The official journal of the Painting and Decorating Association • Spring 2025
Rose of Jericho Casein Bound Limewash applied to slurried walls at 8½ Dowgate Hill, London.
Hello everyone,
I hope you’re keeping well. It seems to have been an exceptionally long, cold and dark winter but it’s good to see the first signs of spring now upon us. Hopefully, warmer and lighter days are approaching. We would love a spell of favourable weather for those outside contracts that you may have already scheduled. The October 2024 Budget set out ambitious plans for UK economic growth over the next five years. Part of the cost of fulfilling those plans landed at the door of businesses, in the form of higher employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs). From April 2025, employers’ NICs will increase from 13.8% to 15% and the earnings threshold will fall from £9,100 to £5,000. As a result, businesses of all sizes are bracing themselves for higher costs but for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) the increases may feel particularly acute. There have been suggestions that SMEs might consider reducing their benefits-spend to offset growing NIC bills, but they will still need to be able to attract and retain talented employees through attractive benefits packages alongside their salary.
I recently visited Ali and Matthew Lawrence from Prime Finish Decorating, based in Poole, Dorset who were the winners in the Early Bird Membership payment prize draw. I presented them with a superb Graco GX19 Electric Airless Sprayer and I’m sure they will get many years use from it in their business. Thank you to all Members took part in this and of course, the PDA extends a big thank you to Andy and Callum at Graco for their generous sponsorship.
At this time of the year, our group of Clerks of Works judges are out and about across the country inspecting the shortlisted projects across seven categories as part of the PDA Premier Trophy Awards. We received 104 entries this year, so the deliberations for the judges have been much more difficult in the initial round of shortlisting. This year’s awards take place on 3 July at the prestigious Plasterers’ Livery Hall. I wish the very best of luck to those who will be in the running to join me on stage in July to receive their awards. We are pleased to announce that Johnstone’s Trade are the main sponsors of the Premier Trophy Awards 2025.
In March, our Apprentice of the Year competition started up in Glasgow, where we had 21 entrants. It was a great start to the five regional heats taking place around the country. For the first time ever, we look forward to hosting a heat in North Wales at Coleg Llandrillo, Rhos-on-Sea. The remaining regional heats will take place at Accrington & Rossendale College, South & City College, Birmingham, and North Kent College. The grand final including all the regional finalists will take place at Doncaster College at the end of May. A big thanks goes to Purdy for being the main sponsor of the Apprentice competition. You may have returned the survey we sent at the start of the year concerning your views and thoughts on improving the PDA website. The responses have been considered, and various sections of the site will be re-worked in the coming weeks.
Finally, a reminder to those Members who are still to pay their 2025 subscriptions, to do this as soon as possible, so we can continue to deliver our services and support. If you have any issues paying the amount in full, please contact Denice Harper, our Membership Services Manager, who will be happy to discuss extended payment terms with you. You can email her at denice@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk or call 024 7635 3776 Monday to Friday.
Neil Ogilvie
Chief Executive
neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk
Painting & Decorating Association
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
Spring 2025 — Volume 94 No 1
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
NEIL ACCEPTS UNIEP ROLE
PDA CEO NEIL Ogilvie has been appointed as the First Vice President of an organisation that brings together trade bodies for the sector from across Europe. Neil accepted the appointment at the International Association of Painting Contractors (UNIEP) General Assembly in December.
Representing more than 60,000 businesses through its members and supporters across 15 European countries, UNIEP protects the interests of the painting sector as well as ensuring a qualified future for the trade through focus on the improvement of skills and competencies.
Neil Ogilvie said, “Having been a member of the Board at UNIEP for the last six years, I’m very aware of the excellent work the organisation does in representing the interests of the sector at an international level.
“I’m incredibly proud to have been invited to take on this role and look forward to continuing to work closely with colleagues across Europe as a collective voice for professional painters and decorators.”
The PDA has acted as a collective voice for painters and decorators since 1894, lobbying on their behalf at a national level and hosting a series of key events that showcase the skill and professionalism of painters and decorators throughout the year.
APPRENTICE HEATS GET UNDERWAY
The Apprentice of the Year competition, the nationwide challenge for painting and decorating apprentices, got underway in March. It was north to Glasgow City College for the first of the five heats. This is the third year the college has hosted the event under the supervision of Michael McEwan, a P&D lecturer.
The competition saw 21 talented apprentices from Scotland and Northern England, all eager to display their skills in a rigorous painting challenge. The competition judges are PDA Chief Executive Neil Ogilvie and Andrew Davis of the Association of Painting Craft Teachers (APCT).
With four more heats to go, the anticipation builds towards the grand finale and then the overall winners will be announced at the Premier Trophy Awards in July.
Thanks go to Purdy, the main apprentice sponsor who gave all competitors a box brush set on completion of the challenge and the Premier Trophy Awards main sponsor for 2025 Johnstone’s Trade, who supplied the paint. 2025 marks 36 years of the Premier Trophy Awards Competition, which goes from strength to strength each year.
Good luck to all the apprentices taking part in the next heats. There will be full coverage of the competition in the summer edition of The Decorator
EARLY BIRDS GET THEIR ‘WORM’
Well done to Matt and Ali Lawrence from Prime Finish and Decorating in Poole, Dorset who won the Graco Spray Machine in the The Early Bird Prize Draw. Plus, a big shout out to PDA Associate Partner Graco who supplied the machine.
CEO Neil Ogilvie went down to hand over the new piece of equipment in person, Ali said, “We’re absolutely thrilled to have won a Graco spray machine in the recent prize draw! A huge thank you to the PDA for the opportunity and to Graco for such an incredible prize. This will be a fantastic addition to our kit, helping us to keep delivering top-quality finishes for our lovely customers.”
The GX 19 is described as ‘an airless sprayer that ticks all the boxes for small residential painting and repainting jobs. It combines the GX track record with an affordable price, making airless spraying the logical choice for even those small projects like painting interior walls and ceilings. The GX 19 is the affordable first step into professional airless spraying or the perfect addition to a fleet of heavy-duty units.’
ANTHONY PAINTS GREEN
Anthony Wade of Sprayform Painting and Decorating Ltd has been a decorator for more than 30 years, and began to focus on the environmental impact of his business after making the switch to water-based coatings many years ago.
A Member of the PDA’s sustainability initiative, Paint Green, he has been taking further strides including a water filtration system of his own invention.
Now, Anthony, whose business has won six industry awards over the years, including the Premier Trophy Award for Small Contractor in 2024, is sharing his journey with fellow painters and decorators across the UK.
Read Anthony ’s story at https://tinyurl.com/PDAGreen
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Megan
Welcome TO THE ASSOCIATION...
AS THE UK’s SSIP accreditation scheme of choice, Smas are experts in helping businesses streamline their compliance and meet Health & Safety standards.
Their team of in-house assessors are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. From making sure you have the right documentation to helping you meet prequalification requirements; they take the administrative burden off your shoulders. By providing unrivalled in-house support and speedy turnaround times, they’ll get your business where it needs to be.
The Smas online portal keeps everything in one place, making it quick and easy to spot compliance gaps and upskill your team through our CITB-approved training courses. You’ll also become listed on their online portal and capture the attention of some of the biggest construction names, helping you secure your next big tender.
Why choose Smas Worksafe?
• Achieve accreditation in just one day
• Meet compliance requirements
• Free, unlimited assessment reviews from in-house experts
• Access their online portal
• Become visible for tendering opportunities
Discover how Smas Worksafe can help drive your business forward. Visit their website today or give them a call on 01752 280822 to explore how they can help you gain the credibility and recognition you deserve.
www.smasltd.com
FOR OVER 45 years, INDASA has been supplying abrasives materials and consumable products for the UK’s professional decorative trades.
Their manufacturing plant is based in Aveiro, Portugal, and a recent multi-million Euro investment has turned the site into one of the most modern production facilities in Europe for coated abrasive technology.
It’s worth noting that not all abrasives, tapes and decorative consumables are the same – and choosing the right product for your job will not only help speed up your job but also give the required premium finish.
Preparation is the key to successful decorating and INDASA products can help you create that perfect finish. That’s why they’ve compiled product and process guides to provide you with essential know-how.
www.indasa-abrasives.com
Welcome TO THE ASSOCIATION...
LIKE PROFESSIONAL TRADESPEOPLE, HB42 is passionate about quality. HB42 only produces the Ultimate when it comes to decorating products, investing in the latest technologies to provide a range of high performing coatings, fillers, adhesives, sealants, and much more.
Since 2013, HB42 has been focused on making products that meet the professional standard in terms of strength, longevity, speed, and ease of use, as well as being kinder to our health and the environment. HB42 also identified that there was a demand from tradespeople for these premium products to be sensibly priced.
HB stands for the company that created the brand, Hilton Banks Ltd, and 42 stands for the Ultimate Answer to everything (Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy ). Hilton Banks is a family business, with the Banks name going back six generations. With over 175 years of experience, the current Directors are brother and sister, Charlie & Scarlet and Andy Butler.
Starting with the Award-winning HB42 Ultimate Sealant & Adhesive, the range has grown rapidly over 12 years with the expansion of coatings, fillers, waterproofing, adhesives, tools and more, including the best-selling, high acclaimed, Max-Flex Decorators Caulk.
For more information on the range, please visit their website or call 020 8979 8284
CELEBRATING WOMEN IN P&D
FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’s Day on 8 March, the PDA featured some of the growing number of females working in the painting and decorating sector at different levels, and across the different areas of the business.
The Association is encouraged to see more women in the sector and there is definite uptick in the number of female apprentices taking part in the competitions. With skills shortages in the sector there is a definite need to encourage both males and females into painting and decorating.
Joanne Gualda, Group Marketing Director, at Bagnalls said, “I get to work with the most amazing people who deliver quality painting projects across the whole of the UK, from painting football stadia to decorating heritage properties.
As a marketeer I am lucky to work with the leading paint manufacturers and how they are driving environmental improvements through the paints they produce. I would personally encourage any young woman to check out the career options available, there are so many diverse roles and there really are no barriers to what can be achieved if you work hard and enjoy what you do.”
Recalling her motivation for choosing a career in painting and decorating, Holly Duffy (pictured left), apprentice at Spain Building and Maintenance said, “The reason I chose painting and decorating was because I have always enjoyed art and being creative, I also knew I wanted a trade behind me as it secured my career in the future.
“Being an apprentice has been an amazing journey so far. I have travelled abroad to do a humanitarian repaint of a primary school in Slovenia with the PDA. I really value being part of the painting and decorating sector and becoming an apprentice was the best decision I could have made.”
While PDA Member Jessica Walters (pictured right) of RESTORE outlined, “This is my third career, following time as a scriptwriter, midwife, and health visitor.
“Painting and decorating is a physical craft where I can see change, create change, and be part of a positive journey for my clients by bringing homes back to life.
“I have a deep love for restoration, embracing old design, researching & nurturing it, and making it live again. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, I feel both proud and unique. I deeply admire the craftsmen I work alongside, because this work is hard graft, but when done with love and perfection too, the result is real art and that’s what I am all about.” www.internationalwomensday.com
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ADVICE for our Members
‘ALARMING’ LACK OF AWARENESS ON ASBESTOS DANGER
THE BRITISH SAFETY Council has reported that almost half of UK tradespeople view asbestos as a problem of the past and more than a quarter have not followed the correct removal procedures when they have encountered the deadly material, according to new research.
A survey of 500 tradespeople, commissioned by training provider High Speed Training and conducted in September 2024, found that 49% of respondents felt that asbestos was a problem associated with the past. A further 50% of those surveyed said that asbestos had become less of a concern the longer they had spent in their trades, with 26% of respondents stating that they had not followed the correct procedures to remove asbestos when they came across it.
Asbestos-related diseases claim the lives of around 5,000 people a year in the UK and the carcinogenic material is the greatest cause of work-related deaths,
according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). When asbestos is disturbed, invisible fibres are released which, when inhaled, can cause incurable cancers such as mesothelioma to develop decades later.
Despite being banned almost 25 years ago, it is estimated that asbestos is still present in up to 1.5 million buildings across the UK. Earlier this year, HSE launched a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos, to run alongside its Asbestos and You campaign, designed to act as a guide to tradespeople about the risks of asbestos and the legal responsibilities when it comes to handling the material.
But that message is still not getting through, 55% of those surveyed by High Speed Training either disagreed with or were unaware of the fact that asbestos is the biggest workplace killer. Of the 26% of respondents who said they had not followed the correct asbestos-removal procedures, 55% said it was too expensive to do so while more than a quarter said their boss or supervisor had told them to get rid of the material themselves. 46% of those surveyed said they believed that asbestos training was insufficient.
Alongside the tradespeople survey, 500 members of the public were asked about their attitudes towards asbestos. Almost 70% of respondents said they had never been concerned about asbestos at home or in the workplace.
The findings have prompted Mesothelioma UK, High Speed Training and Independent Asbestos Training Providers (IATP) to write a joint letter to UK education secretary Bridget Phillipson, urging the Department for Education to make asbestos awareness training compulsory for the next generation of tradespeople.
“The purpose of this open letter is to ensure that those entering into careers that have the highest chances of encountering [asbestos] have all the necessary information embedded into their education, so that they can protect themselves and those around them, now and in the future,” said Dr Richard Anderson, head of learning and development at High Speed Training.
“This is a public interest issue and we’re asking for the relevant government body to do its part in aiding the future safety of everyone that could be impacted.”
www.britsafe.org
NEW NEONATAL CARE LEAVE ENTITLEMENT
FROM 6 APRIL 2025, employees in England, Scotland, and Wales have a new legal entitlement to neonatal care leave where their child requires neonatal care following their birth. This new legislation aims to support parents whose babies require neonatal care, allowing them to focus on their child’s health without the added concern of work obligations. Proposals to introduce neonatal care leave in Northern Ireland, which largely mirror the new statutory entitlement in Great Britain, have not yet been introduced.
When do employees qualify for neonatal care leave?
The entitlement applies to parents of babies born on or after 6 April 2025, including biological parents, adoptive parents, intended parents in surrogacy arrangements, and partners of the baby’s mother. This is provided they have or expect to have responsibility for the child’s upbringing and where the baby requires neonatal care.
The right to take leave is a ‘day one’ right, meaning employees have no minimum period of service to qualify for taking the leave.
The right to leave applies to parents where their baby is admitted for neonatal care within 28 days of birth and has a continuous stay in hospital of at least seven full days. Neonatal care includes medical care received in a hospital, medical care received elsewhere following discharge under the direction of a consultant, ongoing visits from healthcare professionals arranged by the hospital where they were an inpatient and palliative or end-of-life care.
What is the leave entitlement?
Eligible parents can take up to 12 weeks of neonatal care leave per affected child, depending on how long the baby is receiving neonatal care. In cases of twins or other multiple births, the leave is capped at 12 weeks in total. The leave can be taken at any point within 68 weeks following the child’s birth. As parents may typically already be taking maternity or paternity leave while their baby is receiving neonatal care in hospital.
What is the pay entitlement?
To qualify for pay during the leave, employees must have at least 26 weeks of continuous service with their employer by the end of the 15th week before the expected week of childbirth and earn on average at least £123 per week. The pay rate aligns with other statutory entitlements, which is £187.18 per week for leave periods from 6 April 2025.
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 https://businesshub.uk.markel.com
PDA ASSOCIATE PARTNER Mylands has been granted use of the Royal Warrant by His Majesty The King. Royal Warrants are awarded to companies who have regularly supplied goods or services to the Royal Household. This prestigious endorsement is a recognition of Mylands’ expert craftsmanship and dedicated team. It reaffirms its
BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT
MYLANDS GRANTED USE OF THE ROYAL WARRANT
commitment to excellence, craftsmanship and pioneering dedication to sustainable practices, continuing a legacy of quality that dates back to the company’s founding 140 years ago in 1884.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II first granted a Royal Warrant to Mylands in 1985 In recognition of its quality polishes, stains and varnishes. Mylands products have since been supplied to the Royal Household and palaces over the past 40 years.
Dominic Myland, fourth-generation owner and CEO of Mylands commented, “We are proud and delighted that our Royal Warrant has been renewed by His Majesty The King. It is a privilege to supply products to the Royal Household. As Britain’s oldest paint manufacturer, we take great pride in preserving excellent craftsmanship whilst pursuing product innovation to manufacture paint and polishes that are more sustainable without compromising on quality. It is wonderful for our efforts to be recognised. We will continue striving for excellence in each product we craft.”
the UK, as well as film and television sets across the globe. The granting of the Royal Warrant marks a proud milestone in the company’s history as it celebrates 140 years of manufacturing as a family business.
By expertly crafting paints and polishes with the finest ingredients at its London factory, Mylands has become synonymous with British heritage and quality.
The company’s paints and finishes have graced the walls of some of the most iconic buildings and homes in
Looking forward to 2025, Mylands is excited to build relationships with fellow Royal Warrant holders and support members of QEST (the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust), a charity supporting British craftsmanship for which Dominic Myland is a mentor.
To showcase its expertise, Mylands has now opened its factory showroom, located in West Norwood and will soon offer factory tours and workshops.
HMG NOMINATED FOR TWO FAMILY BUSINESS AWARDS
HMG Paints, an Associate Partner of the Painting and Decorating Association, has been shortlisted for two prestigious awards at the National Family Business Awards 2025. HMG are finalists for the North and Northern Ireland Family Business of the Year award.
Furthermore, HMG Paints has been nominated for the People’s Choice Award (North and Northern Ireland). The award is one of the most coveted of the event as it is voted for by the public, those who are at the forefront of receiving and reviewing a company’s service.
The nominations follow HMG’s previous success at the awards in 2023, in which the company was honoured with the Manufacturing Family Business of the Year title. As the company celebrates its 95th anniversary, these nominations further solidify HMG’s position as a proud Manchester based family business and leader within the coatings industry.
Speaking on the event, Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of Family Business United said, “Family firms are the engine room of the national economy, and these awards celebrate all their achievements. This is always a fantastic evening where the family
business community comes together to celebrate the very best of British family firms. All our winners are fantastic examples of great British family firms, and it is a real honour to host these awards and celebrate with them.”
Speaking on HMG’s nominations, Marketing Manager Paddy Dyson said, “Being nominated for the People’s Choice Award is a great honour and recognition of the efforts of everyone at HMG. We’re looking forward to the event and celebrating the work family businesses do across the UK, and hopefully it’s a successful night for us too and we hope our extended community can help us to the People’s Choice Award by casting their vote.”
HMG will also be considered for the national categories, as well as special awards, including Innovation, Sustainability, and Community Involvement. All entries will also compete for the title of Supreme Family Business of the Year. The event winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Evening on 18 June 2025 at The Royal Geographical Society in South Kensington, London. HMG look forward to celebrating with so many inspirational family businesses.
Vote online at https://tinyurl.com/FBUAwards
YORKSHIRE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
IT WAS A jubilant evening for Bagnalls at the TheBusinessDesk.com Awards held in February. The company scooped the Yorkshire Employer of the Year award, sponsored by Tudor International Freight Group Marketing Director, Joanne Gualda said, “People are at the core of our business so this award celebrates the contribution made by every individual who works
for Bagnalls. Thank you to all the judges who took the time out of their busy schedules to evaluate all the fantastic Yorkshire businesses who entered, and to all the sponsors who supported such an outstanding evening!” Bagnalls was established in Yorkshire in 1875 and will be marking their 150th anniversary this year, so it’s a great accolade for this successful, long-established business.
Group Managing Director, Stephen Bagnall commented, “We are absolutely thrilled to have won Employer of the Year at the Yorkshire Business of The Year Awards 2025
This recognition is a true testament to the dedication, passion, and commitment of every single member of the Bagnalls team.
“As we scale up our celebrations for our 150th anniversary, this award couldn’t have come at a better time; it is a potent reminder of the culture, values, and people that make our business so special. I would like to extend a huge thank you to my incredible colleagues whose hard work and belief in our shared vision made this achievement possible. This award belongs to all of you!”
ROYAL WARRANT AWARDED TO PDA MEMBER FIRM
A. C. BECK & SON, A renowned name in the painting and decorating industry, have announced that they have been awarded the prestigious Royal Warrant by His Majesty the King for its exceptional services in painting and decorating. This significant honour recognises the company’s long-standing commitment to excellence, craftsmanship, and exceptional service, as well as its dedication to quality, health and safety, and sustainability.
Established over 70 years ago, A. C. Beck & Son has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality painting and decorating services to both residential and commercial clients. The company has built its reputation on precision, skill, and attention to detail, transforming a wide range of properties with expert craftsmanship. Throughout its decades of service, A. C. Beck & Son has remained focused on maintaining the highest standards of quality, ensuring the safety and well-being of its workforce, and implementing sustainable practices in its operations.
A. C. Beck & Son’s portfolio includes a number of prestigious and high-profile projects, both in the UK and abroad. The company has worked on iconic landmarks such as Harrods, the New American Embassy, Battersea Power Station, and the Bank of England Its expertise has also been showcased at Oxford University and various Royal Palaces, where it has completed detailed and complex projects to preserve the institution’s rich history. Additionally, A. C. Beck & Son’s international reach includes significant works abroad, including Euro Disney in France and Planet Hollywood in locations such as London, Amsterdam and Berlin, further cementing its reputation for excellence across the globe.
The Royal Warrant, granted by His Majesty the King, is a distinguished mark of recognition awarded to companies that have provided goods or services to the Royal Household for a minimum of five years. A. C. Beck & Son’s selection for this honour reflects its ongoing dedication to delivering exceptional results while upholding the values of quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.
“We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to receive the Royal Warrant from His Majesty the King,” said Luke Beck, Managing Director of A. C. Beck & Son
“This recognition is a reflection of decades of hard work, passion for our craft, and a commitment to the values that matter most to us: delivering quality work, maintaining rigorous health and safety standards, and promoting sustainability in all our projects.
It’s a privilege to have been able to serve the Royal Household, and we are excited to continue our tradition of excellence and innovation in every project we undertake.”
At A. C. Beck & Son, the company places the highest importance on health and safety, ensuring that all staff are fully trained and adhere to the strictest safety guidelines. Furthermore, the company is committed to sustainability, continually exploring ways to minimize its environmental footprint through the use of eco-friendly materials, energyefficient practices, and waste reduction strategies.
As a recipient of the Royal Warrant, A. C. Beck & Son joins an elite group of businesses that have earned this prestigious distinction, further solidifying its reputation as one of the most trusted and respected names in the industry.
For further information or to inquire about A. C. Beck & Son’s services, please visit www.acbeck.co.uk
The start of the 2024/25 academic year saw Valspar Trade hit the road on its College Tour, delivering the award-winning Colour Workshop to colleges across the UK.
ON TOUR WITH VALSPAR TRADE
FIRST LAUNCHED IN 2021, Valspar Trade’s College Tour features a Colour Workshop, delivered by the college’s local Trade Sales Specialist to NVQ students. Building on this success for the 2024/25 academic year, Valspar Trade partnered with ten colleges across the UK, offering a wide package of support for the students and staff.
With achieving the perfect colour just as important as the perfect finish, it can have a real impact on how an interior space is used and experienced. The Colour Workshop provided students with a unique insight into paint and the use of colour, from colour psychology and how to achieve a successful colour scheme to colour mixing.
Also new for this year, Valspar Trade has donated £500 to each college for an initiative of their choosing, for the benefit of students and lecturers. So far, the donations have been put towards everything from advanced decorating tools and materials to fun student murals and outdoor furniture to help create an area of relaxation and reflection.
Hands-on learning
While the morning session was dedicated to colour theory, the afternoon was all about getting hands-on! A practical session, students got to try out a range of Valspar Trade
We were delighted to welcome Valspar Trade to our college. We like to get guest speakers in throughout the year, it helps to make the learning experience more realistic and allows the students to get additional insight into their prospective industry. It was a brilliant day and gave the students something really valuable to take away, both in terms of learning more about colour and Valspar Trade – Riverside College Widnes & Runcorn.
products, including Tough Matt, Vinyl Matt and Direct to Wood & Metal.
While theory is important, gaining practical experience is crucial in developing their technical skills and confidence, as well as seeing first-hand how different products flow and apply. Everyone will have a personal preference and a key part of discovering this is to try out a range of paints and tools.
Feedback
The College Tour has continued to be a resounding success, with both lecturers and students praising the sessions for being engaging and insightful.
Megan Talbot, Lecturer at Accrington and Rossendale College said, “The workshop was brilliant, all the learners and apprentices really enjoyed it, as did the lecturing team!
“Terry was great and really worked with the students to make the whole session fun and interesting. We were also in awe of the Valspar Trade products, I was already a big fan of them as I used them during my own apprenticeship, but the session had us all converted. We’ll definitely be looking to organise the same session for our new students in September.”
Lincoln College were delighted to welcome Valspar Trade to their college for a thoroughly enjoyable session. They had a mixed group of full-time learners and apprentices who attended, and the feedback received from all of them was extremely positive. All the students found the session really informative and the tutors even learned something new!
Supporting young decorators
All of this said, the College Tour goes deeper than talking about colour. The aging workforce in the painting and decorating industry is a challenge that we are all aware of. As such, engaging with the younger generation and
passing on this industry knowledge is so important, helping to bridge the skills gap and ensure a steady flow of new talent.
Engaging with students from the very beginning of their careers can also have a positive impact further down the line, helping to foster brand loyalty and trust, as well as build those initial relationships. Valspar Trade’s TSS’s provide a UK-wide network of ground support, with the College Tour the first step on this path of communication.
The Valspar Trade team explained a lot of new things to me about colour and how different colours can work together or against each other, depending on the environment.
I’ve learned about how many different colours Valspar Trade can mix, with the ability to essentially match any shade you can see, which I found really interesting. If you can match any colour, just think about all the different opportunities you can have!
P&Dnews
SHOW HEADING FOR A FULL HOUSE!
THE UK’S NUMBER one show for professional painters and decorators will be returning to the CBS Arena in Coventry this November after a runaway success in 2024. The 2025 National Painting and Decorating Show has already sold 70% of the stands for 2025 with 10 months still to go.
More than 3,000 visitors are again expected, drawn by the action-packed two days featuring new product launches, practical demonstrations, fantastic show-only deals, fun competitions, raffles and prize draws, hands-on trials and free samples from an array of the major manufacturers from the UK, Europe and North America. The event is a showcase for new products as well as proven best sellers. Stockists will
tempt the professional visitor with attractive discounts from 100 stands packed with a wide selection of tools, ancillaries and workday essentials.
Two Products in Practice demonstration areas located in the heart of the exhibition hall will feature a continuous programme of 30-minute presentations by experts covering a myriad of topics such as preparation and finishing tips, brush and roller techniques, abrasives innovations, spray demonstrations, new decorative effects, timber repair and much, much more.
It's a great day out that the professional, and their business, cannot afford to miss so pre-register today for your FREE ticket at www.paintshow.co.uk
E ? Y FASTER WORK ES S
R EC YC LI NG GOES ON THANKS TO HMG
A NORTH DEVON environmental and recycling centre has been able to keep functioning because a revolutionary process from HMG Paints for treating rust and lead contamination, where previously painted structural steel was showing signs of corrosion and tests revealed lead to be present in previously applied coatings.
One option would have been to shot blast the rusted areas and completely remove of existing and previous coatings. This would have required a complete shut down of the affected part of the centre, disrupting its recycling function and adding considerable cost to the remediation work.
Isca Decorating Company received detailed technical advice from HMG Paints, who manufacture a suite of
products able to deal with just such an issue, and products for the job were supplied by decorators’ merchants Rabart in Plymouth.
A first degreasing was carried out using a good quality water-based foaming degreaser, followed with application of HMG’s solvent degreaser 2801.
Next, areas showing rust were treated with HMG Ferrozinc Rust Convertor, which is brushed on as a white coating and then turns navy/black indicating that the rust has been completely neutralised. Lead contaminated
areas to be overpainted were then primed with HMG’s BDX Anti Corrosive Primer and a topcoat of HMG C71 Speedline which gives a tough, hardwearing finish.
Lee Perrott at Isca said, “This is the first project where we have used the full system. It is very easy to use and apply, similar to standard undercoats and gloss systems. The C71 Speedline topcoat covers particularly well and looks very nice in the satin finish. We will certainly be using and recommending it for future use.”
https://shop.hmgpaint.com/
NEW STORE FOR PERTH
THE PAINT SHED, which is headquartered in Stirling, sells a wide range of trade paints, designer paints and accessories to both independent painters and decorators and retail consumers via its website and through its network of stores across Scotland and the North of England.
Managing Director of The Paint Shed, Michael Rolland, commented on the Perth store opening, “The Paint Shed is delighted to be opening our brand-new store in Perth. Over the last decade we have added stores in locations all across Scotland and Northern England where we think customers can benefit from our multi-brand offering, with everything they need under one roof.
“Perth perfectly connects our store network across Scotland allowing local customers to get everything they need for their project or job within 24 hours. With the new Cross Tay link road (CTLR) coming to fruition, we believe our location at Inveralmond will be accessible and convenient for Perthshire residents.”
The Perth store will be managed by Ilya Timofejev and has had mixing machines installed from leading paint manufacturers including Dulux Trade, Farrow and Ball, Jotun, Benjamin Moore, Zinsser, Osmo, Little Greene and Tikkurila
For further details, visit www.thepaintshed.com
CDC’S LATEST FLEX
AWARD-WINNING POWER tool manufacturer FLEX have launched in 30 Crown Decorating Centres across the UK and online, underscoring a continued commitment to the UK market by FLEX Power Tools, making its extensive range of products available to a wider audience.
The CDC stores will stock five dry wall and decorating power tools from FLEX, and abrasives from the comprehensive FLEX Power Tools catalogue. A more extensive range of FLEX products will be available online via the Crown Decorating Centres website.
Leading the charge is the GE 6 R carbon composite wall and ceiling sander, the lightest Giraffe of all time from FLEX. Making easy work of even the toughest sanding tasks, the unique, lightweight GE 6 R has been developed by professionals to guarantee perfect results.
In addition, a range of three corded FLEX sanders will be offered – ORE 5-150, OSE 2-80 and ODE 100 . For flawless surfaces on every project, the random orbit, delta and orbital sander are powerful, innovative and durable machines, featuring brushless motors with variable speeds and vibration-free running.
Every FLEX sander can also be mated to a FLEX or workshop vacuum. The VCE 26 L MC safety vacuum cleaner will also be available to CDC customers, it features a manual filter cleaning system and 25-litre capacity. Handy and compact, this vacuum is easy to use and transport, its high-performance turbine ensures high suction capacity and excellent results, wet or dry.
A BUSY EAST of England vehicle repair specialist has a tough, bright new bodyshop floor, thanks to discovering one of Bradite’s top coatings.
The Bodycentre is a major automotive repair shop in Norwich, handling an average of 60 vehicles weekly for bodywork and structural repairs, paintwork refinishing and a wide range of other treatments.
“After some trouble with other floor products in the past we decided to speak to a local paint supplier, called PaintWell,” says Jake Masters, The Bodycentre’s Digital Marketing Executive. “After much discussion about our previous attempts at doing the floor with no great success, they advised that we use Bradite Floor-it.”
The job was undertaken by a team made up of The Bodycentre’s own staff, including technicians, the general manager and one of the directors.
“The application was very straightforward,” says Jake, adding, “recoat time was exceptional. It took us about a day to prep the floor ready for the product to be applied, but once this was done and all necessary objects were masked up, it took us just under ten hours to apply three
coats. It makes the workshop look so much brighter and cleaner. We are over the moon with the final finish.”
Bradite Floor-it is a single-pack, high performance coating ideal for general shopfloor usage. The waterbased acrylic floor paint has no odour and is suitable for use on suitably prepared concrete, as well as wood, metal or asphalt surfaces. The semi-gloss finish is extremely durable with excellent adhesion. www.bradite.com
THE ULTIMATE FILLER & CAULK NOW AVAILABLE AT LEYLAND SDM
FC1 IS THE all-in-one solution designed to be the go-to product for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. It’s a unique solution for filling, sealing, and caulking in preparation for painting and wallpapering. Created by C-Tec, the renowned innovator and manufacturer of CT1, Britain’s favourite sealant and construction adhesive, FC1 is the revolutionary premium grade decorating product that simplifies the filler and caulking process and provides a versatile, high-performance solution.
London’s trusted trade supplier
Leyland started trading in 1985 with a single store in Central London, focused on supplying local tradespeople as a Specialist Decorators’ Merchants with paints and decorating materials.
Today Leyland is one of London’s most recognisable and trusted trade and DIY suppliers with 35 stores retailing Britain’s favour brands such as Stanley, Ronseal, DeWALT, Milwaukee, and of course C-Tec’s range of sealant and adhesive solutions including CT1, PGB, Multisolve and its brand new MORSEAL.
FC1 is the much sought after addition to Leyland’s range. Manufactured with advanced elastomer technology it has unique features and uncompromising quality including enhanced flexibility, durability and ease of use. Delivering a flawlessly smooth bead, and over paintable in as little as one-hour, FC1 is setting new standards in finishing for painters and decorators. It is the go-to, versatile, time-saving, and cost-effective solution for trade professionals working on every size of project.
For the perfect finish pick up FC1 in your local Leyland store https://leylandsdm.co.uk/amlocator/ For more information visit www.CT1.com
ACCELERATING ACTION IN THE WORKPLACE
AKZONOBEL HAVE ANNOUNCED that it has received the Menopause Friendly Accreditation (MFA), the mark of excellence for menopause at work.
The Menopause Awareness and Activity Programme began in 2021, and was quickly championed by senior leadership and Thrive, AkzoNobel’s wellbeing initiative with eight support networks created by colleagues for colleagues covering topics from mental health support to physical health advice.
Key initiatives include:
• A comprehensive Menopause Guidance Policy
• Menopause awareness training sessions for colleagues and managers
• A lightweight uniform at Dulux Decorator Centres
Nearly 6 million of the UK workforce are experiencing menopause, yet 25% consider quitting their jobs due to their symptoms. Three quarters experience symptoms, however, almost half will not share their symptoms through fear of negative perception.
AkzoNobel has successfully facilitated a cultural shift in the business where colleagues feel confident discussing menopausal symptoms and seeking the necessary support and adjustments.
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2025 marks Purdy’s 100th birthday. Here we spoke to Clara Dursent, Brand Manager at Purdy to learn about the history of the brand and how it plans to celebrate this exciting milestone.
Happy birthday Purdy!
Can you tell us a bit about where Purdy started?
Purdy Brush Company was originally founded on the West Coast of the USA in Portland, Oregon in 1925 by S. Desmond Purdy. He was a seasoned brushmaker at this point and had patented several designs for brushes of all types – even shaving!
His focus was on designing brushes that wouldn’t lose their filaments, pioneering a new method that used a plug to press the filaments into the ferrule, holding them firmly in place.
He handcrafted his first brushes in his garage and ‘Purdy’s “Good” Brushes’, as it was often marketed back then, continues to make all its products by hand in Portland to this day. We mark the handcrafted nature with a sticker signed by the individual brushmaker, on every brush.
How has the brand grown since it was founded a century ago?
The company grew significantly from that first brush, and by the 1940s Purdy Brush Company was selling brushes from coast-to-coast in the USA. Alongside this, a global material shortage during World War Two affected brush production and prompted the industry to develop the roller system, as an alternative method. This system was first patented in the US by Richard Adams, an employee of Sherwin-Williams, which went on to buy Purdy in 2004, bringing the two strands together.
Purdy brushes and rollers first hit the UK market in the early ‘90s. Since then, our product lineup has expanded to include a range of prep and finishing tools, bucket systems, storage solutions and accessories.
Why do you think Purdy’s heritage matters?
Purdy’s heritage is important because it gives customers confidence when they buy. Purdy has always been committed to developing painting tools and accessories designed to make a professional’s job faster, easier and smoother. Back in 1925, Purdy founded on an uncompromising dedication to quality brushes. And today, the same dedication is still evident in every brush, roller, storage solution, scraper and other tools that we make.
Would you like to visit the home of Purdy in Portland, Oregon?
Purdy is offering one lucky winner and a guest the chance to win a seven-night stay at Portland’s 5-Star Ritz Carlton Hotel, plus flights and transfers from a UK or Irish airport
The trip will include a visit to the Purdy factory to meet the brushmakers and make a brush themselves. As well as the grand prize, one entrant will also be selected each month to win a loaded Purdy backpack.
To enter, please visit https://purdy.co.uk/purdy-factory-competition/ where you will be asked why you would love to visit Purdy. The competition closes on the 31 July 2025 at 23:59 (BST) and is only open to over 18s, legal residents of the UK and/or Ireland, currently working (either via employment, self-employment or apprenticeship) as a painter or decorator in the UK or Ireland. Visit the Purdy competition website for full terms and conditions.
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Seen here is the bar area of a £250,000 project to refurbish the Grasmere’s Swan Hotel
The 12-month journey presented challenging site issues, with the DS team applying around 35 different paint and paper finishes.
Borthwick Decorators Ltd
This Category A listed townhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town was redecorated throughout using Johnstone’s Trade paints, with the cupola accessed via fixed scaffold.
DM Decor
A complete kitchen refurbishment – All doors and drawers were removed to prep and sprayed in DM’s workshop with Renner Industrial Coatings 643 Primer and 762 Top Coat. Carcasses were cleaned, sanded and sprayed to match, hinges were even stripped and sprayed in a Matt Black. Worktops were cleaned and fully sanded back before applying Barrettine ArmourFlex Hardwax Oil to provide good protection for many years to come.
Pictures by Ian Wood Photography.
Completed over the course of 17 months, this extensive and prestige project in central London involved a large array of skills and products.
Internally, Johnstone’s Trade Covaplus was used for the majority of walls and ceilings, with Acrylic Eggshell on woodwork, Little Greene Intelligent Matt and Intelligent Eggshell in certain feature areas and even some 23.5ct gold used on the gilding.
Rose of Jericho Casein Bound Limewash was applied to the slurried walls in the vaults for a beautiful, breathable finish.
Outside, Little Greene Masonry Paint, Tom’s Oil Eggshell, and Polyvine Bright Gold paint all came together for an outstanding and imposing finish.
Outstanding work by Joe & Neil
– £100 of vouchers for use at Brewers are now on the way!
CWB Decorators Ltd
Paste-the-wall wallpaper from Swedish brand Borastapeter was hung in this downstairs cloakroom to great effect, with Dulux Trade Diamond Eggshell matched to Howdens Dusk Blue on the lower panelling.
Jessica Walters
Using Repair Care Dry Seal and Dry Fix No.1, window frames with significant decay were repaired before applying a two-tone finish in heritage colours Portland Stone and Juniper Ash, to ensure alignment with the home’s historical character while adhering to conservation guidelines.
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Work life BA L A NCE
Spring is often the busiest time for painters and decorators. People are doing their spring cleans, and it’s reminding them how shabby some parts of their properties are. They look at their exteriors and think they could use some maintenance. There’s the saying, ‘make hay while the sun shines,’ and while spring and summer are great times to blitz through work, with long days and drier weather, it can also be difficult to juggle work and out-of-work commitments. Here are a few tips to balance your work life and personal life...
Ebb and flow
Some prefer working eight hours a day, five days a week. Others like to go all out on a job and then take more time off to relax. We all work differently—find what works best for you. I’m a ‘flat out and chill out’ type, so I can work 60-80 hours a week for a few weeks, then take time off. You don’t need to be extreme, but find your balance and understand the ebb and flow of work and play.
Love your work
‘Find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life’ is some of the best advice I’ve received. If you can shift your attitude toward your work so you genuinely look forward to it, it has a huge impact on how you feel about life. Take pride in what you do, give the best service, be genial and thoughtful so customers love having you around, and practise gratitude for your work, customers, tools, and skills.
Plan your leisure
When you’re swamped with work, especially if you’re behind, it’s easy to think you can’t afford time off. I’ve been there. But planning some downtime and clearly communicating with customers and family that you’re taking it, gives you something to look forward to, even if you love your job. It’s important to take time to spend with loved ones, take time for hobbies, or just chill. Often, during these breaks, we gain new perspectives on life. And as they say, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy
Time management
Managing time is impossible but managing your work and personal activities is crucial. Build buffer time between jobs when possible and try to stay flexible with clients on deadlines. Sometimes you’ll need to work longer hours, but ensure you have rest time afterward. None of us are getting any younger.
Your health
Taking care of your health and safety is essential because nothing derails a good work-life balance more than sickness or injury, I know this to my cost. So take care of yourself, your colleagues, and your equipment. Stay hydrated, minimize exposure to dust and VOCs, take breaks when needed, and stay focused on the job at hand.
Setting boundaries
Setting clear boundaries with yourself and your clients is crucial. Make sure your clients know your work hours, days, and the scope of the project. Clarity reduces stress – uncertainty creates it. Learning to say ‘no’ professionally, politely, and with understanding can be an art, but as the professional, you must manage your time and commitments effectively.
Grow
A fulfilling life is about growth – business growth, personal growth, and helping those around you grow. With costs rising, you need to increase your prices to keep up. Grow your skills, become more efficient, and charge accordingly. As you learn new techniques, tools, and business skills, you’ll feel accomplished. The more you grow, the more you can help others, which is highly satisfying.
The switch
It’s essential to know when to completely switch off from work. Put your phone down and turn off notifications. Be present with family, friends, or your hobbies. Being fully engaged in your leisure time will make it feel more
In Conclusion
A good work-life balance is more than just a 9-to-5 job and having a pint on the weekend. It’s about maximizing each day, week, and month. It’s about enjoying your work and being fully present in your leisure time, giving and receiving the best life has to offer.
Roborough House is a Grade II listed property located in a residential area of Ashburton, in picturesque Devon, set among other period townhouses.
However, the exterior of the period property had been neglected for several years and required extensive repairs.
Internally, the current vendor had painstakingly restored the property, creating elegant and interesting spaces. The mix of original character features, sympathetic enhancements, and modern appliances makes Roborough House a stylish home in a well-situated location.
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PDA firm Dart Decorators were contracted to tackle the multiple issues facing the renovation and worked hard to successfully restore it to a 'like new' condition for the owners.
Oliver Price from the firm told The Decorator magazine how they tackled this challenging project...
The restoration project presented difficulties due to the intricate repairs needed across nearly all areas of the facade. The decorative mouldings had deteriorated, the paint coating had significantly failed, and the metal trim was in poor condition.
The building was in such a bad state of repair we had a survey and paint specification written, to help choose the most appropriate materials to resolve the failing paint coating.
We were very grateful to Pete Bird of Rabarts, James Burton from HMG Paints and Alan Shears from Chemfix for their appraisal of the work and their detailed specification. Without their site visits and expert advice, the restoration would have presented an impossible task.
The first requirement was a complete pre-clean. The front façade was cleaned from top to bottom using a very light jetwash and soft sponge method fungicidal scrub. All areas of the windows, masonry and architectural trim were also washed.
The decorative mouldings were replaced where necessary with Accoya, a material known for its exceptional durability and longevity.
Pre-machined Accoya trim was crafted in the workshop with assistance from a local joinery firm. Each joint was meticulously hand-cut at a 45º angle using a coping saw and secured with a combination of PU and Timbabuild EHB60 Resin for added strength.
The existing wood was replaced with African Sapele, a species renowned for its lustrous iridescence, featuring colours that range from light pink to brown, gold, and red. With a high density of 640-750kg/m³ and interlocked grain, Sapele can be challenging to machine. However, its durability makes it well-suited for withstanding the elements on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.
Fascias
We removed the old boards in sections and installed new primed Sapele boards. Each board was meticulously scribed, counter-sunk, and secured with stainless steel screws, which were then plugged with pre-made 12mm tapered plugs. The plugs were sanded flush to achieve a seamless finish and protect the cavity. The top piece was crafted on-site and any minor gaps were filled with PU foam to prevent water ingress between the boards and the façade.
The boards were then primed with Rust-Oleum Alu Primer, followed by Zinsser Cover Stain for added protection, and finished with two coats of Rubbol Primer and Rubbol Satura.
More examples of just how poorly the property had been decorated and maintained.
Bay window capping
We prepared the area by removing debris and applying HMG Primer, followed by two coats of C71 Speedline. The lead now appears as good as new and is surprisingly well-matched despite the challenges posed by the worn substrate and weathering.
Metalwork
All downpipes, gutters, and lead capping were severely rusted after around 170 years of paint accumulation. We stripped away 7-10 layers of paint to expose the bare metal and applied HMG Ferrozinc spot priming where necessary, achieving excellent results almost immediately. Ferrozinc and HMG Primer are also used inside the cast iron gutters, yielding outstanding outcomes.
Window frames were also in a very poor state, with putty needing to be replaced, and repairs made with Timbabuild before preparation and finishing.
Decorative trims had rotted badly, so were replaced with Accoya in a matching profile, secured with stainless steel screws, before plugging, filling, and smoothing ready for painting up.
Both chimneys exhibited significant decay and natural growth, which we carefully cleaned and lightly jet-washed. A local firm was then brough in to apply new render, and the chimneys were then painted with Zinsser All Weather for enhanced durability.
Ground level repairs
Severe root ingress necessitated repairs to the bottom trim at pavement level. We applied multiple layers of mini cold tar to seal any gaps that formed while removing weeds and their roots.
Extreme masonry repairs
A 6ft crack in the front façade was likely caused by a missing end cap from the original gutter, which has now been replaced. We used a 5kg tub of Metoset Resin to repair the crack, mixing the resin and filling it accordingly. We sanded the area with Granat 80g to achieve a smooth finish. Once the surface was even, we applied a texture coat of Toupret Lith-F for a uniform appearance.
Masonry
A combination of techniques was employed to prepare the fragile bare render. High moisture levels and previous gloss-like paint created a surface that had not adhered well. We applied Johnstone’s Trade Stormshield Masonry Primer, followed by a very wet mix of Toupret Mur-Ex for spot priming any problematic areas. This approach has proven effective, resulting in a completely solid substrate.
Sash windows
All eight sash windows required putty replacement. The existing putties were meticulously removed with a carbide blade and scraper and then sanded down. An aluminium primer was applied to spot-prime bare wood before reglazing each window with Repair Care Putty Glazing Tubes
Wooden sills / reveals
Several wooden sills needed replacement, which we first prepared with the Timbabuild resin primer, and built up with a combination of EHC10/EHC60 resin. Many reveals also suffered from severe water damage, so these were cut out and repaired using Masonry Primer and Toupret Mur-Ex
Front door
All metalwork was removed and restored using an Antiquax copper bath solution to return it to its original condition. The woodwork received four coats of Sikkens Rubbol Satura for a polished finish.
The client was thrilled with the finished result, which exceeded their expectations. Writing; For Oliver, decorating and repairing period properties is more than a job; it is a passion. Oliver transformed our house, and the end result is beautiful. He took the guttering back to the metal and repainted it with specialist paint. He sanded back the woodwork and repaired the windows, including re-puttying with long-lasting products. He had mouldings made to replace missing parts... The result is stunning, and several people have commented on how wonderful it looks.
Decorators are Members of the PDA based in Devon. You can visit their website at www.dartdecorators.co.uk or call them on 07908 908 555.
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When a close friend of Jason Gunter was involved in a near fatal motorcycle accident, he noticed some water damage on the walls of their home when collecting some items for the hospital stay. Jason decided it would be the least he could do to rectify the problem...
Charity begins at home
“The aim was to repair the external render to stop the water ingress, and to make good the internal decoration of the living room ready for my friend’s return home”, said Jason.
With the property being empty for a few months, time wasn’t a concern, and the first job was to trace where the water ingress was coming from.
“There was a large crack running down the internal corner of the render, which had been previously repaired poorly.
“So we opened up the crack, took away some loose masonry and foam, then stabilised the area before filling with a waterproofed cement mix, sponged to a finish.”
At one point, the moisture level on the wall was showing as 52%, but once this dropped low enough the affected wall was stripped, and any loose plaster removed.
“This revealed a nasty crack along the ceiling line which needed to be raked out and scrim clothed before filling over. The walls needed something a bit more than filler, so I used carlite bonding to give me a more level surface to work with. Once that had dried, I skimmed over it with filler and the wall was ready for some lining paper.”
The frieze was covered with Albany Reinforced Lining Paper, with the ceiling bed lined with Anaglypta 1200 before covering with Anaglypta RD124, and finally painted with Tikkurila AR2
After the initial preparation, the wall that was affected with the water ingress was was lined and papered with Anaglypta RD0602 to match the rest of the walls in the room, and painted with Tikkurila Optiva 5 in a mixed grey colour.
Finally, the woodwork recieved an adhesion primer followed by a coat of Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard Gloss in brilliant white.
“My friend has since made a remarkable recovery, and returned to a now, much drier home.”
When Leeds City Council approached Bagnalls to collaborate on producing six plaques made from MDF with laser-engraved lettering, it was the perfect opportunity to get some of their apprentices involved in the project...
Next generation honour
those who came before
MDF as a substrate was chosen by Leeds City Council as they knew, from working togther for many years, that Bagnalls had the skills to paint a brown MDF plaque with specialist techniques to mimic stone.
Stone, as a substrate, was not affordable for the council, so the chosen solution was not only cost effective but also complimented the heritage look that the council were aiming for to match the existing plaques in the chamber.
This project was particularly meaningful to Leeds as it aimed to address a lack of female representation in the Civic Chamber existing plaques, which are predominantly acknowledging the historical roles of male councillors. With the addition of these female plaques there is now a more balanced representation for the city of Leeds.
Bagnalls had access to the chambers for most of the project. When access wasn’t possible, they worked on the plaques at their nearby Leeds branch.
Aspect Building Solutions fabricated and engraved the boards, before passing them over to Owen Sheldon, a second-year apprentice (runner up at the PDA Junior Apprentice awards in 2024), to lead the decorating efforts.
Input and guidance was provided by Tom Waudby, Contracts Manager (who also started his career as an award-winning apprentice), leveraging his experience to achieve the desired finish. Other operatives involved were Rob Bray, painter, and first year apprentice Eadie Catterill who helped by base coating the boards and moving them to and from the buildings.
Bagnalls are Members of the PDA operating Nationwide. You can call them on 01274 714 800 or visit their website at www.bagnalls.co.uk
The goal was to transform the plain MDF brown plaques into pieces that looked like aged stone. This began by priming the MDF with Johnstone’s Trade MDF Primer, before using Coverplus Matt emulsion in a combination of greys, beige and brown colours to achieve a stone like aged colour.
Initially a blended colour background was painted, followed by stippling using natural sponges, flogger and badger softeners to achieve a distressed finish and give the plaques a weathered, historical appearance.
Once the stone effect was complete, the lettering and border was painted
with two coats of Ardenbrite in three shades of gold, again to achieve a heritage look rather than a newly finished appearance.
The customer is over the moon with the finished plaques, and agrees they are testament to not only the painting skills of Bagnalls but also a fitting tribute to the many women who served Leeds over the past 150 years, and were installed in the Civic Chambers alongside the existing plaques in January.
David Ralph, of Leeds City Council said, “I can say on behalf of Head of Services we are mightily impressed.”
Standing 152 feet tall, the M004 Chimney at His Majesty's Naval Base Devonport is an iconic feature of the largest naval base in Western Europe. This towering structure in Plymouth plays a critical role in supporting the 650-acre site which boasts 15 dry docks, four miles of waterfront, and a history dating back to 1691 with the Royal Navy.
Reaching new heights
When the time came for essential remedial works to this immense metal chimney, the Ian Williams team were brought on board. The project included preparation, cleaning and redecoration of the chimney to ensure it remained a reliable vent for the entire dockyard.
The project was no small feat. The chimney’s sheer height, equivalent to 27 scaffolding lifts, posed unique challenges including high winds and structural sway. Preparation was critical, and Ian Williams chose PPG Duraprep 88 Degreaser to remove deposits of oil and grease from the previously painted surface, before using a range of other PPG coatings for a durable, flawless finish.
To give a better idea of the scale of the project, here’s an average height adult male for comparison!
To withstand the hot steam ejected from the top of the chimney, 16 litres of specialist black PPG Hi Temp paint was applied to the top eight metres. The heat-resistant coating protects metal surfaces from corrosion in extreme conditions, making it ideal for this demanding environment.
For the remainder of the M004 Chimney, the team applied a whopping 272 litres of lightgrey PPG Sigmacover 435.
Known for its durability and
surface tolerance, this two-component epoxy coating offers excellent impact and abrasion resistance, making it a trusted choice for harsh environments like marine and industrial settings.
Mike Trainor, Business Manager for the Plymouth team at Ian Williams, said, “It was a tough project to complete. Working that high in the air and dealing with challenging conditions required skill, precision, and a lot of teamwork. The team did an incredible job and we couldn’t be prouder of the results.
“We want to say a big thank you to PPG for providing the specialist coatings that made the chimney look good as new and will protect it for many years to come.”
The teams' efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Ian Williams was crowned a winner at the 40th Johnstone’s Painter of the Year Awards, taking home the Commercial and Industrial Award.
Megan Esmond, PPG Marketing Director said, “The competition at the Painter of the Year Awards gets tougher and tougher every year, the talent out there in our industry is just remarkable. But when it came to the Commercial and Industry category, there was a clear winner. To work at such heights while battling the elements, and still be able to deliver such an impeccable finish is commendable. A huge congratulations the team at Ian Williams!”
Ian Williams are Members of the PDA operating Nationwide. You can visit their website at www.ianwilliams.co.uk or call them on 01454 328 000
When it comes to ladder safety and choices, my go-to brand is Little Giant Ladders. They are constantly innovating and improving their offerings, and their newest product that I’ve been using is the hi-vis green fibreglass A-Force Ladder.
The ladder is kept rigid with four substantial black leg braces, and when the spreader step is locked into position this completes the A-Frame very quickly and provides you an additional 4” for your feet. This creates a comfortable platform and is always positioned by Little Giant Ladders to be in the optimum position across all ladder-size variants. Heavy-duty black feet grip the terrain you are working on and instil a feeling of safety when using it.
Robust, oversized deep grooved box section aluminium treads provide additional comfort and improved foot grip as more of my feet are supported.
This A-Frame ladder has an innovative black top cap with four ports on the sides and back, which allow accessories to be docked such as a loot box, which is really handy, allowing bigger things to be held securely and freeing up space because it hangs outside the top cap.
The ladder also has a place for connecting a lanyard using a karabiner, which is perfect when up high. You can then connect the other end to things you may be using. There is a unique drill port, a tape measure clip and holes for screwdrivers, scrapers, etc. In addition, there is a neat magnetic compartment for odds and ends like screws and fittings to keep them organised. A hammer hole means you can park your claw hammer and relax, knowing it won’t get knocked off.
Features & Benefits
‘ Spreader step gives extra 4” width
‘ Non-conductive fibreglass
‘ Oversized box section treads
‘ Innovative top cap
‘ Optional accessories
The A-Force is compact in storage mode, meaning it is easy to stow in the van or workshop, and available in 4, 6, and 8 tread configurations.
tool TALK
Repair Care Box 5 Systainer
@repair_care_international_uk
www.repair-care.co.uk
The first product I think of using when it comes to timber repairs, be that rot or damage, is the world-class resin system Repair Care. However, turning up to my client’s properties with a bag or bucket full of this specialist system just doesn’t create a good impression before I’ve even started.
So now I have a green Repair Care Systainer with a really funky white carry handle and T-Loc. This is not just any systainer... This is a Repair Care Systainer! It is a must-have for anyone who has their amazing kit.
Easy transportation is made possible with the T-Loc system, which allows me to lock and stack it together with my other systainers, which store my sanders and abrasives, plus many other tool brands that have.
Features & Benefits
‘ White T-Loc and handle
‘ 42cm (H) x 40cm (W) x 30cm (D)
‘ Stackable with all T-LOC systainers
‘ Compatible with older locking latches
Measuring 42cm x 40cm x 30cm, it has ample space for my complete Repair Care setup.
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, Darren Robinson of D Robinson Painter & Decorator!
@owatroluk
www.owatroldirect.co.uk
One of my oldest clients is 95, she has been my customer for just over 24 years. She called to say that her four large, very expensive 20-year-old oak-grained GRP garage doors looked faded, dry, and horrible. She wondered if I was able to suggest something that could be done to give them a new lease of life. The sun, rain and elements had taken their toll.
I always have Owatrol Polytrol on my van. It’s perfect for faded GRP, plastics, chrome, metal, faded coloured paint, and so much more. Polytrol restores the shine on bare metals and provides protection from corrosion.
After a really good washdown, I allowed the garage doors to dry thoroughly overnight. It’s best to ensure there is no loose debris close by, such as leaves or dust, that could blow onto the treated surfaces, as this will stick until Polytrol is dry (as it would do on an oil-based gloss-painted door).
I applied the transparent, deeply penetrating oil with a brush and allowed it to soak in for around 10 minutes. It’s best to do this when it’s not in full sun or windy. I then removed the excess Polytrol with a lint-free cloth, buffing it up as I go. My client was shocked as the garage doors looked brand new, even her neighbours were stopping to comment on the transformation! Polytrol oil is long-lasting and transparent and can penetrate deeply into the surface applied. It doesn’t leave a film, is flexible, and is very easy to apply.
Features & Benefits
‘ Deep penetrating transparent oil
‘ Restores colour
‘ Protects bare metals
‘ Easy to use
Features & Benefits
‘ Quick-release holster
‘ L5 Auto Lock knife
‘ Flexible belt loop
‘ Adjustable holster angle
‘ Black 18mm excel blade
KH-1 Holster and L5-AL Knife
@olfa_ukie
www.olfauk.com
Manufactured in Japan since 1956, OLFA tools are of outstanding quality and respected worldwide. I have been using their cutting tools since I was 16 and am now 63, with the new Quick Holster, the 18mm X-design knife can be at my side when I need it, ready to use in seconds, and there is zero chance of me losing it!
I attach it to my belt with the elastomer belt loop, allowing free movement when moving about, and I am pleased that the angle is adjustable to suit my optimal position, which varies depending on what I am doing.
The holster has a bright red lever/lock which I simply press with my index finger whilst holding the knife, and lift out of the holster in one smooth operation - after a few goes, it’s fast!
To securely dock the knife into the holster, simply push until you hear a double click. The acetone resistant holster is durable and top quality, and will work with all heavy-duty 18mm X-design knives.
The knife that comes with the holster is the L5 Auto Lock, which has a metal tail end that is very handy for opening paint tins, creasing wallpaper into corners of ceilings and skirting and door frames, especially heavy contract vinyls like Muraspec
Features & Benefits
‘ Built-in level
‘ Bright yellow ABS plastic
‘ Easy grip with lipped edges
‘ Screw access left and right
‘ Made In UK
I’ve been installing wall coverings for the last 47 years, and have always levelled up power sockets afterwards. On many jobs, I remove the sockets to allow paint behind them, which is much neater! I used to use a small spirit level, however last year, I found a really handy gadget.
SocketMate resembles a child safety three-pin plug with a built-in spirit level benefiting from a top viewing bevel, which allows me to view the bubble without having to bend down directly in front of the sockets.
Its lipped edges make it easier to grip when inserting and removing, and two cut-outs allow easy tightening of the screws whilst SocketMate is in place.
It is manufactured using ABS Injection moulded plastic, so it’s a tough little tool, and being bright yellow ensures I don’t lose it on the job!
Masking Tape
When it comes to choosing masking tapes, I consider a few points: cost, quality, size and suitability.
I always buy the best I can afford for sensitive surfaces, and you won’t go wrong with a trusted brand like 3M. It is worth noting this masking tape is both water and UV-resistant and, most importantly, produces exceptionally straight lines.
They have a great masking tape range with a proven track record of performance. 3M tapes are Individually wrapped, protecting the edges from drying out and, dust and debris contamination. Once opened, I store it in a zip bag to stay fresh.
3M Sensitive Masking Tape enables me to confidently protect painted, wallpapered or other delicate surfaces. I use it on both water and oil-based products with excellent results!
A 24mm roll will usually have about 50m on it, and you can use it for interior and exterior purposes. It allows effortless removal for up to 60 days!
Features & Benefits
‘ Exceptionally straight lines
‘ Water & UV resistant
‘ Interior & exterior
‘ Individually wrapped
‘ Also in 36mm x 50m and 48mm x 50m
Smaller job? Smaller pack!
Reach new heights
BoSS has unveiled an enhanced version of its low-level multi-application mobile podium, QuickPod with the launch of its brand-new 1500 model. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the new product has a platform height of 1.5m and prioritises 360° safety for users, with key features including an auto-closing safety gate, guardrail, and pivoting stabilisers for ultimate solidity. The ergonomic two-piece design offers a podium frame and integrated ladder section with platform, with Toe Board Kit available as an extra. The QuickPod 1500 is quick to set-up and easy to transport and store, with its compact footprint ensuring comfortable use in confined spaces, while the integral ladder ensures easy ascending and descending. Tested and certified to the latest BS8620:2016 standard for safety.
Dulux Trade is now offering its popular Ultra Matt paint in 3-litre packs, joining the existing 10-litre format, offering greater flexibility to suit different needs across domestic and commercial projects. Ultra Matt perfectly complements the broader Dulux Trade product range, offering a specialised solution specifically formulated for ceilings. The new 3-litre pack size can cover up to 48m2, making it perfect for smaller, single room jobs, ensuring standout results whilst reducing waste. Dulux Trade Ultra Matt provides an anti-flashing formulation with a smooth and even finish, making it ideal for spaces with challenging light conditions or where ceilings have imperfections.
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Benjamin Moore have introduced two new primers to the UK market under their specialist primer brand, Insl-X Max Block is the next generation of water-based primers, formulated to provide advanced stain-blocking properties. Years of testing on multiple substrates in both interior and exterior environments have resulted in a product with proven effectiveness across multiple types of stains and tannin bleeding woods, providing a lower-VOC and lower odour option than an alkyd-based stain-blocking primer. Insl-X High Build Peel Bonding Primer is designed to smooth and seal weathered surfaces with peeling, cracking or chalking paint. The water-based acrylic primer is ideal for wood and masonry surfaces. This high build primer reduces preparation time by binding chalky residue, gluing down flaking edges and can be applied up to 0.5mm wet to ensure an even surface.
The new, versatile, single pack floor coating from Albany is available now and exclusive to Brewers Decorator Centres! You can achieve a perfect finish for both interior and exterior floors in a wide range of materials that will stand the test of time.
Albany Solvent Based Floor Paint is a single pack, easy use floor paint. The solvent-based paint dries to a durable, semi-gloss finish and is perfect for use on masonry, cement, concrete and wood. The floor paint can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces and can be applied with a brush or short pile roller.
Albany Water Based Floor Paint is an acrylic floor paint offering a professional grade and durable coating, designed for superior performance. It is ideal for applications requiring a finish with quick drying properties and has minimal odour. The versatile finish can be applied to interior and exterior surfaces including tarmac, concrete, asphalt and wood.
BT1 is similar to CT1 but is also anti-bacterial and mouldresistant, making it ideal for sealing around baths, sinks, showers, and kitchen worktops. BT1’s formulation prevents black mould growth, which is a common issue in painted and decorated spaces. Unlike traditional sealant and silicones, BT1 is paintable when it has cured, meaning decorators can achieve a seamless finish without worrying about paint adhesion issues. Provides a clean, professional look without the need for additional priming.
Dependable colours
www.mylands.com
Mylands and leading interior designer Beata Heuman introduce The Dependables, a collection of 24 considered, vivid and reliable paint colours. Versatile light neutrals to cover most walls, mid-tones for shadowy depth in places, darker shades to add edge and contrast, a generous sprinkling of uplifting but calming greens and blues, buttery, irresistible yellows and a sizzling pop of red to add the cherry on the cake. Each of the 24 trusted shades has been carefully honed and tested to ensure they work in most settings, in different combinations and cohesively as a whole. Though curated and succinct, the collection is versatile and full of possibility. The collection is available in Mylands’ industry-leading Plant-Based Multi-Surface finish, with outstanding versatility and an eco-conscious formulation, Plant-based Floor Paint Satin, its new Olive Stone Emulsion made with crushed olive stones with a dead matt finish, Mylands’ signature Marble Matt Emulsion, and also its Exterior Masonry paint.
Compacter extractor
www.festool.co.uk
Festool is expanding its range with the new CT MIDI I AC mobile dust extractor with automatic filter cleaning. Compact, powerful and therefore ideal for high demands during service and assembly work.
The new extractor impresses with its outstanding suction power and user-friendly functions. With a powerful 1200-watt motor and a maximum suction power of 3700 l/min, the appliance offers efficient and thorough dust extraction. Thanks to the advanced AUTOCLEAN function, the suction power remains constantly high, even during long periods of use, which saves time and money.
As you would expect from Festool, the CT MIDI I AC is equipped with ingenious details for mobile work on the construction site because of its ergonomic design, low weight of 11.3 kg, robust chassis and parking brake. The touch control and Bluetooth® technology enable intuitive control and easy handling.
The mobile dust extractor is compatible with a wide range of power tools and is ideal for service and assembly work and renovation work. The integrated socket with automatic switch-on ensures efficient dust extraction directly at the source.
Festool attaches great importance to the safety of its products. The CT MIDI I AC is equipped with an antistatic suction hose and has an automatic switch-off function. The long-life main filter ensures effective filtration of fine dust and helps to improve air quality.
Mirka is enhancing its tooling line-up with the launch of the new Mirka DecoSander, a versatile pole sander that has been developed with efficiency and ease of use at the forefront of its design. This innovative tool offers precision sanding for walls, ceilings, and tight corners, ensuring a flawless finish in any environment.
Pole sander reaches for new heights
The DecoSander tips the scales at 0.8kg, which makes it easy to use for a sustained period, reducing fatigue and maximising comfort. In addition, the sander’s adjustable telescopic pole ensures high ceilings can be reached and the tool’s swivel assembly allows the sanding heads to access and sand at any angle. The DecoSander has interchangeable heads and is available in two options: DecoSander with 80x230mm head or with both the 80x230mm and 225mm head.
The DecoSander also has a stabilised sanding head, designed to prevent accidental tilting and flipping over at the edges. This allows the tool to provide a stable operation, no matter the surface or angle it is being used at. Additionally, when combined with Mirka’s dust-free net abrasives and
suitable dust extraction, the DecoSander creates a virtually dust-free sanding work environment for the user.
Pete Sartain, national sales manager, industrial Mirka UK, says, “We recognised the need for a versatile, highperformance sanding tool that meets the demands of professionals, so the R&D team developed the DecoSander. This new tool is the next evolution in pole sanders and fills a critical gap in the market. We are excited to showcase its benefits and can’t wait to hear how it becomes an essential asset for our customers.”
Crown Paints has launched its Colour Insights 2025/2026, a collection of five palettes designed to help painters and decorators confidently guide clients with their colour choices.
Colour Insights
Developed by Crown’s team of colour experts, the new palettes titles Co, Choreography, Disrupt, G-local, and Faraway are inspired by global trends and offer a practical toolkit for understanding how colours work together:
• Co – A light and breezy palette that fosters productivity and relaxation.
• Choreography – Organic cocooning colours that evolve to the individual.
• Disrupt – A bold mix of of shades that provokes interaction and emotion.
• G-local – A neutral base with subtle green and orange accents, merging tradition with modernity.
• Faraway – Iridescent and dynamic that enables individual expression.
The ambition is to empower decorators to engage with customers at the colour selection stage and help them enhance the service they provide, and increase customer loyalty and word-of-mouth recommendations.
Jemma Saunders, Colour Specialist at Crown Paints said, “Colour is so much more than a decorative tool. It shapes how we feel, work and interact within spaces. This year’s Colour Insights palettes are reflective of a world that’s constantly evolving, in which decorators need a framework to deliver creative, meaningful designs for their customers.
“To create this collection, we looked at everything from environmental changes to digital advancements, and how people interact with spaces. It’s the result of months of collaboration, pulling inspiration from a wide range of sources and perspectives.
“We’re very proud of the collection and can’t wait to see how decorators use our insights to bring their customers’ visions to life.”
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New year, new colours
Farrow & Ball has added 12 new colours to its signature palette: nine brand-new creations and, for the first time, three previously archived shades. All handcrafted in Dorset, the new paint colours have been carefully curated with the extraordinary ordinary in mind.
The new colours range from a deep terracotta to a crisp blue, an earthy green to a delicate pink, with inspiration including a dependable garden tool, folkloric fireplaces and even the humble duster. This grounded palette celebrates, illuminates and indulges in the everyday. The hidden heroes of our fondest memories and the special touches that make a moment an occasion.
Joa Studholme, Colour Curator for Farrow & Ball comments, “Over the last few years, we’ve relished living with colour. It’s opened our eyes to all the shades surrounding us, which we often don’t think about. The treasures right under our noses. Now, we’re ready to embrace more colour and celebrate these unsung heroes in our homes.
“Marmelo, named after the quince that inspired marmalade, is one of my favourite new colours. Who could fail to be comforted by that familiar orange reminiscent of warm, buttered toast and conversations around the breakfast table? I also have a real soft spot for Douter. It sits somewhere between Inchyra Blue and Green Smoke, but it was really inspired by traditional brass candle snuffers and I always think candlelight brings a magical quality, whether it’s a dinner party or just a cosy evening in.”
For the first time, Farrow & Ball is reintroducing shades from its well-established Archive, which includes every paint colour the heritage brand has made over its 78 years. The three returning shades are Sap Green, Broccoli Brown and Etruscan Red. The new colours will be available in selected interior and exterior finishes from the Farrow & Ball website, showrooms and stockists.
