The Decorator – April-May 2020

THE

DECORATOR

The official journal of the Painting and Decorating Association • April-May 2020

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Dear Members, These are unprecedented times and we are all facing both business and personal challenges which were unimaginable just a few weeks ago. As your membership sector-specific trade association, our major concern is for your health and wellbeing, as well as the survival of your business. COVID-19 is spreading rapidly and the impact on businesses across the construction industry, of which we are a part, is dramatic and unavoidable.

The PDA is engaging with its Membership to ensure that we respond to the concerns of the sector.

Our priority is supporting Members and the wider industry with advice, guidance and information on construction-specific issues.

I sent a formal letter to Paul Scully, Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Markets, asking how the Government intends to support and assist Members’ businesses. Details of how the Government will support the self-employed were outlined on Thursday 26 March.

We will continue to work proactively to support and update all our Member companies, whatever size they may be. All we can do is hope that like-minded trade associations do the same. The more pressure we can all apply collectively, the more traction will be gained. It goes without saying that all businesses should continue to follow the most up-to-date government guidance.

With this in mind, we have created a special page on our website – www.tinyurl.com/pdacovid – where we are collating relevant information for our Members and the sector. Also, don’t forget to keep an eye on our social media channels for the latest updates. We are in constant communication with BUILD UK, part of whose remit is to support trade associations. There is a link to their website and useful resources on our website.

In the light of current circumstances, we have cancelled our Golf and Activity Day, which was due to take place in May. In addition, the Premier Trophy Awards event has been rescheduled for Friday 6 November 2020 at Plaisterers’ Hall, but we will be keeping a watching brief on this area. The Clerks of Works Judges have already visited around half of the submitted projects, and the rest have been postponed until they can recommence site visits. The three Apprentice competitions have also been rescheduled for September and October 2020 dates.

As we try to get to grips with the ‘new normal’, please be assured that The Painting & Decorating Association will do whatever it can to support its Members during this difficult time.

For the moment, our office is still fully operational and the team is available to assist our Members Monday to Friday each week. Our 24/7 legal advice and stress counselling assistance service is also fully operational on 0345 313 4141.

If this situation changes, we will of course be in touch. You can also contact the team our office directly on 024 7635 3776 or email info@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk I sincerely hope that in the coming weeks and months, the situation will improve for us all and we can get back to some sort of normality in everyday life.

In the meantime, please keep following us, support each other, and most of all, keep safe and stay healthy.

Kind regards,

Neil Ogilvie Chief Executive

@TheDecoratorMag

/DecoratorMag /TheDecoratorMag

elsewhere in this issue...

4 Association News 16 Members News 24 Training and education 28 The Gallery 30 FAQ with Charlie Budd 32 Sector News 34 Using towers safely 36 Case studies 44 Crown Colour Trends 46 Tooltalk with Wayne de Wet 48 Products and services

THE

DECORATOR

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

April -May 2020 — Volume 89 No 2 The Decorator is published by Catherine Saint Publicity on behalf of the Painting & Decorating Association PDA Editorial Neil Ogilvie Telephone: 07796 942474 e-mail: neil@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

Advertising and Editorial Catherine Saint Publicity Telephone: 07941 590183 e-mail: catherine.saint@yahoo.co.uk Artworking and Design empathicVisions Telephone: 07789 725074 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.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS @thePDA

takeNOTICE

facebook.com/thePDA

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

CORONAVIRUS COVID-19 UPDATES The Painting and Decorating Association has been closely monitoring the situation regarding the COVID-19 virus. To help PDA Members prepare and plan for how the virus might impact their business, we have put together all the information and advice, including guidance on hygiene, in a special area of our website.

Many of you have already contacted us with enquiries and to raise your concerns and we will seek to assist you as best we can. Your wellbeing and welfare are our main priority and we are trying to contact as many Members by telephone to offer support and reassurance in these times.

Telephone: 024 7635 3776

Email: info@paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

STAY SAFE FROM ONLINE CRIME It’s an unfortunate reality, but some criminals seek to exploit human or security vulnerabilities in order to make a gain for themselves. While people are confined to working from home due to Covid-19 fraudsters may try to capitalise on IT problems to commit service fraud or online phishing.

Stay alert and stay safe and be on the lookout for: • Unsolicited calls or emails suggesting you have a computer problem and they can help • Phishing – bogus emails asking for security information and personal details – do not open any links and delete and block sender

LISTEN TO EPISODE 4 NOW! The latest episode of the PDA Podcast series is now available on Soundcloud, where Neil Ogilvie speaks to Sandie Webster about running her own business and after taking part in competitions and being the only female judge in the construction sector at the World Skills competition.

We’ve got more lined up and welcome any Members feedback on what subjects you would like featuring in future podcasts. You can also put yourself forward as a guest to take part in the series!

To get involved and submit your suggestions, go to www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/PDAPodcast

Listen to any of the PDA Podcasts by visiting www.tinyurl.com/pdapodcasts

THANKS FOR THE MEMOIRS

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Back in the August-September issue of The Decorator, we mentioned that retired Trophy Awards judge, Bob Hewitt, had released his memoirs titled Precious Moments. Up to the end of 2019, 80 copies of the book had been sold, raising £425 which has been donated evenly to The Stroke Association and The Royal Osteoporosis Society.

Bob would like to thank everyone who bought a copy of the book, and let us know that he has now started on his second novel, which is centred on his love of watching Bournemouth Football Team.

• Hacking – including social media and email passwords – keep your passwords safe and follow online security for all social media sites Websites for information are Action Fraud www.bit.ly/3dF5iMA and CPS www.bit.ly/2WSZZTD

OBITUARY

Peter Sayner Peter was a long-standing member of the York Branch and staunch supporter of the PDA. He was a past Branch President and for many years Toast Master at the York Dinner Dances as well as Branch Secretary for over 20 years.

He passed away on Sunday 16 February 2020 aged 88, his funeral was held on Thursday 5 March. Peter leaves a widow, Noreen, and two daughters, Becky and Gillian, as well as grandchildren.

Peter was quite a character and will be sadly missed by all his fellow Members at York, as he still attended meetings up until last Autumn.

ASSOCIATION NEWS

THE GOOD WORK PLAN UPCOMING CHANGES FOR APRIL 2020 AND BEYOND

APPRENTICESHIP SERVICE ADVANCED GRANT PAYMENT CITB IS MAKING available advanced payment of apprenticeship attendance grants for second and third-year apprentices, to help keep skills within the construction industry amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The payments will be available from 6 April for apprentices already subject to CITB grant support and who are currently in the second or third year of their apprenticeship for the remainder of the year.

Employers will need to complete a very brief online form, which is being developed, via the CITB website.

The advance payment is subject to the standard terms and conditions and the reclaiming of grant paid if the apprentice leaves employment or completes their apprenticeship early.

The payments are available to support 7,500 apprentices, and will advance to employers up to £2,500 in attendance grant at a time when retaining apprentices is critical.

Braden Connolly, CITB Director of Products and Services said, “Apprenticeships are essential to safeguard the future of the construction industry amid the skills shortage.

“The coronavirus outbreak is putting employers, in particular smaller firms, under extreme pressure and CITB will do all it can to support them through this crisis.

“We expect this advanced payment will enable some of the smallest apprentice employers to continue with their apprentice and avoid the need to furlough.”

You can read more at www.bit.ly/2wBsydA

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THE GOVERNMENT IS currently rolling out an extensive programme of employment law reforms known as the Good Work Plan, in response to the challenges caused by the huge growth in the use of casual working and selfemployed arrangements.

The aim of these is not to restrict flexibility, which is recognised as being key for businesses. Instead, they aim to make it easier for individuals to understand and enforce their rights and provide much greater clarity on the terms of engagement.

Almost every business in the UK will be affected by the changes. However, they’re particularly important for the construction sector due to the number of contractors and self-employed individuals.

IL 2020 6TH APR

Defining employment status The issue at the heart of these reforms is that of correctly identifying the employment status of those who work for your business, as this governs employment rights.

Individuals who start working for businesses on a casual basis may, through regular use, have become integrated with the business to such an extent that they would be classed as employees or workers, entitling them to additional rights.

How will the construction sector be impacted?

A key focus area of the Good Work Plan is seeking to address the rights of those working without employee status or without fixed hours.

By introducing state enforcement of these rights for ‘vulnerable workers’ (yet to be defined), the reforms seek to improve the enforcement of employment rights, particularly holiday entitlement and pay.

Following a series of court decisions on commission payments and overtime, holiday pay calculations (what should be included) have changed in recent years. The

THE PDA’S EDUCATION and Training Committee provides a focal point to raise skills and aspirations across the sector and has become a key link between the industry, CITB, Association of Painting Craft Teachers (APCT), Awarding Organisations (including NOCN and City and Guilds) and Manufacturers, who are all represented at quarterly meetings.

Committee members work with key partners to ensure that training and qualification content is appropriate and mapped to industry needs, with any skills gaps being bridged with relevant and accessible training provision. The committee remains focussed on raising standards across the sector, to ensure that there are appropriate routes to upskill and, equally as important, that the Painting and Decorating sector is accessible to those people wishing to join it.

The Committee has been actively engaged in a range of project led training and skills initiatives, more recently involving industry standards and end point assessments, validation of the new T Level qualification, upskilling experienced workers and the training and qualification of much needed industry assessors. In addition, members have had the unique opportunity to engage in a range of innovative projects led by UNIEP, the International Association of Painting Contractors, which represents over 60,000 businesses through its member trade associations across Europe.

This year the committee will focus on working closely with awarding organisations, supporting the transition and integration of the new Trailblazer Apprenticeship and post16 qualifications to assist individuals and employers make informed career and progression choices. Utilising the expertise and experience of current members, the

method for calculating entitlements to those working variable hours will change significantly, from taking an average of the previous 12 weeks worked to calculating the average over the previous 52 weeks worked.

The Good Work Plan also aims to improve clarity in terms of workers who have a more casual relationship with the business, as well as employees. It will extend the right to a statutory statement of main terms to all workers, requiring this to be made available on the first day of work, as well as introducing a list of additional information which must be provided.

Significantly, the reforms will allow some workers the right to request a stable contract. This will not be mandatory, in recognition that some workers are happy to work varied hours each week, but those who would like more certainty will be able to request a fixed working pattern from their employer.

Although there is currently no implementation date for this, the change was a prominent feature in the new Employment Bill announced in the Queen’s Speech.

Given the complexity of the topic, managers and employers wanting to know more can download the white paper produced by Build UK partner Citation, which clarifies the significant changes and what they mean for both employers and employees. www.citation.co.uk/good-work-plan

UPSKILLING STARTS HERE

committee will also engage in careers related activities to attract new entrants into the industry through the uptake of Apprenticeships, by linking into local, regional and national initiatives.

Julie Lawrenson, National Training & Development Manager, Bell Group

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ASSOCIATION NEWS Below is a list of what is currently available in the the way of Financial Support in response to Covid-19, as of 30 March 2020. As this is an ongoing situation, you can find the most up to date information on the government website www.businesssupport.gov.uk Scheme

Eligibility

Summary

Business rates holiday

Retail, hospitality and leisure sector businesses in England

• No action required • Will be applied to Council Tax bill in April 2020 (your bill may have to be reissued) • Calculate the value of this benefit at www.gov.uk/calculate-your-business-rates

Cash grant

Retail, hospitality and leisure sector businesses in England

• No action required • Local Authorities will notify businesses – find your local authority at www.gov.uk/find-local-council • Available for each different property dependent on rateable value – Rateable value under £15,000 eligible for £10,000 – Rateable value between £15,001- £51,000 eligible for £25,000

Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS)

• Available as of 23 March 2020 UK businesses with a turnover of less • Loans of up to £5 million than £45 million per year which meet • 12 months interest free British Business Bank eligibility criteria • Find out more from www.british-business-bank.co.uk – apply through your current bank or an accredited lender

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

All UK employers

• Employees that you can no longer afford to pay will be designated 'furloughed workers' • Claim 80% of their wage costs up to a cap of £2,500 per month • A new online portal will be established

COVID-19 Corporate Financing Facility

All UK businesses

• Available as of 23 March 2020 • Purchase Commercial Paper (CP) during a defined period each business day • Businesses do not have to have previously issued CP • Available from the Bank of England www.bankofengland.co.uk/markets

Income Tax deferral

Self-employed workers

• Income Tax Self-Assessment payments due on 31 July 2020 will be deferred until 31 January 2021

MOT Suspension

Businesses utilising heavy good vehicles (HGVs) and public service vehicles (PSVs)

• Available as of 21 March 2020 • Annual MOTs suspended for three months for all HGVs and PSVs • Vehicles to be issued with a certificate of temporary exemption (CTE) • Find out more from the DVSA – www.gov.uk/guidance/

Self Employed Income Support Scheme

Individuals with a trading profit of less than £50,000 and at least half of their income deriving from self-employed work

• Taxable grants worth up to 80% of average monthly trading profit • Up to £2,500 per month for a minimum of three months • Level of support based on tax returns from previous three years, or returns available to HMRC if less than three years’ worth • Deadline for submission of self-assessment tax returns for 2018/19 extended by four weeks • HMRC will contact eligible individuals

Small Business Grant Scheme

Small businesses that occupy property and receive Small Business Rate Relief (SBBR), Rural Rate Relieve (RRR), or Tapered Relief in England

• No action required • Local Authorities will contact businesses - www.gov.uk/find-local-council • One-off grant of £10,000 • Scheme not yet in place

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) reclaim

Employers with fewer than 250 employees on 28 February 2020

• Claim back up to two weeks SSP per employee who is absent due to coronavirus (COVID-19) • Maintain records of absence • No GP fit note required • Repayment mechanism not yet in place • Commences as soon as the legislation is in place

Time to Pay – Tax Service

Businesses that pay tax to the UK Government and cannot pay a current tax bill

• Arranged on a case by case basis for current or imminent tax payments • Call HMRC on 0800 024 1222 or visit www.gov.uk/contact-hmrc

All UK businesses

• VAT payments will not need to be made between 20 March and 30 June 2020 • Businesses with payments falling between these dates have the option to defer payment, to be due by April 2021 • Continue to account for VAT on eligible goods and services • No penalties or interest will be charged • Vat refunds will be paid as normal • No application required to benefit from deferral

VAT deferral for 3 months

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

ADVICE for

our Members

There are new guidelines issued due to Covid-19 including income tax and VAT deferral. Refer to the Government pages at www.bit.ly/2WXEIIF

MAKING TAX DIGITAL IS HERE Stay HMRC-Compliant and change the way you file your VAT returns for good BRITISH BUSINESSES MUST submit VAT returns digitally via MTD-ready software from April 2020, you will be required to transfer data between compatible software through a digital link. That puts an end to manual corrects, copying and pasting from spreadsheets and typing-up.

In order to help you prepare for what could be your first MTD for VAT submission, Mike Parkes from GoSimpleTax has provided a guide to ensuring you’re fully compliant.

Check if you need to comply with MTD As a general rule, the majority of VAT-registered businesses with a turnover above £85,000 are subject to MTD for VAT for their first VAT return period starting after 1 April 2019.

If this applies to you, you’ll need to address this.

If your taxable income is below £85,000, you won’t need to embrace this software yet. However, if you are VAT-registered, the only other exemptions from following the MTD rules are if: • Your business is subject to an insolvency procedure • You cannot use the necessary technology due to age, disability, or location • You object to the necessary technology based on religious grounds.

Register for MTD for VAT You need to register at least one week before the first MTD for VAT return is due. You’ll need your existing Government Gateway ID and password to hand, along with your VAT registration number.

HMRC will send an email within 72 hours confirming that you can submit your MTD for VAT returns.

If you are already using accounting software, in all likelihood this transition won’t affect you. Your only real responsibility will be to register with HMRC, ensure the software you use is MTD-compatible, and communicates directly to HMRC. For those who aren’t yet using software, this is the perfect opportunity to find the right package for you – the visibility offered by this technology is unrivalled.

Choose software suited to you If you already use software to prepare your accounts and VAT returns, the only thing you’ll need to check is that it’s MTD for VAT-compliant. These solutions come in two forms: • Compatible software that allows you to keep records and submit VAT Returns via the product • Bridging software that can connect non-compatible software (spreadsheets, for example) to HMRC’s systems.

Don’t forget to sign up Once you’ve chosen your preferred route, you need to sign up your business. There you will be asked whether or not you have a solution in place and that it is indeed HMRC-approved.

Following completion of the process, HMRC will send you a confirmation email within 72 hours. Wait until you receive this before submitting your VAT Return, otherwise you risk duplicating the process. Once done, you can use your VAT online account to manage payments and keep track of deadlines.

If your tax period is between April and July, provided you’ve done all of the above, you’re certain to be compliant. In addition, you’ll be the first to recognise the time- and money-saving benefit of using VAT solutions for your organisation.

Want VAT software that’s future-proof?

The use of ‘bridging software’ is considered acceptable by HMRC, and digitally links spreadsheets to HMRC to maintain the digital path necessary for MTD. The deadline to integrate this or other compliant accounting software was 31 March 2020.

You won’t find a more encompassing bridging software solution on the market than GoSimpleVAT. Approved

by HMRC it is ideal for any Painting and Decorating business.

GoSimpleTAX also provide our award-winning self-assessment tax return software and we are proud partners of the PDA, as such we offer an exclusive discount of 30% on any of our software to their members. Call GoSimpleTAX today on 0161 413 5041 with your Membership number to hand to receive your discount code.

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TRADING WITHOUT BUSINESS INSURANCE

–WHAT IS THE RISK? LET’S BE HONEST, most of us see insurance as a grudge purchase, in that we don’t necessarily want to buy it but feel that we should because of law, regulations or necessity.

That’s no different when it comes to buying business insurance and often small business owners will select lower limits of cover than is perhaps required as they seek to pay as little as possible for their insurance policy. Or, in some cases, do not buy insurances at all.

Seeing the value of an insurance policy can therefore be very difficult, but as insurance is indeed a promise to pay out when you may need to make a claim; it provides you with financial security and the peace of mind that should something unexpected happen you’re protected.

Hopefully, you’ll never have to use your insurance as it’s benefit can only be tested when something has gone wrong. So what are the consequences of something going wrong and you not having that protection in place?

Whether its paint spilt on a customer’s carpet, an injury to an employee from falling off ladders or exposures to paint fumes, accidents in the decorating trade can be costly and knock you off schedule. You may also be personally liable for any accidents or injuries you cause during the course of your business.

If you don’t have business insurance in place, you’d need to consider how would you pay for damages, injuries, compensation, equipment replacement, loss of income? In most cases if you have employees then you are required by law to take out employers’ liability cover, as it’s designed to protect you against claims following an injury sustained by an employee whilst at work. So why wouldn’t you want to fully protect your livelihood, the business you’ve worked so hard to build?

The insurance professionals at Premierline, the recommended broker to PDA Members, will help ensure your business is properly protected. You can call them for professional advice and insurance recommendations for your business.

What’s more, by utilising an insurance broker’s buying power the rates could be competitive against what is available if you purchased directly through a price comparison site. The added benefit being you can be assured your requirements have been assessed fully.

Call today on 0330 102 6155 and don’t leave your business at risk!

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

ADVICE for

our Members

NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE YOU MAY HAVE seen in the press that HMRC have reinstated their ‘naming and shaming’ policy when it comes to employers caught out by the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) legislation.

In the past, a number of large, prestigious employers (John Lewis being a good example) have fallen foul of this legislation, but we see a real mixture of employers being caught out.

HMRC will focus on industries where they know there are low paid workers, so where you have employees on low pay rates you need to be particularly mindful of this legislation.

HMRC have a significant team of people working in this and we have seen a huge focus on this area by them over the past few years. Now that their naming and shaming policy has been given the green light again, we are expecting a further increase of their focus on this topic.

Who is entitled and what are the rates of the NMW and NLW? You must be at least: • School leaving age to get the National Minimum Wage • Aged 25 to get the National Living Wage With effect from April 2020, the rates for NMW and NLW are as follows: 25 or over: £8.72 21 – 24: £8.20 18 – 20: £6.45 Under 18: £4.55 Apprentice: £4.15

Apprentices As an industry that historically has utilised apprentices, it is important that you are aware of the specifics relating to this category of worker when it comes to NMW. As per the above section, there is a specific rate of NMW applicable to apprentices. Workers are entitled to be paid at the apprentice rate of NMW if they’re either: • aged under 19 • aged 19 or over in the first year of their apprenticeship

age so, as an example, an apprentice aged 21 who has completed the first year of their apprenticeship would be entitled to be paid at a rate of £8.20 per hour.

How do employers get it wrong?

On the face of it, it should be a piece of legislation that isn’t difficult for employers to get right – the minimum hourly rates are legislated and provided you pay at least that then all should be OK. However, if that was the case then why do so many employers still get caught out by this legislation?

The reasons employers fail to comply vary and include topping up pay with tips, deducting sums for uniforms, and employer provided accommodation. One of the common things that catches employers out is where an employee, for example, starts getting paid at 9am but also has to be ‘ready to work’ from 9am, which in reality means they need to arrive at work at 8:45 to get changed in to their work clothes and then on the ‘shop floor’ for 9am. They therefore ‘work’ for 15 minutes before the time they start to get paid. If in this scenario they are paid at or very close to NMW, those additional 15 minutes of work could take their effective hourly pay below NMW and therefore the employer is in breach of legislation.

If you employ workers who are paid at, or close to, NMW then it is important that you review these individuals on a regular basis to ensure there is nothing happening with their working hours or pay that could potentially result in you falling foul of the legislation.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

In addition to the naming and shaming that comes with being caught out by this legislation, there are also pretty severe financial penalties for employers caught in breach of it. The penalty can be as much as 200% of arrears owed to workers, with the maximum penalty being £20,000 per worker.

If an apprentice does not meet the above conditions they are entitled to be paid at the NMW rate applicable to their

FREE DOWNLOADS AND DISCOUNTS ON H&S PACKAGES Health and Safety is important. It protects the well being of employers, visitors and customers, and makes good business sense. Workplaces which neglect health and safety risk prosecution and may increase costs and reduce profitability.

Being safe at work is a responsibility shared by both the employer and the employee. For employers, one of the fundamental principles of workplace health and safety is risk assessment which identifies all the hazards and potential for harm whilst working.

As an employer, you must appoint a competent person or people to help you meet your health and safety legal duties. A competent person should have the skills, knowledge and experience needed to help you manage health and safety in your business. This can be yourself, a staff member or an external business.

Some of the different tasks where risks are involved are: sanding, filling, painting or spraying.

This can expose you to a number of substances including solvents, lead, construction dust, asbestos, and other hazardous substances like pigments, resins and catalysts.

How significant exposure is will depend upon what you are doing, how you are doing it and where you are working.

HS Direct aim to take the stress and headache out of health and safety, letting you spend time and focus on what you do best. They have set up a bespoke PDA webpage for Members with many useful free templates to download along with access to a wealth of informative articles.

PDA Members are also being offered a 10% discount on the HS Direct Safety First Package – log into the Members Area and follow the link in your portal for exclusive discounts and to learn more on how HS Direct can help.

PENSION RE-ENROLMENT AND RE-DECLARATION UNDER THE PENSIONS Act 2008, every employer in the UK must put certain staff into a workplace pension. If you have any staff who are aged between 22 up to state pension age, and earn over £10,000 per year (£833 per month or £192 per week), you must put them into your pension scheme, and you must both pay into it. This is called 'automatic enrolment'.

The Pensions Regulator is responsible for ensuring that all employers comply with workplace pension law. It's important that you understand what you'll need to do and prepare early. Employees may opt out of joining the pension scheme but

there are still ongoing regulations for any employer of staff. Every three years you must put certain staff who have left your pension scheme back into it. This is called re-enrolment.

Whether you have staff to put back into your scheme or not, you must complete a re-declaration of compliance to tell The Pensions Regulator how you have met your duties. Remember, re-enrolment and re-declaration are your legal duties and if you don't act you could be fined.

Depending on your circumstances, re-enrolment and re-declaration may be a two-stage process.

Full details of Automatic Enrolment, ongoing employer duties and re-enrolment compliance can be found on The Pensions Regulator website www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk/employers

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

P&D SHOW GEARS UP EARLY FOR SUCCESS THE PDA WILL once again have a major presence at this year’s National Painting and Decorating Show, the trade’s annual showcase for products, services and innovation.

In addition to holding our AGM during the course of the event at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena, the Association will be flagging up the many benefits of membership on stand 64 and Members are very welcome to come and meet the team and give your details for the prize draw.

Among new features at this year’s show will be a business forum, where speakers will highlight ways in which decorators can add value to their business through ‘up-skilling’ into allied trades. Full details will be announced soon.

Also sure to be a major attraction is SprayBase, an open theatre where exhibitors involved in the many aspects of spraying will impart their specialist knowledge.

All this alongside the event’s popular MasterClass presentations, show-only offers, ‘howto’ demos and much, much more.

For free tickets go to www.paintshow.co.uk

LAMD PRESIDENT HEADS TO KENT On 4 March, as President of the LAMD, I very interesting and rewarding day judging Painting and Decorating students at the annual KFE skills competition at MidKent College.

Kent4Fe brings all Further Education Colleges in Kent together to promote their students success and find the best painting and decorating student from across the county.

The standard of the work was very high and it was great to see the level of effort put into the work by all of the students, pictured left.

Les Barber

PRICE ADJUSTMENT FORMULAE FOR CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS * Provisional Series 2 - Decorations: 2/44 June 1976 = 100

Series 3 - Finishes: Painting & Decorating: 3/48 June 1990 = 100 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

14

Jan

910

939

941

961

992 1018 1047 1085 1120*

Jan

275

283

284

290

299

307

316

327

337*

Feb

911

940

941

961

993 1019 1048 1085 1119*

Feb

275

284

284

290

299

307

316

327

337*

Mar

913

942

942

961

992 1020 1049 1086 1120*

Mar

276

284

284

290

299

307

316

327

337*

Apr

912

942

941

969

992 1019 1048 1094

Apr

275

284

284

292

299

307

316

329

May

910

941

941

969

992 1020 1048 1093

May

274

284

284

292

299

307

316

329

June

912

937

941

969

992 1020 1048 1092

June

275

283

284

292

299

307

316

329*

July

915

937

961

993

992 1046 1083 1120

July

276

283

290

299

299

316

326

337

Aug

915

937

961

993 1016 1047 1083 1120

Aug

276

283

290

299

307

316

326

337

Sep

915

937

961

993 1015 1047 1083 1120

Sep

276

283

290

299

307

316

326

337

Oct

915

937

960

993 1013 1047 1085 1120

Oct

276

283

289

299

306

316

327

337

Nov

924

937

960

993 1015 1047 1085 1120

Nov

279

283

289

299

306

316

327

337

Dec

924

937

961

992 1015 1047 1084 1120

Dec

279

283

290

299

306

316

327

337

The Price Adjustment Formulae Indices are monthly indices used in conjunction with formula methods for adjusting construction contracts which are not fixed priced. They are sometimes known as the NEDO, Baxter or Osborne Indices. The formulae calculate the increase or decrease in contractors' costs over any period, to the nearest month. This method of reimbursement helps speed up payment to contractors and reduces administrative costs. The indices published above are for decorating work and are compiled from labour and materials costs. Series 3 is the latest series and recommended for use on all new contracts. Series 2 continues to be published for contracts which still require their use.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

S R E F F O E EXCLUSIV S R E B M E M A FOR PD

As part of the PDA’s ongoing pursuit of providing useful benefits to our Members, we’ve teamed up with our Associate Partners to bring you some exclusive offers!

START YOUR NEW TAX YEAR RIGHT! We’ve got five free one year subscriptions of of GoSimpleTax software up for grabs, the HMRC recognised, simple solution for Self-Assessment worth £49.00 •Calculate your tax liability for you without any jargon for any tax year •Get hints and tips on tax savings •Submits direct to HMRC – whenever you are ready!

•Unlimited online support Five Members will get free access to the software by sending emailing us quoting your company or PDA Membership number.

As a bonus, all Members who enter will receive a link for a two-week free trial and 30% off the software!

email gosimple@the-decorator.co.uk by 30 April 2020

Try out the next generation of water-based woodwork paints HMG Paints have released their premium interior trim and woodwork paints in a gloss and satin finish, and some Members of the PDA can try it for free!

The gloss and satin offer a premium quality water-based, protective finish for use on interior woodwork. Avoiding the yellowing of oil-based paint over time, this water-based equivalent has excellent colour retention as well as superior coverage. The trim paints have enhanced ease of flow by brush, roller, or spray application.

• • • •

Fast drying Advanced flow Durable, tough finish Superior adhesion

• • • •

Surface protection Low VOC & odour Child safe (EN71-3 certified) Made in Britain

Simply email hmg@the-decorator.co.uk and quote your company or PDA Membership number Entries must be received by 31 May 2020!

16

Winners agree to the use of his/her name to be used in any publicity material, as well as their entry. Any personal data relating to the winners or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current [UK] data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent.

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NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS

TOOLSdown A QUICK Q&A WITH PDA MEMBER BY SPONSORED

Jennifer Anderson-Dixon

How long have you been a painter and decorator?

8 years

Do you have a specialist area?

I do design and styling for interiors along with the painting. I also do Era colour matching to the buildings.

How long have you been a Member of the PDA? I’m new to the PDA, just three months.

How has membership of the PDA benefitted you?

Being part of an organisation with the quality logo.

How do you market your business?

I use social media and networking groups and I am a member of BNI.

Are you on social media?

Yes, I’m on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram

Do you have any tips on maintaining a successful business?

Thanks for sh aring Jennife r, an Axus Déco r goodie bag is on it's way to you!

When something comes in don’t put things off, if you deal with things as best you can there and then, things don’t mount up. Be proud of what you’ve achieved – you’ve worked hard for it!

What would you say to encourage young people to become a painter and decorator?

It is very satisfying and rewarding, everyone can pick up a paint brush but not everyone can paint – learn your trade well and you’ll be sought after and respected within your work community.

Are you currently training any apprentices?

Not yet.

What are the most annoying problems you come across in your work?

I work in a lot of old buildings and they are often cold and damp. It affects drying times and adhesion of the paint and when you’re on a tight timescale it can be really problematic!

What do you most like about your job?

Turning tired spaces into something beautiful – everyone should be able to have a lovely space to live in.

What products could you recommend to other decorators?

I’ve just been using Deltec tape – it’s very good especially the sensitive one.

I’m going to try the Axus Dark Mage paint brush next.

Jennifer is a Member of the PDA in Brighton, trading as Bluebird Interiors, call on 07483 297797 or visit www.facebook.com/bluebirdinteriors247

18

NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS

BAGNALLS CELEBRATE THEIR HERITAGE ON 13 MARCH 2020, Bagnalls celebrated their 145th anniversary. Established in 1875 by Alfred Bagnall, the company remains family owned and managed. Throughout its history, Bagnalls has worked for many well-known names, including the Morris factory in Oxford, Goodyear Tyre and Rubber Company in Wolverhampton, ICI in Huddersfield and Ford in Dagenham, as well as Marks & Spencer, Gala Bingo, Network Rail and the British Museum.

The contract that founded the business was the painting of the Lattice Girder bridge over the River Aire at

Charlestown, just outside Shipley. The price achieved was 9d (Ninepence) per yard for three coats, labour and materials. The customer accepted the quote and the job was signed for over a 6d stamp, on 13 March 1875.

Alfred Bagnall continued to successfully deliver painting and decorating contracts across Yorkshire and the surrounding regions to both domestic homeowners and local businesses including the Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway Company.

Bagnalls first apprentice was called Walter Unwin, and their first documented evidence of apprenticeships is in

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NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS 1899, when Fred Spencer was awarded a prize by the Yorkshire Master Painters’ Federation. This legacy has continued to be upheld by every generation of Bagnalls, with the company’s apprenticeship programme being highly commended within the industry.

Their relationships with suppliers also date back to Victorian times, when they tested samples of dry colours and oil stainers, produced by various paint manufacturers, for their strength and staining power.

Stephen Bagnall, Group Managing Director, and fifth generation of the Bagnall family to head up this prestigious business spoke proudly of the company’s rich heritage said, “Bagnalls remains a specialist painting and decorating contractor after 145 years of trading.

“Our services were needed during the World Wars when we supported the War Department, Air Ministry and Army to camouflage aerodromes, balloon sheds and hospitals. One of the company’s most notable contracts was painting the Twin Towers Wembley Stadium, where 200 tons of paint were used to coat the steel structure.

Now our customers vary from respected universities and NHS Trusts through to utilities and manufacturing.

“While the business is always looking forward, I have a lot of respect for what has been done by my forefathers and generations of employees before me. I am just here for a period of time before somebody else will take on the baton. That’s the way I see it, I am a custodian.

I have been entrusted to look after the business, so it comes with great responsibility. I would love to know what great Alfred, as we call him, would have thought about the company now.”

NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS

STORY GROUP WIN REGIONAL FAMILY BUSINESS AWARD

Staff from Story Decorating Group celebrate their win at the North West Family Business Awards under the shadow of Concorde, in the events centre at Manchester Airport.

FRIDAY 6 MARCH saw Story Decorating Group invited to the Concorde Hangar at Manchester Airport to represent Cumbria in the property and construction section of the North West Family Business Awards 2020.

With a base in Salford and head offices in Cumbria, Story Decorating Group beat strong competition to win the award, with a record number of 192 businesses entering the awards from across the North West region.

This first-class event was held under the wings of Concorde in the purpose-built hangar and events centre at Manchester Airport with host, food writer, and presenter Nigel Barden. Quite a special event for Story given that they are currently completing the works on the new Terminal 2 extension at Manchester Airport after completing the new Pier & Link, Multi Storey Car park and new Pier 2 stub.

Claire Story, Communications Manager for Story was still getting over the shock of their success, she said, "To have made the final of these awards was already a massive achievement for us. Being given the chance to represent Cumbria against such amazing competition from Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Merseyside was an outstanding achievement in itself, but actually bringing the award back home to Cumbria is just unreal.

“The whole event was fabulous from start to finish and winning shows that our business is exactly what the awards suggests, a business with family values at its foundation and one that its staff and owners can be extremely proud of.”

Founder and co-director of the awards, Sue Howorth said, “We were inundated with some incredible entries and the judges had extremely difficult decisions to make so the all of the finalists should be extremely proud of themselves!”

As winners, Story Decorating Group will now go on to represent Cumbria at the Family Business of the Year Awards at London’s Mayfair Hotel in June.

IW APPOINTED BY EXCLUSIVE RETIREMENT VILLAGE AS IT CONTINUES to grow its share of property services provision within the private retirement living sector, Ian Williams has been appointed by specialist operator, Retirement Villages, on a project to improve the external aesthetics of the company’s Avonpark village.

Avonpark is an age exclusive retirement village set in 15 acres of landscaped grounds overlooking the Avon Valley, just six miles from popular spa town of Bath and aims to give residents their ‘very own slice of village life.’

The Spring programme, which will take around eight weeks to complete, will see a specialist Ian Williams’ team carry out full decorations including any associated repairs, as well as replacing fascias and soffits and upgrading the current timber fenestration to energy efficient PVC-U windows.

Painting is a science and the specification of the correct products is vital to the success of any project so, working with a representative from supplier partner AkzoNobel’s Colour Team, the paint chosen was Georgian Elegance to ensure that the aesthetics were in keeping with the region’s architectural heritage.

Ian Williams is proud to work with award-winning pioneers of retirement living. Like Avonpark, whose mission it is to be an exemplar and leader in the sector, they’ve recognised that they can only achieve this leadership by constantly providing better services, delivered more efficiently, and generating higher levels of customer satisfaction. Ian Williams looks forward to playing its part.

For more information, visit www.ianwilliams.co.uk

22

The Ian Williams Foundation has donated £1,032 to BUST Bristol, the Breast Cancer Unit Support Trust at Southmead Hospital. Their Head Office Christmas raffle raised an amazing £516 which was matched by the Ian Williams Foundation.

The nomination to donate to BUST was made by Commercial Administrator, Michelle Robinson, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2019.

After waiting three weeks for her own scan, Michelle is acutely aware of the importance of reduced patient waiting times that will result from the dedicated MRI scanner. The Bristol based charity founded by patients, for patients, to support the work of the Bristol Breast Care Centre at Southmead Hospital is raising money to fund an MRI scanner for the Centre as well as other medical equipment.

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NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS

PAINTING A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR HOUSING CHARITY

CROWN PAINTS HAS supported its supply chain partner and property services company Ian Williams in transforming the lives of vulnerable young people in South Gloucestershire by supplying paint products for the full refurbishment of a local hostel.

Managed by 1625 Independent People, Southwold House in Yate provides supported accommodation for young people aged between 16 and 25 who are either currently homeless or at risk of becoming so.

The hostel has been fully redecorated and modernised, with Ian Williams providing its services and expertise free of charge and enlisting the help of its supply chain to donate products. The residents of Southwold House can now enjoy a warm and welcoming home, which has been decorated to the highest standards and designed to provide a mix of facilities, from areas for quiet reflection or study to communal spaces such as a bright and modern kitchen and dining room.

Crown Paints has provided various products to help enhance the appearance of the interior rooms as well as contribute to reducing the cost of future maintenance requirements.

Crown Trade’s high performance Clean Extreme Stain Resistant Scrubbable Matt emulsion was the ideal

choice for creating colourful and easy to clean walls, and was used in a variety of colours in a number of different rooms.

The ceilings within the house also benefitted from Crown Trade’s Matt Vinyl paint which offers a flat nonreflective finish that helps to hide any surface imperfections. All Crown Trade products were supplied by the local Crown Decorating Centre in Bristol.

Mike Turner, Ian Williams’ executive director commented, “Supporting 1625 Independent People with the refurbishment of Southwold House was an easy decision for Ian Williams and our Foundation. We work in thousands of homes and communities across the UK every year, so knew we could offer expertise, a highly skilled delivery team, project management and the support of a large supplier network, including Crown.

“The end result is something really brilliant that will have a long-lasting and positive impact on people’s lives. It has been a privilege to work with the charity and we’re so proud to have created an attractive environment for living, learning and relaxing.”

Crown’s business development manager Ian Lealand added, “Having worked with Ian Williams on a number of different contracts over the years, it was a real privilege to be invited to be involved in the refurbishment of Southwold House and to support the valuable charitable work of 1625 Independent People. This is an important facility for many vulnerable young people in the area and we are pleased to have been involved in its refurbishment and to help ensure that it remains a homely and comfortable haven for many more years to come.” www.crownpaintspec.co.uk www.ianwilliams.co.uk

MEMORIAL GARDEN MADE OVER

24

MEGAN HURLEY WILL never be forgotten at Halewood Academy. She was a bright, lively, and caring 15-year-old who loved life, until it was so cruelly taken away from her, along with 21 others during the horrific terror attack at the Manchester Arena on 22 May 2017.

Those who had the privilege to meet Megan will know what a loving and beautiful girl she was, Megan was well known for her caring nature and loved to help others. Megan’s friends came up with the idea of creating a memorial garden at Halewood Academy as a way to keep her memory alive.

In August 2019, PDA Member firm Bagnalls approached Halewood Academy to see if they could be of any assistance

in refreshing Megan’s Garden with some added colour. Their Community Paintbrush scheme is there to support special projects such as this.

The offer of support was welcomed with open arms by everyone at the school. School staff and Megan’s parents discussed some ideas prior to arrival and were thrilled with the transformation that was achieved. www.bagnalls.co.uk

THE

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION

RESULTS OF MAJOR PROJECTS REVEALED

Left to Right: Callum Merriman from Graco with Luke, Colin and Clare Wild of Alliance Painting Ltd their dog Finley and Neil Ogilvie of the PDA.

BACK IN 2017, UNIEP started several European Projects co-financed by the European Commission under the Erasmus+ programme. The strategy came from the analysis of the painting sector and challenges at the time.

The key issues to be addressed were: • A lack of young people entering the profession • Knowledge of market innovations by contractors and training institutes UNIEP can now annonuce the results of the two pan European Projects, In Paint and Paint Up, set up to address these two issues.

In Paint Through mapping of the different Work-Based Learning systems, WBL Observatory (Interactive Open source Platform) has been launched as the first European open access portal entirely dedicated to the painting and decorating sector.

This collaborative and interactive concept aims at gathering all the existing useful tools and resources for the painting and decorating stakeholders, directly involving users to share knowledge, training, innovation and skills, in an evolving process for creating best practices and fostering inspiration.

Secondly, with the aim to better professionalise the sector and to increase the effectiveness of WBL, a WBL Developer, managed by the national associations, has been created to represent the pillar of cooperation among professional associations, VET providers and companies supporting them in the WBL process.

This new qualified person will help to detect the training needs of the SMEs and to provide the lastest innovative techniques from the manufacturers and training tools. Their crucial role is to facilitate the relationship between companies and vocational schools, and promote of the image of the profession to increase the recruitment of young qualified painters.

Paint Up This contributed to reinforce the tutor's role in WorkBased Learning involving VET institutes and companies in the painting sector.

Gathering the different traditions of the tutor's role the project has brought together different perspectives and established a framework for tutors which can support the decorating companies in other European countries.

France and Belgium have more well established work-based learning schemes, Slovakia have recently started and the UK offers a very specific model more linked to the employers.

Among the main achievements are the Mapping of the Tutors’ function in Painting SMEs, Handbook and Guidelines for tutors, and innovative online training aimed at tutors and structured in four different units, each of which includes different learning tools such as videos, documents, presentations, and examples of good practices and training tools.

26

PRIZE WIN TO HELP TRAIN PAINTERS OF THE FUTURE A NOTTINGHAM-BASED painting and decorating contractor is striving forward with its apprenticeship scheme thanks to state-of-the-art technology from Graco.

Alliance Painting Ltd took delivery of a Graco 190 PC Express electric airless sprayer as part of the prize draw organised by the PDA. The company was chosen at random from the names of Members who had paid their Membership fees by the end of February.

Established by Colin Wild and Alistair Lord in 2013, Alliance Painting Ltd use airless spray technology daily, for nation-wide projects including multi-storey car parks, warehouses and factories.

Neil Ogilvie, Chief Executive of the PDA and Callum Merriman of Graco, presented Colin Wild with the sprayer. Colin said, “We were delighted to find out that we had won the PDA prize draw.

“At the moment we have three Graco machines and hire up to five more every week, it’s such a huge part of our work. Apprentices are at the heart of our company and currently we have two training. The 190 PC Express will be a great learning tool for them, helping them get to grips with airless paint spraying and building their confidence to move on to our larger Graco models.”

Neil Ogilvie added, “Well done to the team at Alliance Painting Ltd, it is great to see such an established business on board, training the painters and decorators of the future. And thank you to Graco for their continued support.”

TRAINING SURVEY OUR MEMBERS HAVE SPOKEN...

OVER THE LAST couple of months, the PDA team has been busy planning the year ahead, looking at how the Association’s support, events and initiatives can help Members maximise their Membership. One of the key areas identified to help do this is training and making continued professional development (CPD) opportunities available to Members.

On the PDA social media channels and e-newsletters we have been asking you to complete our training survey – and now the results are in.

Out of all responses, 97% of people consider CPD to be important, but 42% haven’t attended a training course in the last 12 months. Manufacturing workshops and practical sessions came out on top, over specialist seminars, as what Members would be most interested in attending, plus 97% would be willing to pay for those too.

Members also identified the top three topics where they felt training was most needed, Specialist Decorating Techniques, Marketing & Social Media and Estimating &

Measurement Rates. A further question recognised that 63% would be willing to take part in training courses that were either face-to-face learning or access online – 27% voted for just face-to-face learning, whilst the remaining 10% preferred to take part over the internet only.

When it came to what day of the week people preferred, Saturday came out on top, with Monday coming in a very close second and the majority of respondents willing to take part in training courses for the full day.

Finally, 41% of people who took part in the survey would be happy to travel 50 miles plus for a training event, whilst 31% said it would have to be within 40 miles and the remaining in either a 10 or 20 mile radius.

The PDA would like to thank all those members who took part in the survey, it’s really important for the ongoing development of the association.

You can still have your say, complete the survey at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/pda_survey_report

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TRAINING AND EDUCATION

#notjust forboys AS PREPARATIONS GET underway for Ian Williams’ 2020 apprentice and trainee surveyor vacancies to go live, The Decorator catches up with the business, one of the UK’s largest paintering and decoratoring contractors, about the growing popularity of painting apprenticeships for women wanting to start a career in the sector.

We caught up with three of them after Ian Williams’ recent National Apprenticeship Week Qualification Celebration Lunch and asked one apprentice, who has just qualified, why she has decided to do it.

And let’s not forget Painting and Decorating Apprentice Zoe Evans (pictured right), who at the end of last year came away with not one, but three awards at the CITB Apprenticeship Awards 2019. The 21-year old beat the competition to win Regional Apprentice of the Year Wales West, Apprentice of the Year Wales, and exceptionally, Apprentice of the Year, Great Britain.

All of these women are fantastic ambassadors for the construction industry and Ian Williams is already speaking to even more young people looking for a career in this thriving sector as the 2020 applications for apprentices and trainee surveyor vacancies are now open. www.ianwilliams.co.uk

Emily Walker Painter and Decorator Amongst the apprentices who completed their training this year was painter and decorator, Emily Walker. Achieving Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Painting & Decorating, Emily whole-heartedly recommends an apprenticeship with Ian Williams and praised the support of her peers in helping her to gain the qualification, whilst learning on-the-job.

Emily commented how developing her communications and life skills have been just as important as the painting and decorating skills she has learned, “Like any job, an apprenticeship can be hard at times, but my advice is to stick at it and push through. You won’t regret it. I’ve had an amazing time, hard work and fun, and I’m so glad I started the journey.

In five years, I’d love to be in the same position as my foreman who has been a brilliant mentor, who I really look up to.”

Nicola Nash Quantity Surveyor Nicola Nash started her journey with Ian Williams in business support and has developed to become a Surveyor in Wiltshire, thanks to the support of her team – and her love of numbers!

Nicola said, “During the process I’ve gained a clear idea of the progression I want for my career, through learning on-the-job surveyor skills, combined with the more operational and commercial aspects of the role. My advice to anyone is go for it, especially in Ian Williams because the whole company is 100% behind you.”

Molly Hill Apprentice Painter and Decorator Molly Hill is one of Ian Williams newest apprentices and at 16 years’ old, she already had her heart set on this career.

Molly comments, “I wanted to do something active in my work and I’ve loved painting rooms at home, so it made sense. I chose an apprenticeship because I know it’s important to learn a trade, and I also wanted to start earning my own money.

“I’m really happy working at Ian Williams as I love the team and working on site, where I’ve learned to take feedback in a positive way. I’d like to finish my apprenticeship as soon as I can, and then move on to becoming a foreperson and run my own projects at Ian Williams.”

28

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gallery

The

Janmar Decorative Solutions A very stylish redecoration of this hall, stairs and landing. The new look was created using Mylands Marble Matt Emulsion paint on the walls and Mylands Satin on the woodwork.

Steven Field A stunning wall can be achieved in very different settings with the application of wall murals.

Shown here from Steven Field in a domestic and work environment.

Story Decorating Group Story Group undertook the spectacular redecoration of the Roxburghe Hotel as contract work. This included many different wallpapers from no less than eight different suppliers. The team at Story used mechanical sanders with dust extraction to get the walls into the best condition possible prior to applying paper, and paint which was all specified from Dulux Trade.

You too can enter The Gallery for free!

For your chance to win ÂŁ100 of vouchers from Brewers and feature on our front cover, send in your pictures to thegallery@the-decorator.co.uk For use in the magazine and to be considered for the cover, we need high resolution, clear images.

30

On the Cover

Robert Woodland and Son Guilders Robert Woodland and Deborah Miller have been working on the once in a century refurbishment of the grand organ at York Minster. The detailed work of re-painting the decorative pipes began on-site in January. Here are some examples of the work which we will be featuring in full in a later issue.

G BORG High Class Painting & Decorating @gborgdecorators

Home Maintenance Services Brilliant bedroom redecorations for two brothers with a Tiger and Surfer feature wall installations from wallsauce.com. The walls were painted with a mix from the Dulux colour palette in an Easycare finish.

A lovely nursery makeover with the whole bedroom prepped and sanded down using a Mirka Leros sander. The ceiling was finished in white matt, walls were painted in Farrow & Ball Cromarty and all woodwork was finished in Farrow & Ball Elephants Breath. A custom-made wallpaper was ordered and used as the feature wall.

£100 of vouchers from Brewers are now on the way to G.BORG for their winning Gallery entry!

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31

ADVICE AND TIPS

Getting customers that you want

We choose our customers just as much as they choose us We all have our favourite customers, it’s only natural. Some we like for personal reasons – they stick the kettle on and break open the biscuit barrel the minute we arrive. Some give us the kind of work we love, and trust our skills and advice. Some are more profitable for our business.

But how many of us have really worked out what kinds of customers we want in the future, and how to get them? I was a decorator for 14 years, and it took me time to learn and get the kind of work I really enjoyed, and also brought in a decent income. Sometimes it’s not easy to work out what we really want to do, and how to get there. So here are a few pointers to help.

List your best customers

What work do you want to do?

A marketing analyst told me a few years ago to make a list of my best

In my last article in The Decorator, I suggested you think about where

clients: who they were, the types of jobs, how profitable those jobs were

you want to be in 10 years time. It’s useful to break that down into

per hour, how good the clients were at paying, how much repeat business

shorter time spans. Work out what kind of work you want this year,

I got from them, and how much I enjoyed each job.

whether it’s more hand-painted kitchens, exteriors, papering, spraying,

I went back over nearly two years of contracts and made a list. It

schools, factories...

showed up jobs I’d underpriced or priced well, I gave a rough score out of ten based on how much I’d enjoyed each job.

Where do you want to work?

I worked out that my ideal spread of work was a split between

Once you’ve worked out what kinds of clients and types of jobs you want

long-term upgrades of old, large properties, and short-term quick

to do, work out where those jobs are? If it’s commercial or industrial,

turnarounds of rentals and commercial jobs. That split worked well for

where is that work near you? If it’s domestic, what neighbourhoods would

me financially and in terms of job satisfaction. It’s an illuminating

be ideal to target?

exercise to do yourself. Make a list of your past customers and break down who were the best ones and why. That ‘why’ is really important.

How to get the customers you want Now you know the why, what and where. The next bit is most important – how do you get the kinds of customers you want?

My first tip is to switch it around – think like your ideal customer. What are they looking for in a decorator? I can guarantee it’s not just ‘a good job at a decent price’. There will be a load of other factors: whether they know, like and trust you as a person, whether they’ve been recommended to you, whether you can show you’ve done the kind of work they need doing, and whether they like your whole ‘brand’.

By ‘brand’ I don’t mean a logo. A brand is what people think of you

with Charlie Budd 32

when you’re not in the room. Does your brand say ‘tidy, reliable,

ADVICE AND TIPS

Tips for using water based paint on woodwork Water based paints are on the up rise, with more and more professionals making the switch every day and end customers courteous, on time, a good communicator, skilled, quality, good value’?

Everything in your business is your brand – your website, your social media, how you dress, how you communicate with people, how your

choosing those who work with water based paints over those who use oil based.

vehicle looks, how your equipment looks.

If your ‘brand’ image doesn’t align with what your ideal customer is looking for, then maybe you need to change your brand, or perhaps your ideal client isn’t who you thought it was.

For example, I deliberately wrote detailed blogs on aspects of decorating

Is Water based as good as Oil based?

As it is now possible to manufacture water based alternatives, British manufacturers HMG Paints Ltd are ahead of the game with the largest Research and Development laboratory in the UK.

old properties – things like restoring cast iron lattice windows. I went into so much detail that potential customers knew I was skilled, thorough and conscientious, and I got lots of work from it.

How you turn up, both online and in person, can have a big impact on what a potential customer thinks about you, and how likely they are to hire you.

Are they applied the same?

Water based trim paints are applied differently to oil based paints and it is important to familiarise yourself with the techniques before diving straight in.

• Keep your brush wet from the start and throughout the process.

Rinse at intervals or spray the brush with water to keep wet.

The work starts now

• Thin gloss or satin trim paint if necessary,

There will always be dozens of ways you can improve your business to get more of the customers you want. So now it’s in your hands – make a list of who you want to be working for in six months time, make a list of what they’re looking for in a decorating firm, and make a list of what you need to change to get those customers.

just use water to extend working time!

• Dampening surfaces with a wet sponge aids application and avoids dragging.

• Key the surface, especially when applying over old oil or a previously painted surface.

The future of your decorating firm is in your hands, what are you going to do about it?

• Use a tack rag then the damp cloth.

• For best results use over a water based primer undercoat, by the same manufacturer!

Want to know more?

Find me on social media!

Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn

Charlie Budd @thetallphotographer @charliebudd Charles Budd

• Preparation and priming are key to the perfect finish.

• If spraying, ensure your gun is suitable for use with water based coatings.

• Make sure gun is fully clean and dry from previous use.

33

SECTOR NEWS

P&Dnews HMG BRANCHES OUT HMG Paints have announced their full decorative range will be available via TopDec Decorating Supplies, who have opened a new store in Hemel Hempstead, and on their website, www.topdecbrush.co.uk offering colour matching as well as next day delivery. the next huge step with decorative distributor.

The new store also stocks HMG’s recently launched next generation interior gloss and satin for professional painters and decorators. The gloss and satin offer a premium quality water-based, protective finish for use on interior woodwork. Avoiding the yellowing of oil-based paint over time, this water-based equivalent has excellent colour retention as well as superior coverage and applies with enhanced ease of flow by brush, roller, or spray application.

Brian Green and Ray Kercher, ready to help at the new store.

Established in 2017, TopDec co-founders Brian Green and Ray Kercher launched TopDec Decorating Supplies alongside TopDec Painting and Decorating Services which is managed by Ray, an established decorator with over 16 years decorating experience.

Brian and Ray have focused their full offering on quality British manufactured products from dust sheets, to fillers, to paint spraying equipment, as a one stop shop for decorating equipment and paint made in the UK. TopDec chose HMG Paints’ as their paint partner due to them being a socially responsible British company who produce premium quality paints and have the largest research and development laboratory in the UK, utilising the latest technologies in paint.

“We have used many different paints within the market, and nothing comes close to the quality of HMG Paints range. The coverage and durability of the products means a quality job for professional decorators”, said Brian Green.

“We do not sell any products that I don’t use in my decorating business and HMG Paints’ knowledge and expertise has resulted in a perfect package of products for a decorating business such as mine”, continued Ray Kercher.

TopDec offer colour matching services with next day delivery via www.topdecbrush.co.uk, or ‘Click and Collect’ at 18 High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE.

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CASE STUDY

Sermon on the Mount REVISITED

A

s specialist decorators and conservators, Campbell Smith & Co Ltd are often called upon to lend their expertise to the renovation of historical artefacts. One of these was a legacy project to undertake the conservation of a rare, ecclesiastical triptych by the wartime mural artist, Colin Gill, and the surrounding timber reredos.

The trip

With a timescale of four weeks for the complete restoration and consolidation of The Sermon on the Mount Triptych circa.1924, by Colin Unwin Gill (1892 -1940), oil on wood panels at St. Andrews Church, Ilford, Campbell Smith & Co Ltd took us through how they go about such a project...

Our first step is a site visit to meet client, and desk-based survey of the significance of the work, with supporting research. On-site

scheme of conservation and restoration works undertaken to the painting and reredos.

condition survey, with detailed investigations into the material

The delicate work requires some very detailed processes to be put in

construction of the painting, using a range of analytical techniques, and

place. Firstly, on these historic objects, we have to formulate and test a

an assessment of environmental influences on condition.

suitable pH adjusted gel cleaning system and applying to the dirt film.

We then prepare and provide a report with treatment recommendations.

There is then pre-consolidation and consolidation of friable gesso halos,

Once this is agreed with the client, we then start to carry out the

using a combination of compatible materials for varying levels of decay.

Removal of previous restoration varnish.

36

Cleaning is a delicate process which requires careful formulation of a pH adjusted gel.

CASE STUDY

Materials Used Non-invasive analytical tools including microscopy Bespoke gel cleaning system Neutral pH molecular trap putty Acrylic dispersions Antique oak spacers Areas of gold leaf had suffered badly from peeling and flaking, particularly around the main ‘halo’.

tych was very dirty and required extensive specialist cleaning work.

A side panel had a large crack, which needed careful retouching.

We then move onto compensation and reintegration of loss, including careful and precise preparation to the repaired surface, ready for the paint and gilding system. We also undertake sensitive, non-interventive timber repairs to rebalance distortion due to environmental factors.

The location of the triptych meant that the team was working at height discreetly behind the altar while maintaining functionally for the congregation attending church. We employed a flexible approach balancing this need with our timescale and budget. Overall the project ran very smoothly.

The client was happy, and the work was completed to a high standard, coming within budget and time. The reredos and triptych were cleaned and conserved, with increased structural stabilisation, and the rehanging of the doors to improve functionality.

A rededication ceremony was undertaken to celebrate the completion of the project and reaffirm the object within the religious context. The donor was pleased that three generations of his family were able to see the outcome of what was an incredibly important project to him and his late wife.

Campbell Smith & Co Ltd are part of the Cousins Group and Members of the PDA based in Hampshire. You can get in touch with them on 01252 618002 or visit their website at www.campbellsmithandco.co.uk

37

CASE STUDY

Shaker Style Show Stopper

R

owhan’s Decorating were recommended to Downhall Joinery who then contacted them regarding a handmade bespoke MDF kitchen they were fitting for one of their customers. The quote for the work was submitted and accepted as Steven Rowhan told The Decorator...

We were in direct contact with the homeowner to outline the job and

The whole kitchen was then sanded using the Festool dust extractor

how we would work around the builder who was also working at the

system with 220 grade sandpaper. Mirka Gold Flex 220 grade sandpaper

property. The project was scheduled in for 15 days work. My only concern

was used for the edges. After finishing that process, we wiped down the

working around the builder was the excessive dust. We overcame this by

whole kitchen and applied two coats of Tikkurila Otex Akva Adhesion

taping off the area and installing a dust extraction unit in the kitchen

Primer tinted to F&B Cornforth White to the main kitchen.

to minimise this problem.

The application method used to paint the kitchen was to seal the MDF with two coats of Zinsser Shellac Based Primer Sealer to hold back seepage of the high-density MDF fibre.

The kitchen island went through the same process but with a two-tone colour contrast in F&B Railings followed by two topcoats of Helmi 30 Satin Finish furniture paint.

The kitchen carcass frames were hand-painted using a Handover synthetic brush.

We completed the job to schedule and budget, and the customer was very happy. They realised the value of using a professional and the amount of preparation required to achieve an excellent finish.

Rowhan’s Decorating are Members of the PDA based in North Central London. You can get in touch with them on 020 3565 0510 or visit their website at www.rowhansdecorating.co.uk

38

CASE STUDY

T

here is certainly a wow factor with the Pacific Street Food theme refurbishment of the BAHA restaurant in Bowness-on-Windermere. AJM Decorating Ltd was contracted to complete the ceiling mural in the restaurant before the fit-out and grand opening. AJM told The Decorator the details of the work involved...

Specific paper for Pacific diner and tricky application! It took the four decorators hanging each

We only had one week to complete the ceiling mural, before fit-out of

piece one at a time.

the restaurant was required for re-opening. The application of the mural

For such a huge ceiling it wasn’t an easy task, and we hadn’t undertaken

needed four decorators due to the technicality involved in applying such

anything quite so complicated before, but we managed to use our

a complex mural to the ceiling, precision was key.

expertise to complete the works in the allocated time.

The mural was provided by the interior designers Design Equals

We had expected the mural to come in one long length, the length of the ceiling, so we had to draw on expert knowledge about how to apply it once we realised it came in individual small lengths.

Each length was only 1.8m, so it required overlapping and splicing both horizontally and vertically, meaning this was a very labour intensive

(

@designequals) who sourced and specified the mural for BAHA. We completed the work in time and the owner of BAHA, Stephen

Hargreaves, was delighted and he was able to re-open on the planned date!

AJM Painting & Decorating are Members of the PDA based in Cumbria. You can visit their website at www.ajmdecorating.co.uk, call them on 01539 730918, or find them on Instagram @ajmdecorating

40

CASE STUDY

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CASE STUDY

Going IN BRIEF. underground

First, the floor was diamond grinded to create an even, clean surface, the main floor was then painted grey with one coat of CF22 thinned to 20 percent. This was followed by two full coats.

A Norwich underground car park has been given a bright and

The individual bays were to be marked with a contrasting colour

colourful, hard-wearing character thanks to Bradite’s high

rather than white lines, so each was masked with timber while the

performance CF22 Floor Finish. Local company Cladspray Solutions

rest of the floor was painted and then treated in the appropriate

tackled the job at Trinity Street where a basement car park beneath

colours with CF22, again thinned to 20 percent, followed by two full

a new build apartment block needed marking out.

coats. Thermoplastic bay numbers and car charging logos were then

The client required 13 individual spaces plus two specifically marked

applied by blow torch.

for electric charging points. But the first task was to prepare the

Bradite CF22 is a chlorinated rubber based coating suited to both

rough concrete floor surface which had been used as a storage area

concrete and steel surfaces and is highly resistant to chemicals and

for plant and materials during the construction of the block above.

oils. It can be used equally indoors or outside.

www.bradite.com

IN BRIEF.

Setting the scene Brewers customer, Monkey See Scenery

we had certain artistic licence. Once the set

the pre-mixed glue would work! We also used

based in Elstree, Hertfordshire, work in the

approved by ITV’s Head of Sport, it was

Albany Vinyl Silk in red. It never dulled and

glamorous world of show business, building

handed over to us. It took three weeks to

looked amazing.”

sets for the TV and film industry. Monkey

build and four days to install the set.”

See Scenery joined forces with two other set construction

companies,

tasked

with

timber, thinned down for a stained, weathered

point, the set went in for a week’s rehearsal

building ITV’s Rugby World Cup sets last year.

feel. Printed paper was applied using Albany

to look at the feel and finish, and see if there

“The specification for the sets was Japan,”

42

“There were six of us on the build and it

“We used Albany Vinyl Matt on all the took eight of us to install the set. At this

Speciality Wallcovering Adhesive. The set was are any changes required. I’m proud to say

said Ian Vallintine at Monkey See Scenery,

used for four weeks with an untold number of everyone loved it.”

“The designer had specified the finishes, but

lights generating lots of heat, but I had faith

And it’s clear to see why!

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sandtextrade.co.uk

Bring the

SPRING / SUMMER 2020

brightness back

TRENDS

Crown Paints has named its three key colour trends for Spring/Summer 2020 and beyond. The company is passionate about colour and recognises the importance and potential impact of choosing the right shade for a project. Crown aims to encourage everyone – including designers, specifiers and decorators – to have the confidence to experiment with colour, which is why it invests in developing new colour trends each year.

Each set of colour trends is identified by Crown’s team of colour experts, which comprises consultants, specialists and designers who meet each year to draw on their extensive collective expertise to identify current and future trends across a range of sectors. The team then turns the main overarching themes into separate colour palettes to appeal as widely as possible.

The three tends each have a distinct identity, and the panel highlights both hero shades and complementary colours within each. This year, the panel has identified the trends for Spring/Summer as Direct, Rethink and Connect – all of which have been chosen with the aim of people connecting with the colours.

Direct has been inspired by artist Lee Krasner, with a focus on bright colours being used in an expressionistic way. The hero colour of the trend is Into the blue, a deep blue shade which is highly versatile. It works alongside the complementary colours within the palette, which plays with boundaries and spatial perception through the use of bold colour combinations and configurations.

The second trend for the season, Rethink, comprises an optimistic colour palette which links with technology and synthetics. It is a forward-thinking trend which has been

inspired

by

the

growing

emphasis placed by businesses on the use of innovative techniques to create new materials from waste products.

The key colour for the palette is the mint green shade Revival, which is brought to life with contrasting pink, yellow and grey tones.

Completing the season’s trends, Connect has been inspired by Japanese forest bathing and the joy of outdoors – as well as the link between nature and wellbeing – and therefore focuses on green hues. The trend sees shades such as Gentle Olive feature alongside subtle complementary colours which work well to create a soothing environment.

For more information and to find your nearest stockist visit www.crowntrade.co.uk You can also follow @CrownTradePaint on Twitter, CrownTradePaint on Facebook or Crown Paints on LinkedIn 44

we Ne ng ra

A simpler, faster way to a great finish Dulux Decorator Centre brings you the latest in spray equipment, designed to make spraying simple, from great trusted brands such as Graco, Tritech and Q-Tech.

Visit your local to store for help on choosing the sprayer for the right job, plus tips on spray techniques and details of spray courses available at the Dulux Academy.

New range now available in-store, or online 24/7 at: duluxdecoratorcentre.co.uk

Up to

5x faster than using a traditional roller

IN-STORE

ONLINE

MOBILE

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

tool TALK

! l l a t i n i W

of reviewed in this edition One of each of the items one lucky PDA Member!

Tooltalk are available to simply send an For your chance to win, ecorator.co.uk email to tooltalk@the-d ent winner, Well done to our most rec rative Painting.

Les Barber of LSB Deco Enjoy your new products!

Products independently tested and reviewed

by Award Winning Decorator, Wayne de Wet

Smart

75mm Single Box Cutter @smarttoolgroup

www.smart-toolgroup.com For those of us that do renovation and

Features & Benefits

construction work, Smart Tool Group have a

‘ Multitool accessory

I’ve found makes the job so much faster,

‘ Quick-release shank

75mm Single Box Cutter for plasterboard that

‘ Suitable for plasterboard only ‘ Blades on all four sides

more accurate, and if I am honest, more fun.

The metal box cutter has fine-toothed blades on all four of the oval shaped sides, which when held on your marked position effortlessly cut through the plasterboard. Suitable for the single box sockets, switches and fused spur’s etc.

The black finished steel smart tool uses quick-release shank so fits most main brands of multitool. That old saying 'Practice makes perfect' comes to mind here!

I would recommend having a few goes on some waste plasterboard before putting it into action.

Kana

Premier Lily Wallpaper Brush @ciret_ltd

www.ciret.co.uk

For Members that hang wallpaper, I want to bring the useful Kana Premier Lily Wallpaper Brush from Ciret to your attention. The 100% pure lily bristles are incredibly soft, yet firm enough to smooth out delicate wallpapers, without scratching or stabbing.

A traditional 230mm (9”) wooden handle has a lightly waxed feel to it and benefits from nicely curved edges. The continual finger slots on both sides give full grip control and is a comfortable size to use.

It comes in clamshell packaging, which is reusable and worth keeping so you can store the brush in when it’s not in use.

Features & Benefits ‘ 100% Pure Lily bristles

‘ 230mm (9”) wooden handle ‘ Finger slots both sides

‘ Lightly waxed feel to handle ‘ Reusable packaging

You can find Wayne on...

46

@ToolTalk1

@ToolTalk1

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Features & Benefits

‘ 3-in-1 step ladder, extension ladder, leaning ladder ‘ Fibreglass and aluminium construction only 9.0kg ‘ Heavy duty grip feet, two built-in mini trays ‘ Leans into external and internal corners ‘ Length closed 1.5m / Extended 2.6m ‘ Max load 150kg. One year warranty.

Little Giant

King Kombo Industrial @littlegiantladders

www.littlegiantladders.com

When it comes to ladders and steps, I always choose quality over price. It is very important to me to invest in access equipment that’s designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. After all, you put your life on the line every time you use them!

Little Giant make world-class ladders, and the new King Kombo range is impressive.

Being manufactured from a combination of fibreglass and aircraft aluminium, with a weight of only 9.0kg, keeps this industrial King Kombo lighter than a traditional aluminium ladder. The patent-pending high-visibility, non-conductive, fibreglass side rails are green to make them easy to see and therefore the safest!

The ‘3-in-1’ combination ladder – can be used as an extension ladder, step ladder, and a leaning ladder – is packed with innovative features...

A pivoting double-sided grip pad is edged with a slip-resistant material, which also protects the surfaces that you are leaning against. When it is folded away, it allows the ladder to lean against a flat wall. Press the two small round orange buttons, located on the sides, while pivoting until it locks in the horizontal position allows leaning on internal/external corners. It even perfectly grips wall studs, and street lamp poles etc.

The black honeycomb pattern top of the ladder helps reduce items falling off, it also adds to the slip resistance when the ladder is in extension mode as it combines with an aluminium rear rung to make a six inch platform to stand on. When in step ladder mode, there is a great configuration of tool cut-outs – three holes for screwdrivers, a large centre hole suitable for a hammer or small cordless drill/driver, and a slot for a large scraper or other tools, plus a handy fold out mini tray. (Pictured top) A great safety feature of the King Kombo is a patent-pending orange safety bar housed in the bottom rung. When this is stepped on, it gives an audible and tactile signal to let the user know you are on the last step.

The heavy-duty feet have aggressive treads, reducing slip, and rugged enough for demanding construction sites, yet equally suitable in domestic homes.

The front of the ladder has bracket supported wide flared legs, this helps reduce side tip hazards and makes the ladder very sturdy and ridged. The three inch wide aluminium grooved steps provide stability and comfort, and reduce foot fatigue when in the step ladder mode.

The slim and straight back design means it can fit between studs, tight spaces and is perfect for loft access. The ladder is also easy to change into the different configurations with two palm buttons on the sides of the ladder to release the safety locks. As you open out, when it reaches the Step Ladder mode, it will lock in. To cnange to extension mode, press the palm buttons to release and move to the upright position, and again it locks into place.

The five step / two section King Kombo Industrial combination ladder has an impressive max weight rating of 150kg. When you feel safe, you work better and are more productive – that is why it pays to buy quality.

47

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

With spring back in sight, people are starting to think about spending more time in their outdoor spaces, so now’s the time they’ll start considering refreshing exterior wood items such as doors, windows, conservatories and garden architecture.

Traditionally, translucent woodstains have been the go-to for giving exterior wood a new lease of life, however industry sales data from the British Coatings Federation (BCF) has shown that the use of opaque woodstains outdoors is on the up. Colour has become a key trend in the woodcare market, with internal colour trends making their way outside and contributing to the increased demand for opaque colours in order to transform an outdoor space.

With this in mind, Sean Thompson, Technical Consultant at Sadolin explains what makes opaque woodstains such a popular choice for exterior wood, and how to achieve the best results.

Adding colour to exterior woodwork Choosing opaque woodstain brings a number of practical benefits, as well as adding a touch of colour, to ensure the timber will be protected from the elements for years to come. Some products such as Sadolin Beautiflex Solvent Opaque Woodstain offer up to seven years’ protection with a flexible finish which resists cracking, peeling and flaking, thanks to its

surface as well as being self priming and undercoating,

natural erosion through weathering – making it ideally

preparation is required but is minimal in comparison to

suited to decking areas.

other woodstains.

When working with new wood we recommend making

Opaque woodstains like Sadolin Superdec, create a

sure the surface is thoroughly cleaned and any loose

solid colour finish which is weather resistant to UV light and water – meaning long-lasting colour retention.

They’re

particles removed to create the

also typically suitable for most external timber items including doors and

best possible base for coating.

windows, meaning that customers’ outdoor spaces look brighter for longer.

However, previously painted

Another key benefit of using opaque woodstains for exterior wood is that while it’s of course suitable for new wood products, it also offers an ideal

surfaces generally only require a clean to remove excess debris,

solution for surfaces which have previously been stained or painted, as its

though in some cases a light sand

opacity allows for a complete change of colour. The excellent coverage also

may also be necessary to create a

means it’s a great option for

suitable base to recoat.

surfaces which have become

Going bold

weathered and as a result,

Once the surface of the exterior

uneven in appearance.

wood has been sufficiently prepared, opaque woodstains can

Preparation is key Before adding an opaque

be applied to transform the item.

woodstain however, as with all

With exterior trends often following interior trends, we’re seeing a lot of

exterior wood projects, it’s

grey shades being used outdoors, however as consumers lean more

important to ensure the surface

towards bold colours indoors, we’re expecting to see more of this making

has been correctly prepared to

its way into gardens.

ensure the best result. As opaque

And with manufacturers like Sadolin able to offer a wide choice of

woodstains like Sadolin Superdec

standard colours and tintable shades across its range of opaque

are naturally forgiving to the

woodstains – there’s something to suit all tastes and styles.

For more information about Sadolin and the range of products and services available please email info@sadolin.co.uk, call 0330 024 0298 or visit www.sadolin.co.uk

@Sadolin_UK

48

SadolinUK

@sadolin_sandtex

Clean air with the system. &RnquerLQJ dust together.

Healthy, precise and time-saving work as a decorator. No matter whether it is concrete, tile adhesive or gypsum, in old or new buildings, Festool offers an uncompromising connection between mobile dust extractors and tools. The result: simple and effective health protection in every situation thanks to a perfectly optimised system.

For more information visit www.festool.co.uk/dustfree

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

UP

tool The (adhesive) force is strong

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

www.ob1original.com OB1 Multi Surface Construction Sealant and Adhesive allows you to get the job done with just one product. It seals as well as it sticks, meaning you can rely on its performance. It can be applied to all metals, glass, mirror, polystyrene, fibreglass, plastics (excluding polypropylene and polyethylene) and wood – meaning whatever the job, OB1 is the answer. It can be used outside, in wet weather or underwater and it even works with saltwater. OB1 adhesive is UV stable, and will not weather. OB1 sealant is resistant to chemical and fungal attack and is food safe. It is uniquely flexible and does not shrink. It is also solvent and isocyanate free, producing very little VOC with an A+ emission

Crown get Fussy

rating. You can now see the diverse uses of OB1

www.crowndecoratingcentres.co.uk

in a video on the dedicated product website.

Crown Decorating Centres are now stocking the popular products from the Two Fussy Blokes range. This is the first time that CDCs have stocked the products, with the decision being made following requests from professional decorator customers and positive feedback from the sector. The products can be found on a promotional end in store in all 140+ CDC stores in the UK – Microfibre 4” rollers short – 3 & 10 pack, Microfibre 4” rollers medium – 3 & 10 pack, and Microfibre 9” Roller.

tesa launch two new spraying products www.tesa.co.uk

www.brewers.co.uk ®

tesa has announced two additional core lines from the tesa EasyCover range will be inclusied in a new ®

spraying assortment, which will launch in all 177 stores Brewers Decorating Centres nationwide, tesa ®

®

®

Professional 4365 Easy Cover Precision and tesa Professional 4405 Easy Cover Standard paper. For ®

®

covering up larger areas, tesa Professional 4365 Easy Cover Precision is an essential for minimising the risk of any accidental overspray. The combination of transparent, supple masking film and powerful ®

adhesive tape Precision Mask 4334 saves both time and effort. The cover is available in drop sizes ®

from 55cm to a 2.6m drop. tesa Easy Cover Standard Paper is the time saving 2-in-1 covering solution that can cover large areas and precisely mask off. Ideal for spraying, this combination makes previous pain points of masking and protecting windowsills, door frames and stairs simple. The cover is available in two drop sizes; 18cm and 30cm.

50

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

C’est chic pinceau www.frenchicpaint.co.uk Chalk paint brand Frenchic have launched a brand new set of Detailing Brushes. The four smaller brushes allow the decorative painter to reach the parts that other brushes just can’t, and are ideal for use on ornate carving and finer details painting furniture. Handcrafted in Italy, the brushes are made of quality, soft, synthetic fibres producing a smooth and even finish. The set contains a larger flat brush, a smaller flat brush, an angled brush and a fine point brush. These new Detailing Brushes sit alongside Frenchic’s comprehensive range of brushes to suit all your needs, including Oval, Flat, Wax, Blending and Stencil brushes.

Science not Solvents www.univarsc.com/collections/eco-solutions You know the drill when it comes to stripping paint or cleaning surfaces before painting – mask, gloves, glasses and you still get light-headed from the fumes. Well not anymore. Trade Strip products use 'science not solvents' to remove paint and clean surfaces. Their range of water-based cleaners and paint removers prepare surfaces without using solvents, their X-Tex remover will even remove Artex from walls. This makes it safer for you, the environment and your customers.

The Trade Strip range is made in the UK and can be used on all surfaces including metal and wood for effective cleaning and paint removal.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

off the sh elf New and improved fillers

www.brewers.co.uk

A new and improved range of fillers has just launched at Brewers Decorator Centres. Building on the success of their own-branded fillers, Brewers have introduced four new products to coincide with improvements to their existing line. Waterproof Masonry Filler offers excellent adhesion indoors and out, and can be applied to damp substrates. It can repair reinforced concrete and fill up to 15mm in a single application. Quick Drying Exterior Filler dries in just three hours, it adheres perfectly to concrete, cellular concrete, cement, concrete block, brick, plaster, mortars and old painted substrates – and does not shrink or crack. Quick Drying Filler is theideal solution for interior or exterior small surface repairs, it comes ready-mixed in a handy tube, is water and humidity resistant, and ready to sand and paint in just 15 minutes. Flexible Crack Repair Filler, a ready-mixed flexible filler, is waterproof, over-paintable and suitable on a range of surfaces, from concrete to ceramic tile. This highly flexible formulation has fibreglass reinforcement to prevent cracks from reappearing. Improved lines include Brewers Interior Filler which is suitable for holes and cracks of all sizes, Brewers Fine Surface Filler which offers a very fine finish with no need to prime, and Brewers easy to sand and over-paintable, Ready Mixed Filler.

Stain it black www.ronseal.com/trade Ronseal Trade has added Ebony to its best-selling 10 Year Woodstain range, adding to the choice of existing satin finishes of Dark Oak, Deep Mahogany, Natural Oak, Teak and Walnut. The water-based formula is independently proven to protect from cracking, peeling, blistering and discolouration without the need for a base coat or primer. It also delivers a four-hour recoat time for both hardwood and softwood surfaces. Certified by the BBA (96/3303), Ronseal Trade’s 10 Year Woodstain has a proven lifespan of at least a decade and a water vapour resistance of 0.08MNs/g. This allows it to dry

Carries more than your clubs www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk Volkswagen has unveiled the latest generation of the Caddy in Düsseldorf. Based on the same platform as the Golf, it offers the latest engines and connectivity features. Initially there will be a choice of one petrol or three diesel engines, all of which comply with the Euro 6d emissions standards that will come into effect in 2021. New assistance systems make the Caddy safer and easier to drive, six of the 19 driver assistance systems are completely new, and networked infotainment and digitalised control systems turn the Caddy into a smartphone on wheels. Need more space? The Caddy Maxi provides room for up to two Euro pallets!

Order books for the fifth generation of the light van open in October with first deliveries expected at the start of 2021.

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more readily after exposure to wet conditions and ensures that it is rainproof in one hour.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Defend against wear and tear with this new durable water based trim paint

Enduring every day www.johnstonestrade.com/aqua-guard For professional painters and decorators, providing customers with a long-lasting, premium finish is crucial. To help achieve this, Johnstone’s Trade has developed Aqua Guard, a new water based satin paint for interior wood and metal with enhanced durability. David Baines, technical specification manager at PPG gives us the lowdown on their latest innovation...

We understand that professional painters and decorators are passionate

These oils are particularly harmful for water based formulations as they

about providing a quality finish that will stand the test of time. However,

react with the paint and break down the protective layers, leaving surfaces

when it comes to interior trim surfaces, paintwork is at risk of daily wear

exposed to tarnishing.

and tear from stains, scratches and hand contact which can leave behind

The innovative Surface Protection technology incorporated in to

marks and blemishes. While this is inevitable with the majority of paints on

Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard ensures the paint does not soften or

the market, meaning that redecoration needs to be carried out sooner than

become damaged when touched over time, therefore staying fresher for

many customers would like, harming the original decorator’s reputation.

Placing the needs of decorators at the forefront of our innovations, we set out to answer this long-standing industry issue. Carrying out extensive

longer. It also has long-lasting whiteness and, thanks to its water based formula, is easy to apply, quick to dry, has low odour and won’t clog brushes, making it easy to wash out.

research and development has led us to develop Aqua Guard, a new water

At Johnstone’s Trade, we like to keep an open conversation with our

based satin paint specifically designed to defend interior wood and metal

customers to ensure we’re developing coatings that deliver the high

surfaces against scratches, greasy finger marks, and general wear and tear,

performance that they expect from us.

providing decorators with a long-lasting, high quality finish.

“My first impression of Aqua Guard is that

Our hands naturally contain and release enzymes, often known as hand

it’s simply a fantastic paint. One of the

fats, which, when left behind on surfaces, can cause the paint to soften.

downsides to using other water based Johnstone’s Trade Aqua Guard with Surface Protection technology

Standard Interior Trim

paints is that you typically get a lot of visible brush marks, but this isn’t the case

Ultimate defence; Surface Protection technology works as a guard

Wear and tear as a result of grease, dirt and scratches

with Aqua Guard. It applies and leaves a finish just like an oil based product, but with all the benefits of water based.”

– Nick Torranno Harling, NTH Decorating

Gre

Trim

ase

Primer Time

and

dirt

Grease and dirt Trim with Surface Protection technology Primer

“My business is based on providing a quality, long-lasting finish, and Aqua Guard

Time

enables me to do just that. It’s the best trim paint I’ve ever used.” – Chris Green, Scratch resistance defends against wear and tear

Chris Green & Son Decorating

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PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

There are three powder-based fillers in the Axus Décor range that are suitable for interior walls and ceilings: Q3 Filler, Dec-Patch and EP-Fill. Their characteristics

Focus on Fillers

vary, so it’s important to understand which one to pick accordingly...

www.axusdecor.com Containing a very high amount of resin, Q3 Filler is by far the toughest in the range. The resin ensures a permanent bond to

EP-Fill, a versatile, innovative filler that’s suitable for damage repair,

almost any substrate (even glazed tiles) and prevents cracks

smoothing over rough surfaces that have been previously painted,

from reappearing, no matter how large or deep. Though it can

smoothing over textured wallpaper, or taping and jointing plasterboard. It’s

be used for deep fills, it’s fine-grain appearance also makes it

a softer-setting product, but this does make it incredibly easy to sand by

suitable for surface smoothing, and once dry it is ready to paint

hand. For repair work, there is no limitation on how deep you can fill, but

without worry of showing through. With minimal shrinkage and

of the three fillers this one will shrink more as it sets, so you may consider

no thickness limitation, any damage can be repaired and

overfilling. If you’re using it to level or smooth a surface, its creamy

smoothed in a single application. It also dries quickly,

consistency holds well onto almost any surface, and is a joy to apply by

so you can fill in the morning and then sand/paint in the afternoon. Being such a tough product, it’s

broad knife or trowel. It dries to a fine, white finish that won’t flash or grin through two coats of emulsion.

slightly harder to sand than the others in the range, but a power sander will make light work of it.

Dec-Patch has less resin content than Q3 Filler, it is not really a solution for more difficult repairs. However, it’s a great, everyday filler that will perform well with most common repair tasks, including filling cracks, chases and holes up to 2cm deep.

The advanced formula contains marble dust, which leads to a smooth,

Axus fillers at a glance...

durable finish once set, that you can paint directly over. After two coats of a good quality emulsion, you won’t see the filler flash or grin through. The product has minimal shrinkage (eliminating the need for multiple applications), but if you do overfill you will find that it’s easy to sand back by hand, especially if you’re using ceramic abrasive blocks or pads.

Over 200 other products complete the Axus range, search #designedbydecorators For your nearest stockist email info@axusdecor.com call 020 8204 1422 or @axusdecor on Social Media

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C

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DE LT E

M O

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IN NO VA TI

Deltec Unitack® Paper

THE MOST RELIABLE PAPER TO COVER WITH Cover 4 times faster!

Self-adhesive masking paper, sticky all over one side for universal masking applications -

Every painter and decorator knows, time is money.

Deltec Tape has launched a solution for perfect masking in less time: Deltec Unitack® Paper. This unique paper is self-adhesive, sticky all over one side.

It covers 4 times faster than normal masking paper!

Thanks to the unique glue layer, Deltec Unitack® Paper is usable for surfaces like floors, stairs, windowsills, radiators and much more. This paper is reusable and can be easily adjusted after covering.

Save time, save money and the best finish ever!

Request your free sample!

Deltectape.com/sample

Quick and easy covering Perfect for spraying Reusable Usable on surfaces like floors, stairs, windowsills, radiators and much more - For indoor and outdoor use - Never any glue residue up to 2 months - Available sizes: 75mm, 150mm, 225mm, 300mm, 400mm and 600mm

DELTECTAPE.COM

SELECT YOUR WEAPON: ™

MAGE ™ CUTTER

cutter

Unique Tricho™ filament delivers maximum spreading rate

Ultra-soft filament tips eliminate brush marks

at

i

ng

Associate Partner

so

or

cia

Dec

tion

Painting

A

s

Ergonomic, FSC® certified beechwood handles

RUST RESISTANT

Stainless steel ferrules

#designedbydecorators

For more info, find us online: www.axusdecor.com