Trends in the Painter and Decorator Trade
Technology
Technology is advancing rapidly in all painting sectors including commercial, institutional, residential and industrial. Lasers with vacuum fume containment are being introduced for paint removal, limiting damage to substrates and replacing abrasive blasting. Carbon dioxide is being used more often in intumescent coatings, creating a thick, highly insulating layer of carbon which protects the substrate from fire. Robots with remote controls and other methods of automated surface preparation are changing the way tasks are performed. Digital technology provides up-to-date electronic documents, reporting and communication on many projects.
Health and Safety
Contractors, supervisors, architects, facility and home owners are more often requiring work be completed according to safety regulations. Health and safety awareness by all parties is becoming more dominant resulting in cleaner and safer job sites.
Tools and Equipment
Smart phones and tablets are used more commonly throughout the industry with greater efficiencies. Drones are being utilized to inspect difficult access areas and for equipment testing.
Products/Materials
There is an increased use of decorative multicolour spray coatings and new coating resins for fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP).
Environmental
Owners, contractors and manufacturers are increasingly more aware and knowledgeable on environmental aspects on job sites and cooperate to ensure compliance.
Industry Specifications
Industry specifications dealing with corrosion and protective coatings have evolved over the years to a point where contractors now require applicators with specialized coating certifications developed by leading international corrosion specialists. Recently, the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) has purchased the Master Painters Institute (v) and has merged with the Society of Protective Coatings (SSPC) to form the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP). New standards are being developed by these industry stakeholders to advance the quality of work and meet owner demands.