A synopsis by Maria

In late May, we started the Painters Training. It is a 7 part course designed by Ecopainting to educate, inform and give hands-on training to their painters. In our first session, we learned basic fundamental information about budgets, shop maintenance, job-site efficiency and protecting customer property. We also had a discussion on sustainable painting policies, and how we could enforce that on the field (for more in-depth information and points, visit Joanne’s post about it here

It was a good session to start off on, because this information is something every employee should be aware of.

For our second session, we learned about how to properly paint over pen and marker stains so it would not bleed through. We also learned how to caulk properly and accordingly when dealing with interior or exterior, and what the reasons are for the different types of caulk for each scenario.

During the third session, we were taught how to fill simple holes and cracks in the wall. We were shown the different types of compounds and how to apply them, and we all got some hands-on training. To read more on this, visit Jordan’s post here

Our latest session, and by far the most interesting (to me anyway) was repairing drywall holes. Erna was there to demonstrate how to prep the hole, mix the compound, and apply tape.

Everything from small to large holes, completely through the drywall or just the paper on top of the gypsum, we learned how to properly prep, prime and apply. This was cool.

So, all in all, I think the painters training is a great idea. It promotes education and knowledge of the trade, and that will result in confidence and better work(wo)manship for all of us. It is also important that we all be on the same page with expectations of our work, because we will work better as a team when we are all in agreement and understanding of our methods and standards.

 

-MC