Painters apply paint, stain, varnish, and other finishes to buildings and other structures.
If you had to choose a color to paint a new classroom, what color would you select? Green? Blue? Gray? Orange? If you chose green, students might feel refreshed and relaxed, but perhaps too relaxed. The same goes for blue, maybe even more so. Gray is a nice neutral, but it might not excite the children the same as orange. According to color research, orange is a great color to promote learning. It literally combines the best things of red and yellow and creates a bright, energetic environment. You can choose to paint the room yourself, but if you want to avoid drips on the floor and smudges on the ceiling, then it's time to call the painter.
Before starting a job, painters read work orders or get instructions from their supervisors. If they are self-employed, painters talk to homeowners and other customers to find out what they want. Self-employed painters often prepare cost estimates for customers before they are hired for a job.
Painters select the right paint or finish for the job. They consider how well the finish will last on the surface to be covered, and how easy it is to work with. Painters start a job by preparing the surface. For a new surface, they simply wipe it clean and apply a primer or sealer. For surfaces with old coatings, painters first strip off the old paint. They may strip it with chemicals, use sandpaper or wire brushes, or even burn it with a blowtorch. In addition, painters wash surfaces to remove dirt and grease. They also fill nail holes and cracks, and sand rough areas. They do all this work so the wall will be smooth and clean before paint is applied.
Next, painters cover surfaces such as floors with drop cloths. They mask off trim and other areas to protect them from paint. They remove lighting fixtures from walls and ceilings. The next step is to apply the paint or other finish. Painters select the best paint applicator for each job. They consider what will speed up the process and also look best on the surface. For example, they may use a paint roller for interior walls, and a brush with a tapered edge for trim. They may use a paint sprayer for exterior walls. Some painters also mix paints, using their knowledge of paint composition. However, in large paint shops or hardware stores, this task is automated.
To work on tall buildings, painters set up scaffolding. This includes "swing stages" that are suspended from ropes. Painters also set up ladders so they can work above ground level.
Some painters specialize in certain techniques, such as rag rolling, sponging, or glazing. This is common mostly for interior home painters.
Self-employed painters keep business records. They may also hire and train other employees.