Painting and Decorating 22
A painter and decorator works in the commercial and public sectors and is responsible for the external and internal appearance of a building and its protection from water, rust, mould and insects. There is a direct relationship between the nature and quality of the service required and the payment made by the client. Therefore the painter and decorator has a continuing responsibility to work professionally and interactively with the client in order to give satisfaction and thus maintain and grow the business. Painting and decorating is closely associated with other parts of the construction industry, and with the many products that support it.
The painter and decorator works internally and externally in very diverse environments, for example in companies, factories, schools, hotels, the homes of clients and on building sites in all weather conditions. He or she may offer a range of services, including interpreting client requirements/drawings, advising on designs/colours, painting, spraying, decorative coatings, wallpapering, gilding and sign writing to a high standard.
Work organization and self-management, communication and interpersonal skills, problem solving, innovation, creativity, and the ability to prepare surfaces thoroughly with meticulous care and work accurately are the universal attributes of the outstanding painter and decorator. In a mobile labour market, the painter and decorator may work in teams, or alone, or in both from time to time.
Whatever the structure of the work, the trained and experienced painter and decorator takes on a high level of personal responsibility and autonomy. From carefully determining the requirements of the client, working safely and tidily, exceptional planning and scheduling, precision and attention to detail to the fine gilding of objects and finishing of furniture, every process matters and mistakes are largely irreversible and costly.
With the international mobility of people, the painter and decorator faces rapidly expanding opportunities and challenges. For the talented painter and decorator there are many commercial and international opportunities; however these carry with them the need to understand and work with diverse cultures, trends and fashions. The diversity of skills associated with painting and decorating is therefore likely to expand.
Required skills
Creativity, practical skills, critical thinking, flexibility/adaptability, proactive work attitude, self motivation, time management, work ethics skills, customer service and client relationship skills
Career info
The painting and decorating professional is responsible for the external and internal appearance of a building and its protection from water, rust, mould, and insects. Building sites and types are highly varied, including offices, factories, schools, hotels, and private homes in all settings and climates.
They will possess a range of skills, involving communication, creativity, innovation, and problem solving; and may offer a range of services, including interpreting client requirements and drawings, advising on designs/colours, painting, spraying, decorative coatings, wallpapering, gilding, and sign writing.
Technically speaking, the painter decorator must have skills in planning and scheduling; have the ability to prepare surfaces thoroughly and carefully; and keep a commitment to working safely and tidily with an attention to detail.
At the Competition
The Competitor is judged on:
- Working environment
- Paint panelled door (in two colours) and frame
- Drawing, setting out
- Design
- Wallpaper application
- Lettering application
- Decorative techniques
- Time management
- Working arrangement
- Efficiency