Painter & Decorator

Description

Painters and Decorators usually work on a range of both domestic and commercial projects including re-decorating small or large scale buildings / properties or structures such as schools, restaurants, bridges or building exteriors.

The main duties of a painter / decorator include:

• Measuring surface areas to work out what materials are required to complete the job. 
• Stripping off existing wallpaper or paint
• Preparing surfaces with primer or undercoat
• Applying layers of paint and / or hanging wallpaper
• Keeping the work area clean and tidy.

Some jobs may require specialist finishes such as graining or marbling.

Hours

The average hours for a Painter and Decorator are Monday to Friday, approx. 40 hours, however some weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines or comply with the client's timescale.

Typical Hourly Rate

The average hourly rate for a Painter and Decorator is around £10. 

The rate may increase when working nights or weekends.

Required Qualifications

All workers are required to hold a CSCS card to gain entry to a site. Most sites will require you to hold a 'skilled' CSCS card, which states you are a Painter and Decorator, although many sites will still accept a green site operative card.

One of the following qualifications will be sufficient to allow you on site:

• Level 1 Award / Certificate in Basic Construction Skills (Painting and Decorating)
• Level 1 Certificate in Construction Crafts – Painting and Decorating 
• Level 1 / 2 / 3 Diploma in Painting and Decorating 
• Time served with a minimum of 2 references.

Required Tools

As a self-employed Painter and Decorator you would be required to provide your own tools.

The main tools required are:

• Overalls (Whites)
• Paint brushes 
• Rollers
• Trays
• Dust sheets
• Mixing bucket / paint kettle 
• Paint guard.

FAQs

• Do I need a CSCS card?

  Yes. You can’t access building sites without one

• Do I need experience?

  Yes. You will need to know the basics of painting and have worked as a Painter and Decorator more than once in a building environment – painting and decorating your own house does not count. You will also require work references.

• Do I have to provide my own tools?

  Yes. As a self-employed Painter and Decorator you are required to provide all your own tools. Materials however will be provided by the hirer.