Painter and Decorator
Apply paint, varnish, wallpaper, and other finishes to interior and exterior surfaces of buildings.
About Painter and Decorator
Painters and decorators prepare surfaces and apply paint, stain, varnish, wallpaper, and other decorative finishes to interior and exterior surfaces of buildings and structures. They mix and match colors, apply coatings using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment, and install wall coverings.
Work Environment
Painters work indoors and outdoors on residential, commercial, and industrial projects. They work at heights on ladders, scaffolding, and swing stages. They are exposed to paint fumes, solvents, and dust from surface preparation.
Physical Demands
- Working at heights on ladders and scaffolding
- Repetitive arm and hand motions
- Exposure to paint fumes and solvents
- Lifting paint and equipment
- Bending and reaching for extended periods
Designated Provinces & Territories
Red Seal Exam Structure
The Painter and Decorator Red Seal exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering 5 major work activity areas.
Total Questions
Multiple choice
5–15%
Knowledge & Recall
60–70%
Procedural Application
20–30%
Critical Thinking
Skills for Success
The essential skills required to succeed in this trade, as defined by the Red Seal program.
Reading
Read technical manuals, code books, specifications, and safety documentation related to painting and decorating.
Document Use
Interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and technical documents used in painting and decorating.
Writing
Complete work orders, reports, inspection records, and other documentation for painting and decorating.
Oral Communication
Communicate with clients, colleagues, supervisors, and other trades to coordinate painting and decorating work.
Numeracy
Perform measurements, calculations, and estimates required for painting and decorating tasks.
Thinking
Apply problem-solving and critical thinking skills to diagnose issues and plan painting and decorating work.
Working with Others
Collaborate with team members, apprentices, and other trades on painting and decorating projects.
Digital Technology
Use digital tools, diagnostic software, and computer-based systems relevant to painting and decorating.
Continuous Learning
Stay current with evolving codes, technologies, and best practices in painting and decorating.
Career Advancement
Experienced painters can advance to estimating, supervision, or start their own businesses. Some specialize in industrial coatings, decorative finishes, or heritage restoration.
Specializations
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