Are you thinking about a potential career as a painter and decorator and want to learn a little more about what a ‘typical’ day might look like in the profession?
Given that painters and decorators can often be working in completely different environments on a day-to-day basis, it can be difficult to say exactly what a regular day could entail.
However, there are a number of core skills and common tasks that most painters and decorators can more than likely be expected to carry out throughout the day.
What does the average day look like?
Typically, the working day would begin with ensuring you have all the tools and materials stocked and ready to go for whatever jobs you have on.
Your day could begin with meeting a potential client who has just moved into a new home and who is planning to redecorate. Providing cost and time estimates for projects is a common part of the job, and so along with high attention to detail, good social skills can come in extremely handy in these situations.
Once you’ve wrapped things up, you might head over to put the finishing touches on a nearby commercial project, applying varnish to the last few pieces of furniture that have just been delivered for an office refit. Once done, you make sure everything is spotless and clean and head out for lunch.
Next, it’s over to a development of new-build homes that you’re set to continue working on. The downstairs walls are now ready for primer and undercoat, while the upstairs bedrooms need wallpapering. This will take up the rest of your afternoon, and once finished you’ll clean up the area you’ve been working in, along with your tools, before packing up your van and driving home.
What is the most rewarding part of being a painter and decorator?
Painting and decorating is definitely a career best suited to those who enjoy working with their hands. Many people enjoy the career as you’re able to see the full journey of starting a job through to completion, with the results proudly on display once you’ve finished.
It’s also common for painters and decorators to work closely with homeowners, often helping them bring whatever vision they had for their home to life, something which can be incredibly rewarding.
Why might the profession be challenging?
Being such a hands-on career, it'll come as little surprise that being a painter and decorator can at times be physically strenuous.
There are also times when painters and decorators may have to work outdoors and face some exposure to the elements.
Where could the career lead you?
With experience, a career in painting and decorating could open a range of exciting paths, some more unexpected than others.
You could become a team supervisor, move into contract management or set up your own business. The profession could also lead to more surprising avenues like interior or set design, or even heritage conservation.
If you’re interested in exploring a career in painting and decorating Able Skills offers a range of expert-led courses suited to all levels of experience. You can find more information about all of our courses here.