DECORATING
F
or professional painters and decorators, the first priority of any job is preparing surfaces ready for painting or wallpapering. This stage is the key to guaranteeing a professional, high quality finish - and as such, it is vital that merchants are able to offer the right, high quality tools for the job. When selecting which prep tools to stock, there are a number of factors to consider. According to Laura Hettenbach, Senior Trade Brands Campaign Manager from Purdy, it’s important that tools are durable and able to withstand regularly being used over extended periods of time if they are to achieve the high levels of satisfaction that merchants would like to achieve for their customers. “As much as 70% of a job can be spent just on the preparation alone, so prep tools need to be up to the task and able to deliver top results project after project,” she says. One of the main issues that decorators face with low quality prep tools is their tendency to rust. If products like metal putty knives, stripping knives or multi-tools are not dried thoroughly after use they can rust, and this can affect the tool’s performance and be a hindrance to the overall finish. To avoid this, recommend products that are made from stainless-steel. Although it is still recommended to dry the blade after use, stainless-steel models are less likely to rust. “To maximise sales opportunities, we suggest stocking a wide selection of stainless- steel prep tools, from putty knives through to wire brushes with stainless-steel bristles,” Hettenbach continues. “Having a range of quality, stainless-steel products from one manufacturer also makes it easier for the merchant to cross sell – and secure an ongoing revenue stream from customers that are loyal to a particular brand or impressed with the quality and durability of one product
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IT’S ALL IN THE PREP
Using the right and decorating preparation tools can make the difference between a good job and a great
job. BMJ talks to Purdy to find out about the latest trends in premium decorating preparation.
to the handle) will provide customers with a longer lasting tool. If it is too short, there is a risk that the product will not be able to handle heavy-duty applications or regular use and this can result in the blade coming loose or even breaking apart from the handle completely. Opting for products with a tang that runs the full length of the handle will ensure that customers can rely on their prep tools to offer the stability and strength needed for any job.
“Also merchants should talk to their customers about the importance of opting for products that have been ergonomically designed,” she adds. “As decorators use prep tools for long periods of time, they need to be comfortable and easy to handle. For example, rubberised grips offer additional padding and prevent slipping, tapered handles are designed to be easily held and some models can be attached to extension poles for easily scraping at height.”
and are looking to introduce further tools to their armoury.”
As well as the material used, she says it is it is also important to consider the build quality of the tool. Products that have a long tang (the part of the blade that connects
No swap: more speed As well as durability and strength, the usability of prep tools can also make a significant different to onsite efficiency and productivity. Hettenbach says that folding tools like the Purdy 10 in 1 Folding Multi Tool eliminate the need to swap tools between tasks, speeding up work. “It has also been ergonomically designed for comfort and features a folding mechanism and pocket clip to keep it secure and safe. What’s more, products like the Purdy Brush and Roller Cleaner will help to reduce the amount of time spent cleaning up at the end of the job as it makes cleaning paint out of brushes and rollers effortless - and also extends their life.” When advising professional decorators on the products they need to have in their toolkit, Hettenbach adds that Purdy recommends providing additional support and guidance by explaining how durable, strong and easy to use prep tools can make a positive difference to their productivity. “Not only will this help to increase customer satisfaction, but it could also open up an opportunity to cross sell or lead to repeat business.” BMJ
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net November 2021
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