, and it’s beautiful. But for it to perform like we need it to, its protection needs to be amazing too. Scandinavians have known this for years, which is why they’ve trusted GORI there since 1902. With GORI, this incredible material can be preserved for even longer, reducing the need for maintenance and improving sustainability,” said Tony Walker, Technical Specification Controller at PPG.

Tarnished and looking worn, the larch timber cladding had been initially treated with a coloured preserver but never received regular maintenance.

The non-drip exterior wood coating is formulated with innovative Slow-Release technology, meaning the active ingredients are only released when necessary, to ensure a long-lasting quality finish on new and previously treated wood.

In collaboration with PPG’s colour consultants, the team colour matched the product to ensure the new paintwork complemented the surroundings and other elements of the building.

“It was important for us to make sure the wood finish would look appropriate in the context of the facility and the wider environment, and with GORI being available in thousands of colours, we were able to find the perfect match,” said Kevin Mason.

The I&K team started by setting up scaffolding around the building and removing the old finish with sandpaper. The first coat of GORI 88 Compact was thinned with ProGold Turpentine to allow for better absorption, followed by two coats applied with standard brushes.

“The weather was the biggest challenge as it rained almost every day,” said Kevin, “We had to suspend work for four days due to stormy conditions. Despite this, the product performed exceptionally well and made our job easier. GORI 88 Compact is one of the best products we have used. It was easy to apply, offered great coverage, and provided an excellent finish... Probably the best out there. It surely lasts longer than other products on the market.”

“The building now looks good as new and the client even said it exceeded their expectations,” stated Kevin.

To conclude Tony said, “We’re so happy we could help Ian and Kevin complete this important project with GORI. The wooden exterior needed extra protection, and with its unique formulation and extended durability, GORI 88 was the best choice. With a great new finish in the perfect colour, the building façade will look beautiful for staff and residents for years to come.”

Good as new

Completing the work in just two weeks, the I&K team treated a total of 250m2 of wooden cladding using 65 litres of GORI 88 Compact Opaque Wood Finish.

The Peterborough Palace has been the official residence of the Bishop of Peterborough since 1541, but parts of the building date back even earlier. Ian Williams were employed by GVD Building & Restorations to undertake internal and external painting and decorating as part the refurbishment prior to a new Bishop taking up residence.

Painting a Palace

The project was 90 miles away from Ian Williams’ Birmingham offices where most of the team are based, so they agreed with their operatives that they would be temporarily located within a rented Airbnb near to the works location. Provided with full provisions and pay for the additional time away from home, this resulted in drastically reduced travel across the contract period, supporting reduction in carbon emissions

The internal works comprised the decoration of 38 rooms, which had to be completed whilst working around main contractor operatives. Outside, window frames, gutters and lampposts with all repainted from white to black.

One of the reception rooms prior to works, and complete above.

Problems were avoided by allocating a dedicated Lead Foreperson who liaised daily with the main contractor team, agreeing early starts and later finishes for each day. This actually led to the Ian Williams team completing the project one week ahead of the four week schedule.

Being such an old building, there was understandably a great deal of preparation required, working around bespoke features, including curtain pelmets, coving/mouldings, exposed stonework, ceiling lantern, banisters, sash windows etc.

All final coatings were sourced from Crown Trade matched to Dulux Heritage colours. Matt Emulsion was used on ceiling and walls, with Satin Finish for all interior wood and metalworks.

with them on 0121 326 1920 or visit their website at www.ianwilliams.co.uk

Ian Williams Ltd are Members of the PDA with branches nationwide. You can get in touch

One unusual feature of the property was a deep concave sphere shape dug out within one of the walls, said to be put in place as one of the former Bishops was too tall to lie in the bathtub that used to be in place there.

Before

After

Joy™ to the World

DULUX is asking decorators to embrace yellow and infuse a sense of optimism, pride and imagination into their projects. As a guiding light to introduce these bold, positive shades to clients, the paint manufacturer has announced True Joy™ as its Colour of the Year for 2025, which is complemented by three versatile ColourFutures™ palettes.

Over the last two decades, the Dulux Colour of the Year has been chosen through extensive trend research by Dulux colour experts and international design professionals. The 2025 selection, True Joy™, is a bright and positive yellow that reflects people’s desire to break free, reset, and create something new and exciting.

As well as embracing True Joy™, Dulux has created a Decorator Guide which includes mood boards that can be used to help clients to leap out of their comfort zone - and feel confident in doing so.

Dulux is also proud of its ongoing efforts to produce durable solutions in a more sustainable manner. By focusing on reducing carbon emissions and increasing the circular use of materials, Dulux ensures that products like True Joy™ not only enhance spaces aesthetically but also contribute to a greener future. Using up to 70% recycled content in packaging and developing paints with lower VOC content, Dulux is dedicated to helping professionals create beautiful, sustainable environments.

To help decorators advise their clients on the best colour pairings, Dulux has created three supporting ColourFutures™ palettes.

Inspired by the thrill of adventure, these bold colours bring spontaneity and energy to any space. Bright blues and oranges contrast beautifully with yellow, making them ideal for education and office environments where inspiration and creativity are key. In the home, they are perfect for home offices or children’s play areas.

These shades are inspired by raw materials used in handmade processes, including wood and clay. These colours make people feel grounded and connected and can be used for both building interiors and exteriors alike. They add a touch of authenticity and warmth that is perfect for living spaces, as well as education and healthcare settings.

Drawing inspiration from diverse cultures around the world, these deep, rich and earthy browns and greens celebrate the rich heritages that make us unique. Ideal for the hospitality and residential sectors, its deep blues and browns are perfect for creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the home where everyone feels rooted.

Bold Colour Story

Human Colour Story

Proud Colour Story

True Joy™ can be used as a bold statement colour or an accent hue.

Features & Benefits

‘ Concealed nasal filters

‘ Five different sizes

‘ Sample selection pack available

‘ Recyclable filters and packaging

@o2armor www.o2armor.com

I don’t know about you all, but I often wondered why we don’t have filters that could be inserted into our noses, as I sometimes find wearing masks very restrictive and uncomfortable, especially when I had a beard but also with my moustache

Well, I’ve been using O2 Armor Nasal Filters for the last nine months, and to say I am impressed is an understatement! With good hygiene practice, they stay in place all day, providing airway protection, and my face feels free when wearing them.

O2 Armor Nasal Filters have an accreditation from AllergyUK for being an allergy-friendly product, providing filtration for dust pollen, mould spores, pet dander (animal skin) and smoke pathogens, capturing 90% of harmful airborne particles at PM10 and 65% at PM2.5.

Manufactured using flexible medical-grade TPE that will adapt to your nose for a snug fit. The connecting band uses a latex-free material that helps eliminate allergy flare-ups. The filter life depends on what you’re doing, but on average, expect about 12 hours use.

We all have noses of different sizes, and I am glad to say they have many options from extra-small to extra-large! The best idea is to order a sample pack to find which fits best.

O2 Armor Nasal Filters and packaging are recyclable, and are available in quantities of 3,10, 25, and 50.

Features & Benefits

‘ Sealant and adhesive

@ct1sealant www.ct1.com

I have been replacing silicone around baths and showers for the last ten years, but upped my game this year and started using BT1 Ultimate Bathroom Sealant and Adhesive with exceptional results!

‘ 290ml cartridge

‘ Mould resistant

‘ Effective against E.coli & MRSA

Quick drying BT1 uses scientifically developed TRIBRID ® Technology, which is incredibly resistant to mould fungi, and effective against E.coli and MRSA. It is a sealant plus an adhesive, this is great because it can bond so many things –wood, glass, ceramics, tiles, concrete, brickwork, UPVC metals, shower panels, fibreglass and most plastics.

I particularly like that this product is designed and manufactured in Britain, although BT1 is currently only available in white 290ml cartridges with a shelf life of 18 months. Fully cured BT1 can be painted with water-based paints, but it’s definitely worth testing beforehand.

tool TALK

Products independently tested and recommended by Award Winning Decorator, Wayne de Wet

One of each item recommended in this edition of Tooltalk (including the next page!) are available to one lucky PDA Member!

For your chance to win, send an email to tooltalk@the-decorator.co.uk Well done to our most recent winner, Matthew Lemon of MJL Decorating Services!

@wrapitstorage www.wrapitstorage.com

Being organised is something I try to be... In my van, studio garage and loft! I have never been a fan of bungee cords, however, after I visited the National Hardware Show in Las Vegas, where I tried these out, I was instantly converted.

The Bungee Buddy cord organiser comes with eight brightly coloured, thick but firm, elasticated bungee cords, which are nothing like the previous ones I had used in the past!

The hooks are also very thick, with a matt plastic encasement over a steel core, and can stretch twice the original length, the set comprises of 2 x 18” red, 2 x 24” yellow, 2 x 30” green, and 2 x 36” blue.

The black plastic Bungee Cord Organiser keeps the set safely together in one place, and features oval cutouts for the bungees to hook onto, plus it has a built-in handle at the top.

Multiple uses for trade, DIY, sport, or moving things on sack carts, etc.

Features & Benefits

‘ Eight colour coded multiple size cords

‘ Coated steel hooks

‘ Storage organiser

When working on exteriors, anything that can speed up the preparation, mainly removing algae, gets a huge thumbs up from me!

The Path, Patio, and Decking Cleaner has to be diluted as per instructions, which is one part product to three parts clean water. I’ve found that the best application method is using my cordless TopBuxus garden sprayer! Although a paintbrush or soft broom can also be used.

The best thing is, you simply apply on a dry day to dry surfaces, leave it to do its thing, with no scrubbing and no rinsing required! The algae will disappear, and the product helps to keep it from reappearing for up to 9 months.

You will see results in a few days, but if re-painting afterwards wait until the green algae has gone.

Algon is environmentally and pet friendly, plus it is safe to use near children, and the container is recyclable. You can even use near fishponds but read up on the instructions to keep the run off to a bare minimum, as a rule of thumb, I protect grass and plants from any over-spray.

Features & Benefits

‘ Environment friendly

‘ Pet friendly

‘ No scrubbing

‘ No rinsing

‘ Multiple surface use

The product can be used on painted and unpainted walls, fences, flagstones, slate and felt roofs, pebbles, decking, patios, block paving, pathways, sheds, glass, plastic fabric and more. Always read and fully understand the instructions though, as there are a few surfaces it shouldn’t be applied to, such as galvanized surfaces, bare iron, unfinished zinc.

Algon Organic also manufactures a specific Fence Cleaner

tool TALK

You may be forgiven for thinking that all extension reels are the same – some are very different, like the Masterplug® Pro XT Reverse Reel.

The Reverse Reel features a weather proof IP54 rated socket on an exceptionally brightly coloured high visibility 25m cable to reduce trip hazards and cable cut through, plus a pretty unique 13 amp plug on a 3m fly lead. This makes it easy to get extra cable, or reel it in, without detaching your power tool – making it an essential part of my kit, especially when using a pressure washer.

It has an open reel, which I prefer as I like to see the cable when winding in. This reel benefits from an impressive cable guide, directing the cable onto the reel as you wind it in using the pull-out drum handle, keeping it tanglefree and tidy. A neat cable clip lets you attach the weatherproof single socket via the flex to the side reel wall; this prevents it from hanging out all over the place, thus avoiding trip hazards.

A wall mounting bracket is available to purchase, which would work well in a garage or outbuilding.

Features & Benefits

‘ 25m + 3m fly lead

‘ Thermal protection

‘ IP54 Weatherproof

‘ High visibility cable

‘ Wall mountable

‘ Five-year warranty

Regarding dry-lining and plasterboard repairs, I pride myself on producing high-quality work. With 3WAY prefabricated internal corners, I know that part of the job has become more effortless and incredibly fast.

3WAY pre-formed corners feature an adjustable angle to facilitate all eventualities of corners out of square or damaged plasterboards. The reinforced card backing covers gaps and any damaged boards, and the hard card has a sealed face that allows the joint compound to bond to it without softening the card's bevelled and perforated edges, which allows excellent feathering to be obtained. Available in packs of 5, 10, and a 25 bulk pack.

Features & Benefits

‘ Pre-formed internal corners

‘ Adjustable corner angle

‘ Bevelled & perforated edges

‘ Time-saving system

toolUP

Keep up to date with what’s available for the modern decorator

Brighten

up your workplace

www.festool.co.uk

Interpon D2525 Low-E range has been specifically designed to withstand conditions in more extreme locations, such as those exposed to harsh weather, it can also improve longevity in standard environments. Using industry-first technology the new range can be cured at temperatures as low as 150ºC – while still delivering the supreme levels of quality and performance demanded by customers in the buildings and construction sector. D2525 Low-E can either be cured at a lower temperature to cut energy consumption by as much as 20%, or it can be cured up to 25% faster than conventional powders. It’s ideally suited to any architectural or industrial metal surface, both exterior and interior, with excellent levels of durability.

Festool have expanded their range of lighting solutions with two new cordless products: The handy SYSLITE KAL C is a typical light that you'll always want at your side. It is very compact and illuminates areas brightly and evenly in a colour that replicates daylight. With its lamp head that can swivel to any position, it is particularly handy in narrow and difficult to access places. Its bigger sibling, the new SYSLITE KBS C cordless construction light, provides optimum illumination for floors, walls and ceilings and therefore enables perfect work results for medium surfaces. It can also be positioned in any number of ways and comes with a swivelling housing. With 5000 lumens, it shines in a colour that replicates daylight and can be dimmed to any degree desired. Both products are compatible with all Festool battery packs (except for Ergo pack).

With unrivalled eco-credentials within the industry, Graphenstone paint features sustainable, easy-to-use finishes that are rich in colour to create a standout space. They offer paints and primers, certified by the pre-eminent evaluators of products in the world, such as Cradle to Cradle Institute (they hold Gold, Silver and Bronze certifications), Green Tag (Health Rate Platinum) and Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold.

Graphenstone use sustainably sourced, traditional raw materials (including lime, calcium carbonates and natural minerals) and combine them with the ultimate in material innovation by fusing them with graphene, to deliver a breathable, natural mineral based coating, with increased surface adhesion and Class 1 durability.

The complete range of natural, healthy products also contain pure inert carbon based ‘graphene’ technology. This super strong, (and Nobel prize winning!) 21st Century discovery forms a powerful mesh at the molecular level of these natural products, offering supreme strength and performance. Some mineral paints are difficult to apply, but with Graphenstone paints, they are extremely easy to use. They can be rolled, brushed or sprayed and go on smoothly, richly and easily.

Remote working for batteries

New look for Libéron www.liberon.co.uk

Libéron has expanded its range of formulations for outdoor application, and revamped its packaging with colour-coding to make finding the right product easier. Libéron’s new Superior Protection Woodstain requires only two coats with the first one dry after just three hours. An eight-year guarantee for outstanding protection, it is ideal for outdoor cladding, window frames or doors, and can be applied over most existing woodstains. New Superior Decking Stain is water-repellent, protects against damage from sunlight, and has a ‘biosourced’ formula, which includes vegetable oils and modified bio-based resins to reduce environmental impact but still maintain superior performance. Take a closer look at this year’s P&D Show in November!

www.makitauk.com

Makita has added six new orbit sanders to its XGT 40VMax range that use an innovative cable connection to the battery, meaning the weight is removed from the sander itself. As a result, the new cordless sanders offer superior ease of use and manoeuvrability as well as delivering the excellent levels of performance and runtimes that professionals demand. The powerful additions to the range provide an ideal alternative to pneumatic sanders, the efficient brushless motor utilised by the new range of sanders reduces wasted energy to help deliver maximum power and extended runtimes from each battery charge. The six XGT sanders all deliver between 6,000 and 10,000 orbits per minute with the variable speed control.

www.coo-var.co.uk

Coo-var are introducing a new formula for their Suregrip ® line of anti-slip floor paint. Suregrip Aqua maintains the exceptional anti-slip properties and durability of the original Suregrip while offering the added benefits of being quick drying, having low odour and low VOC Emissions. Perfect for those seeking both safety and efficiency in their floor coatings, the new Suregrip ensures a high-performance, durable finish with reduced environmental impact.

Mirka UK is introducing the DEROS II 750 orbital sander incorporating a 175mm sanding pad to enable quicker and flatter sanding of large surfaces. The DEROS II 750 is an ergonomic and comfortable solution, with a 400W motor and variable speed control from 6,000 to 9,000, visible with LED indicators. The DEROS II 750 is supplied with an edge protector, designed to fit easily and will prolong the lifetime of the backing pad as it helps prevent damage to the periphery of the pad. Mirka® DEROS II represents the latest advancement in their line of orbital sanders, which are engineered to enhance tool performance across multiple industries. Despite being engineered for more extensive surfaces, this sander maintains the original DEROS ’s hallmark features of being lightweight, ergonomic, and easy to handle.

In our latest interview with Purdy about how the company designs its product range, we speak to Senior Product Manager, Andy Cummins, to find out where productivity fits in.

productiv ity on ...

Is it possible for a painter’s equipment to affect their speed on the job?

Absolutely. Substandard paint pick-up and layoff, roller lint or unsightly tramlines in a paint job can all impact a painter’s productivity, and these are ultimately tool-based issues. In a previous column we’ve also discussed the importance of ergonomics and how comfortable a tool is to use as that can impact how quickly a task can be carried out. Productivity is always at the forefront of product development at Purdy as ultimately, we want our tools to help users take on more work and increase their bottom line.

What products would you recommend for users interested in improving their productivity?

For larger paint jobs I would recommend picking up an adjustable roller frame that has plastic caps at either end, as these work to reduce roller sleeve walk off. A fitment in the handle will also allow it to be connected to a roller extension pole so you can easily use the same roller across numerous tasks and switch between roller sleeves.

I’d then recommend opting for a knitted roller sleeve as opposed to a woven or microfibre sleeve. Knitted sleeves with a thicker nap, like Purdy’s Colossus sleeve which has a nap size of up to 1 inch, pick up and release far more paint than the alternatives, reducing the number times you will need to reload your roller over the course of a job. To avoid dropping lint in your fresh coat of paint, select a roller that features a strong material like polypropylene or polyamide that’s bound to the core with a high-quality epoxy glue to keep fibres in place.

Finally, look for a sleeve with tapered ends as this avoids the build-up of paint at the edges of the roller and reduces the likelihood of tramlines.

What about on smaller jobs and finer details, can a new brush impact productivity?

We would always recommend carefully selecting the right brush for the job. It may seem easier to have a go-to brush, a one size fits all favourite, but that could be hampering the efficiency of your application.

At Purdy, we recommend having a selection of brushes in your kit: a brush designed for emulsion, such as the Purdy Monarch Elite, a cutting-in brush suited to water based trim paint, such as the Purdy Sprig and a soft brush, like the Purdy Syntox, to achieve a glossy finish when using water and solvent-based stains, varnishes and oils. It is also worth considering a brush with angled filaments to make cutting in easier and more accurate. Plus, a brush suited to exterior use, ideally suitable for oil-based paints with stiffer filaments for coating coarser surfaces is a useful addition. Each of these brushes has been designed purposely to provide the ideal level of paint pick up and lay off and the ideal surface finish for each of the relevant coatings.

As with roller sleeves, always keep an eye out for brushes that utilise bolstered epoxy to lock the brush’s filaments into place as this means they are less likely to fall out and ruin your finish.

Transporting all this kit from site to site can be a challenge – how can that be streamlined?

We appreciate that recommending tradespeople use a specific paint brush for every type of job can mean they have a lot of equipment to move every day. But there are a range of storage systems on the market that can make your workday run smoother.

For transporting tools around site and keeping them secure in the van, consider products like the Purdy Backpack (pictured above) or Painter’s Storage Box (see The Decorator – Summer 2024) Manufactured from a durable, weather resistant materials, both systems have several dedicated compartments to house a variety of tools and keep your equipment clean and tidy, including a storage area specifically designed for transporting wet brushes and rollers after use so there’s no need to clean them on site.

Pick up a patch from Brewers

Graphenstone Paints have announced their recent new collaboration with Brewers Decorator Centres. From the start of October, Graphenstone will showcase its standard range of 96 ‘House’ colours and The Treasured Collection, a range of 16 colours inspired by artefacts from the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford.

As part of this partnership, Brewers will be the first of Graphenstone’s distributors to launch the revolutionary new peel-and-stick patches. The new patches are made using 30% recycled materials and, by using tiny suction cups rather than adhesive on the backs, they are also 100% reusable and recyclable.

Each patch features a unique QR code, which, when scanned, provides the trade professional or customer with a full-colour explanation, recommendations for finishes, and additional application advice.

The new patches will make it easy for anyone to check what colour they want without having to buy expensive and messy sample pots. This initiative will vastly reduce the amount of paint and packaging that is wasted. They will be available initially from Brewers in Abingdon, Barnstable, Cambridge North, Cheltenham, Exeter, Lincoln, Leicester Freeman Common, Maidenhead, Putney, Surbiton, Trowbridge, and York, with a further branch-wide rollout planned.

As part of its on-going business strategy, Graphenstone has also pledged to plant a tree for every peel-and-stick paint patch sold in a separate partnership with Switch2Zero, a leading company in sustainable technology solutions.

sustainability pledges to decarbonise, consume less and eliminate waste across their organisation.

Graphenstone founder Patrick Folkes says, “Innovation has always been at the heart of our company ethos, and these new peel-and-stick swatches are nothing short of genius. Not only will it make life easy for anyone wishing to check what colour they want without having to buy lots of expensive and messy sample pots, but it will vastly reduce the amount of waste paint and packaging, and the stockist will save valuable storage space. It’s a win for the environment, a win for customers and a win for Brewers.”

This innovative new store concept offers a, convenient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution for paint sampling in line with Brewers own

Graphenstone has become one of the paint industry’s most certified sustainable brands. Its Purifying Paint ranges fuse traditional raw materials such as lime, calcium carbonates, and natural minerals with graphene, one of the planet's most robust inert carbon fibres. This combination results in a natural mineral-based coating with Class 1 durability – the ultimate in material innovation. Its unique formulations actively help to ‘purify’ the air by absorbing CO2 as they cure, with the majority absorbed within the first 30 days following application.

Browse and order the Graphenstone range online at www.brewers.co.uk/search?q=Graphenstone

Go!Painting and Decorating Show

Go!Paint is thrilled to announce their eleventh time at the P&D Show in Coventry on 19 and 20 November. This event is an excellent opportunity experience their latest innovations and expanded product range.

Expanded Product Range

Go!Paint has significantly expanded its range of professional painting tools to meet the evolving needs of the industry. Go!Paint are always looking to improve their products in an innovative, sustainable way in collaboration with professional painters. One of which is the new 5-litre paint bucket, designed to increase efficiency and convenience on the job. They’ll also be showing new products and prototypes ready for feedback.

A comprehensive selection of scuttles and buckets, available in 5, 8 and 12 litres, are made of 100% recycled plastic. They help professional painters work faster, better and cleaner, and are available in Economy and Professional Roll & Go lines, including private labeling options, providing solutions for both budget-conscious and premium-seeking customers.

Find Go!Paint in Coventry

Professional painters, category managers, and distributors are invited to visit the Go!Paint booth at the Painting and Decorating Show in November. Discover firsthand how their expanded product range and innovative solutions can enhance your painting projects. Their team of experts will be on hand to demonstrate and sell Go!Paint products and answer any questions you may have. Of course there will be special show-only offers and limited editions that you don’t want to miss!

Brushcare Solutions

A superior painting experience

Go!Paint liners are designed in collaboration with professional painters to help you achieve a faster, better, and cleaner painting process, ultimately saving you time and improving the quality of your work.

The steep liners have a perfect fit, prevent flaking and can be reused up to four times, even with different colours.

Go!Paint’s liners allow professionals to focus more on their craft and less on the cleanup, making them an indispensable part of any painter's toolkit.

In line with their commitment to sustainability, Go!Paint is proud to highlight their biobased gel, which is rapidly gaining popularity as a perfect solution for environmentally conscious professionals. With this biobased gel you can quickly store your used brushes and keep them for months. Just simply wipe them off before using them again with the same colour paint. You no longer have to rinse your brushes and pollute water with micro plastics. Go!Paint gel supports environmentally friendly practices, allowing painters to work more sustainably without compromising on quality.

The innovative Brush Magnet.

The right tape for the job

Many decorators are turning to masking tapes to ensure cleaner lines, reduce time spent cutting in, and minimise the need for touch-ups. However, not all masking tapes are created equal, and choosing the right one for the job can make a significant difference in the final result. Mathieu Nesme, Development Engineer at 3M, shares advice on selecting the right masking tape.

Start with the substrate

The key to choosing the right masking tape always begins with the substrate. Rougher surfaces require tapes with higher adhesion. On the other hand, smoother and recently painted surfaces require tapes with lower adhesion to prevent any damage when the tape is removed.

Leading manufacturers offer an extensive range of masking tapes to meet the varying demands of different surfaces. However, a critical point to note is that the colour of tapes can vary between brands. A green tape in one brand may not serve the same purpose as a green tape in another. Therefore, decorators must always check the packaging to ensure they use the correct tape for their needs.

For smoother and recently painted substrates, delicate and sensitive surface tapes are specifically designed for this purpose, offering just enough adhesion to create a clean edge without damaging the paint beneath. These tapes are safe for use on surfaces such as painted plasterboard, walls, wood floors, vinyl-coated wallpaper, veneers, and cabinets that have dried for as little as two hours.

For rough, porous and uneven areas, decorators should opt for purpose-designed rough surface tapes that can be used across various internal and external substrates, including unfinished hardwood, carpet, marble, slate, stone, cement and laminate. Rough surface tapes can also be used externally on brick and metal trims, for example, ensuring a clean finish even in outdoor conditions.

Quality of finish

A further factor to consider is the desired finish and complexity of the project. When working with highly contrasting colours, defined lines or particularly visible spaces, sharp line and precision tapes are ideal. Featuring specially treated thin washi paper material, they help achieve a super sharp paint line on smooth or slightly textured surfaces without bleeding.

Decorators will also benefit from having a multi surface, multipurpose tape in their armoury, which has the flexibility to be used indoors and outdoors, and for projects and areas where absolute precision isn’t necessary.

The art of tape

Choosing the right tape, however, is only part of the equation; how the tape is applied and removed is equally important to achieving a flawless finish. When taping, it is best to press firmly on the edges of the tape to prevent paint bleed. After painting, it’s best to remove the tape at a 45 to 90-degree angle, pulling in the direction of the tape to minimise the risk of lifting the paint or damaging the surface underneath. A slow and steady removal process is also advised to avoid pulling off any underlying materials like plaster. By choosing the right tape for the job – and using it correctly –masking tapes can help professionals further elevate their finish and do it with ease and speed.

Visiting manufacturers and seeing firsthand how things are developed, tested, and brought to market is always an exciting experience for the curious.

In July, Hamilton opened their doors for a site tour and The Decorator got the lowdown on their much-rated product range...

HAMILTON ’S COMMITMENT TO QUALITY CONTINUES

Hamilton Decorating Tools is a well-known British company that makes top-quality painting and decorating tools. With over 270 years of history, Hamilton is a trusted name in the professional decorating industry.

The company started in 1746 as Hamilton Decorating Tools and quickly established itself on innovations. Early patents for improving ferrules and fixings paved the way to establishing modern brush designs. Hamilton is now part of Orkla House Care UK and remains dedicated to quality, continuously adapting their products to match advancements in paint technology.

So, with water-based formulations, their range now adapts to the consistency of the paint flow. Clean Edge now replaces natural bristles to ensure smooth application and coverage, especially with thicker paint. While Max Stroke provides controlled paint release and a perfect finish, ideal for thinner paints.

We got to see firsthand the rigorous testing that ensures the quality of each brush measures up when using different paint formulations, alongside experienced decorating professionals who got to try out the brushes and check

Perfection range fulfils the needs of discerning painting and decorating professionals. It's a comprehensive portfolio of brushes, rollers, and tools for all applications, surfaces, and paints. For brushes, alongside traditional natural bristle, Hamilton developed innovative synthetic filaments designed for perfect finishes with today's paints. Their best-selling rollers use high-quality manufacturing processes, with fabrics chosen based on extensive testing. They're thermobonded to prevent unwinding, offer minimal spatter, and are easy to clean. Hamiltons highest quality decorating tools are built to last, aiding in surface preparation, protection, finish, and clean-up.

how they performed. Although trade brand secrecy prevents us from revealing everything, we can confirm that their testing regime is rigorous!

On-site, they also manufacture the much loved ‘hammy’ roller, which definitely rolls off the production line with 50,000 manufactured per day. Every batch undergoes thorough quality checks at various production stages before being labelled and prepared for delivery. All this happens each and every working day from their premises in Bromsgrove.

It’s great to see a British brand with such a heritage and experience in manufacturing decorating tools. Every employee is dedicated to fostering innovation and ensuring the production of high-quality decorating tools. So, Hamilton Decorating Tools continues to build on its rich history. At the core is their dedication to the values of quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction that have stood the test of time.

Hamilton Decorating Tools remains committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. Their legacy of producing top-notch decorating tools is a testament to their unwavering dedication to quality.

Prestige range allows painters and decorators to select from a distinctive range of great quality tools. This selection of brushes, rollers, tools, and accessories fulfils all decorating needs, allowing users to stock up their toolkits. Brushes combine the best materials with quality manufacturing, design innovation, and comfort, ensuring great pick-up, release, and a top-quality finish. Roller fabrics are thermobonded to the core, preventing unwinding, with minimal spatter, easy cleaning, and great coverage. This selection of decorating tools and accessories combines high quality, practicality, and comfortable use, featuring soft-grip handles, heavy-duty protection, and paint sundries.

Following extensive research into today's users, Hamilton discovered a large sector of multi-skilled trades seeking readily available, high-quality decorating tools. With 90% naming Hamilton as an aspirational, trusted brand, we've made dreams reality. Hamilton For the Trade offers a simple range providing easy choice, including brushes, sleeves, frames, roller sets, tools, surface protection, and accessories. Brushes combine fine-tipped synthetic filaments and comfortable handles, while rollers give minimal spatter, great coverage, and remain easy to clean. A selection of tools, accessories, and surface protection complete this range, based on much-loved Hamilton know-how.

Clean air for all

Festool is expanding its range with a new air purifier that filters harmful airborne dust from the air. Its compact Systainer format and low weight make it ideal for mobile and stationary applications.

The new Festool SYS-AIR uses a powerful, two-stage filter system to comprehensively clean the air. This means that the smallest dust particles and other pollutants end up in the air purifier, and not in the lungs. This results in less cleaning effort, a cleaner environment and, ultimately, better air quality.

Fine dust particles often settle on surfaces, machines, and the environment. Awareness of clean working with dust extractors has changed a lot in recent years, more and more users appreciate being able to rely on good extraction directly on the power tool.

Despite professional extraction, dust particles are released into the environment during daily operations, particularly in applications that can only be extracted poorly or not at all. With the new air purifier, Festool has created a complete system for the best possible extraction results, both on site and in the workshop. The air purifier filters and cleans the ambient air, this means less cleaning effort, and satisfied enthusiastic customers, especially in mobile applications.

Simply clean – no matter where you are

Festool has designed its new air purifier in the practical, compact Systainer 3 format. Its low weight makes it suitable for both mobile and static use. The new SYS-AIR is also easy to operate and can be regulated in two stages, with a warning light to signal the need to change the filter. If space is limited in the workshop, the practical ceiling bracket offers a safe and simple stationary solution. Thanks to T-LOC, the SYS-AIR can be firmly locked into the ceiling bracket and removed again quickly for mobile use.

Festool has also designed a number of features especially for mobile use: Integration of the air purifier into a dust protection wall, as well as the option to connect several SYS-AIR air purifiers in series in large rooms.

Purified air

for your health

Fine, invisible airborne dust remains in the air despite optimal extraction, especially when sanding, drilling, or sawing. With a volume flow of up to 680m3/h, the powerful SYS-AIR air purifier ensures high circulation.

A special main TripleV filter is available in dust class M and H, and creates a particularly large filter surface. This means the filter takes longer to become clogged, and therefore lasts longer.

Optimal dust collection with dust protection wall

A dust protection wall in conjunction with a construction air purifier is suitable for preventing dust and dirt from getting outside the work area. A vacuum is generated, dust is guided out of the room in a targeted manner and the air quality in the work area is consequently improved. An added advantage is that the surrounding rooms remain free of dust.

A flexible, six-metre-long hose can be positioned directly at the dust source for targeted collection, reducing the dispersion of dust particles.

Up to six air purifiers can be connected in series to increase the circulation in large rooms.

Reducing preparation SPEEDING UP YOUR JOBS

We all know a huge part of painting and decorating is getting the prep right. Here, Barnaby Jones from Valspar Trade delves into how innovations in coating formulations can make this process more efficient...

Delivering a high-quality finish takes far more than just putting some paint on the wall. In fact, the preparation stage is just as critical as applying the topcoat itself, helping to provide a smooth, clean surface for the paint to adhere to, as well as a brilliant colour and finish.

There have long been a wide range of products available, including primers, knot blockers and undercoats, each having its own role.

Primers provide a strong base for your undercoat or topcoat to adhere to, a knot blocker has been specifically developed for wood applications, helping to prevent seepage from knots in the wood and minimise discolouration of final finishes. Finally, undercoats are formulated to provide the best possible surface for the desired topcoat, promoting good adhesion and helping to achieve a brighter and truer colour.

So it’s actually possible that you may have up to three different products to apply before you can even begin with the topcoat, making for time-consuming preparation. Fortunately, thanks to new technology and coating formulations, there are products available that can tackle the required preparation in just one coat, saving you both time and money. Combined primers and undercoats for example, allow you to block out bold colours and backgrounds, as well as providing great adhesion for the topcoats. New technologies have also allowed for them to be tinted, helping with dramatic colour changes and optimal appearance for vivid shades.

Maybe you’re looking to tackle wooden surfaces, such as skirting boards, door frames or bannisters. With our dedicated research and development

team, we’ve developed formulations that also incorporate knot blocker capabilities to provide a smooth and reliable substrate, that can also help to prevent cracking, peeling or bleed through from the wood knots.

When the exterior season is in full swing, painting metal fences, gates or pipes can be common jobs, made trickier with the presence of rust. However, with the rise of ‘direct to metal’ paint formulations, this can be a thing of the past, able to be applied directly to rusted metal surfaces without the need for primer.

At Valspar Trade, our focus is on making life easier for the applier. With a dedicated research and development team, we’re proud to offer an expertly formulated range of high-quality trade essentials. Our Primer and Undercoat, Knot Block Wood Primer & Undercoat and Direct to Wood & Metal paint products combine multiple performance features into one product, ensuring you can deliver the perfect finish, every time.

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The Decorator –Autumn 2024

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