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Our most commonly asked questions relating to this range. You can find a wider set of FAQs here or if you still have any questions about a specific product, feel free to contact us.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
For a decorator, brushes are the key tools of the trade and any seasoned pro will tell you that cleaning a paintbrush after use is critical to ensure it delivers a quality finish time after time. Here’s a general guide for cleaning brushes – and more than anything it revolves around what paint you’ve been using:
Scrape off excess paint from the paintbrush using the edge of the paint can or a paint scraper. As well as not wasting good paint, it’s important to minimise the amount that goes down drains when you wash the brush out.
For water-based paints, such as emulsion or acrylic, rinse the paintbrush under running water. Use lukewarm water if possible – you’ll find it’s better than cold.
Add a small amount of mild liquid soap – and do ensure it’s mild, as aggressive detergents risk damaging your brush – to the paint brush and lather it up. Work the soap into the bristles with your fingers.
Rinse the paintbrush thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
If there’s still paint in the brush, repeat the process until the paintbrush is clean.
Shake off excess water and reshape the bristles. Let the paintbrush air dry.
Scrape off excess paint as much as possible.
If you’ve been using oil-based paints, you’ll need to clean the paintbrush with paint thinner or mineral spirits. Follow these steps in a well-ventilated area to ensure you’re not breathing in fumes:
Pour a small amount of paint thinner or mineral spirits into a kettle or other container.
Dip the paintbrush into the solvent and swish it around. Using a wire brush will help to remove stubborn paint.
Wipe the paintbrush on a lint-free rag to remove the solvent and dissolved paint.
After using paint thinner, clean the paintbrush with soap and water as described in the water-based paint section.
Shake off excess water and reshape the bristles. Let the paintbrush air dry.
Tips:
Immediate Cleaning: It’s easier to clean a paintbrush if you do it immediately after use (you’ll only make this mistake once…)
Use a Brush Comb:
For both types of paints, consider using a brush comb to help remove paint from the bristles. It also straightens the bristles which helps with shape retention and ensures the finish next time is as good as you got this time.
Storage:
Store clean paintbrushes with their bristles in their original shape to maintain their form. Some brushes come with a shaped keeper which is designed to help with this: use it, it’s not just packaging for display in the shop.
Remember to check the specific instructions on the paint can for any recommended cleaning agents or processes, as some paints may require specific solvents for proper cleaning.
ProDec Advance Ice Fusion Money Back Guarantee
We’re so confident you’ll be satisfied with the performance of your Ice Fusion paintbrush or roller that we’ll give you your money back if you’re not.
If for any reason you’re not happy with your Ice Fusion paintbrush or roller you can claim a refund by returning the product together with the information below within 28 calendar days of purchase. Please note that all fields must be completed for your claim to be processed.
Simply enter either your postcode, nearest town or city in the stockist finder and choose the distance you’re prepared to travel.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com and we’ll help you find it.
Please note that you can only buy from one of our stockists; we don’t deal directly with end users, for example professional decorators, builders, other tradesmen or DIYers.
Statement of the obvious here, but one that some people can lose sight of in the name of cost cutting: choosing the right paintbrush for the type of paint you’re using is critical for achieving a smooth, professional quality finish. A decorator’s skill goes a long way as well of course, but everyone will get a better finish from the right brush than from one that’s less well suited. Chances are that given enough time you’ll use a range of different brushes in a range of situations, which will go a long way towards determining exactly what works for you but here’s a general beginner’s guide for UK decorators on selecting paintbrushes for different types of paints:
Water-Based Paints (Emulsion, Acrylic):
Paintbrush Type: Synthetic bristle brushes are suitable for water-based paints. They maintain their shape better, the filaments are very uniform for a good finish and they are easier to clean. Natural bristle brushes have a tendency to absorb water and swell, which compromises the finish they give.
Paintbrush Size: For general painting, use a medium-sized brush (eg. 2 to 2.5 inches). For cutting in or detail work, a smaller brush may be appropriate but this is very much personal choice and some prefer to cut in with 3 inch brushes.
Oil-Based Paints (Gloss, Satinwood, Eggshell):
Paintbrush Type: Natural bristle brushes, often made from hog hair, find their best use with for oil-based paints. They tend to hold plenty of paint and the individual bristle ends naturally split with use, which gives a fine touch and a smooth finish. That said, synthetic brush technology has come a long way in recent years and many decorators use good quality synthetics with oil, and there are plenty of brushes also available with mixed natural and synthetic bristles.
Paintbrush Size: Use larger brushes (eg. 2.5 to 3 inches) for larger areas and smaller brushes for detail work.
Water-Based and Oil-Based Primers:
Paintbrush Type: Synthetic bristle brushes work well for both water-based and oil-based primers.
Paintbrush Size: Choose a brush size based on the size of the area you are priming.
Specialty Paints (Varnish, Stain):
Paintbrush Type: For varnishes and woodstains, consider using a high quality synthetic brush or a natural bristle brush, depending on the type of finish you want.
Paintbrush Size: Select a brush size based on the size of the project and the level of detail required.
Masonry Paints:
Paintbrush Type: For exterior masonry paints, choose a brush with either pure synthetic bristles or mixed natural and synthetic bristles. Long bristle lengths work well for rough surfaces, as this ensures paint gets into the surface texture and prevents missed spots.
Paintbrush Size: Choose a size based on the size of the surface to be painted but generally at least 4” as coverage rates are lower for masonry paints and you need to load up a good amount of paint for maximum efficiency.
Additional Tips:
Cutting In: For cutting in around edges and corners, consider a brush with a slant cut head as it gives a better surface contact angle. Whether you use a small or large size is down to individual preference and skill level.
Quality Matters: Invest in high quality brushes for a better finish and durability. Cheaper brushes may shed bristles and leave streaks.
Paintbrush Shape: Flat brushes are versatile and good for large surfaces, while angled brushes are ideal for cutting in and detail work. Oval brushes are ideal for moulded trim surfaces such as architrave and skirting board.
Always refer to the paint manufacturer’s recommendations for paintbrush selection, as they may provide specific guidance based on the formulation of their products. Additionally, cleaning brushes properly after each use will extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
Paint rollers can hold an amazing amount of paint in their fabric. Use a non-abrasive tool to scrape off any excess paint back into the paint can and minimise the amount that goes down drains when you wash the roller out.
Fill a bucket with warm water and add a drop of mild soap or detergent. Swirl the roller in the soapy water, squeezing and releasing it to allow the water to penetrate the fibres.
Rinse the roller under running water until the water runs clear. You may need to repeat the soapy water and rinsing steps until all the paint is removed.
Shake off the excess water and gently squeeze out the excess moisture. Then hang the roller or set upright to air dry.
Use a non-abrasive tool to scrape off any excess paint back into the paint can. Under no circumstances should even small amounts of oil-based paints be emptied into drains.
Since you have to use paint thinner to remove oil paint from rollers, it’s important to be sure you’re cleaning your paintbrushes in a well-ventilated room and away from flames.
Pour a small amount of paint thinner or mineral spirits into a container big enough to partially submerge the roller.
Still attached to the frame, dunk the roller into the solvent and roll it around. Use a non-abrasive tool to help remove stubborn paint.
After using paint thinner, clean the roller with soap and water to then remove any remaining spirit.
Carefully shake off the excess water and gently squeeze out the excess moisture. Then hang the roller or set upright to air dry.
We engineered the Titan frame to be unbreakable, so if you do manage to achieve what we couldn’t, we’ll send you a replacement free of charge. All we ask is that you send us the original purchase receipt and the frame if you are claiming under the Lifetime Guarantee.
There are many fabrics available, and on most surfaces there’s usually a choice of fabric. Here’s a quick guide to the fabrics used on ProDec rollers you can also see the differences here.
Ice Fusion – lint free, densely woven fibres that have a spongey feel and give a superb finish. Use Ice Fusion on interiors only, as it’s not for rough surfaces, and don’t worry if it takes a few loads to get up full loading capacity: it takes a short while for paint to soak through to the core, but it’s worth it for the finish quality. There’s a short pile for trim paints and a medium pile for emulsion.
Microfibre – the softest fabric that has a very light touch in the paint film and gives an excellent finish. Because it’s soft it’s suitable for internal smooth walls only: never use microfibre on rough surfaces, as it will break down. It’s a very versatile fabric that can be used for gloss, satin and other trim paints with a short pile and emulsion and woodstains with a medium pile.
Woven acrylic – holds lots of paint in the fibres, giving long rolls and excellent coverage. It comes in short pile for emulsion and trim, medium pile for emulsion and long pile for emulsion and masonry, and gives a good finish with a low level of texture.
Polyamide – this fabric is engineered for durability. It’s an abrasive fibre so doesn’t give as good a finish quality, which is why ProDec uses polyamide in long and extra long piles for masonry only. Polyamide is superb at standing up to heavy duty use and getting into masonry textures.
Sheepskin – a classic roller fabric, sheepskin holds plenty of paint, applies it smoothly, has excellent durability and cleans well. Its main downside is high cost compared to synthetic fabrics, but a good sheepskin roller will last you a long time if looked after.
Foam – a low texture fabric that is ideal for trim paints, foam prevents bubbles forming in paint and ensures you get the right sheen level. ProDec foam is trade quality, high density foam that holds plenty of paint and gives smooth release.
Flock – electrostatically coated synthetic fibres mounted onto a foam core that give the smoothest of finishes with trim paints. Flock is especially ideal for high gloss finishes, as it leaves little to no texture in the film, allowing it to easily flow out and achieve the required sheen.
Simulated mohair – a synthetic version of the classic angora fabric used in decades gone by, this is a lint-free short pile fabric that gives a superb finish with trim paints.
Yes, we use a universal thread to ensure that all our poles are compatible with all our frames.
ProDec rollers are available via many of our stockists, and you can also find them on leading online retail sites.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
Ensure surfaces are smooth and clean
Masking tape adheres well to smooth surfaces such as plaster, wood, metal, glass and plastic. Make sure the surface is free of dust, dirt and grease for both optimum adhesion and a clean line.
Hot spots
If the adhesive surface is exposed to direct sunlight, tape with UV-resistant adhesive should be used to prevent baking on caused by excessive adhesion. Once baked on, it can be very difficult to remove masking tape, especially without damaging the surface underneath.
Wood
With unfinished or finished wood, tapes with low adhesion should be used.
General use:
Masking tape should ideally be removed from a surface before the paint has dried. Once the drying process begins, the paint can form a bridge between tape and surface, so whilst the tape may remove cleanly, the paint film may not break evenly and the line won’t be as sharp as you want.
New surfaces:
If you are using masking tape on a newly painted surface, a low-tack variant is advisable. A new surface is where the paint was applied less than 28 days previously, as it typically takes this length of time for the paint to fully cure or harden and achieve optimum adhesion. For this reason, low tack tape should ideally be removed within 24 hours to minimise the risk of the tape bonding more strongly with the surface and reduce the chances of leaving residue or, worse, pulling the previous paint off.
High Temperatures:
Avoid using any masking tape at all in high temperatures where the heat and humidity can affect the performance unless it’s specifically designed for that environment, such as UV-resistant tape.
Standard masking tape is already designed with the type of medium adhesion that should prevent damage to surfaces, but even this can be too strong for delicate surfaces. In that instance, you should consider a low-adhesion tape.
This can also be used on painted walls because the adhesive isn’t strong enough to damage the paint underneath. We recommend a maximum removal time of 24 hours after application of the tape on a painted wall.
ProDec masking tape is available via many of our stockists, and you can also find them on leading online retail sites.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
Less complicated than you might think: a filling knife and a scraper can look alike, both can have the same handle, both have the same blade shape and both are usually made from stainless steel, but filling knives have a thinner, more flexible blade which is more effective for pushing filler into holes, cracks and crevices. Scrapers have a thicker blade that is better for scraping material away and can give you some purchase when you have a tricky surface to prep.
Whilst you’ll settle on a favourite go-to size of both tools for general use, it’s handy to have different sizes available, as filling and scraping jobs come in all sizes from filling the smallest of pinholes to removing grout and much more. Both have variations: filling knives become filling blades or caulking blades at larger widths, and scrapers become heavy duty versions for tough surfaces. You’ll see from our range that ProDec has you covered for any situation.
Yes, absolutely. Foil guns come with a nozzle for foil sausages, but you simply put that aside when using traditional cartridges as they come with one of course. Simply load the cartridge into the barrel and screw the barrel collar on. It’s the same plunger mechanism for foils and cartridges.
You need your paint to be consistent throughout the tin, and a layer of liquid on the surface has to be stirred in, as does any stray colourant – both of these cause streaks but neither are a problem as long as they’re stirred back in. Hand mixing is the way to go for smaller sizes, but for 10 litre tubs and larger, it’s time consuming and heavy on the arm. A drill stirrer will do in moments what it takes a hand stirrer ages to do, and it will do it more effectively.
Let’s be honest, there are certain jobs that are less fun than others. Railings and pipes often feature near the top of most decorator’s lists, simply because they’re fiddly and brushes and rollers aren’t designed to paint them. A mitt lets you use your hand to paint, and you can wrap your hand around a pipe much better than a brush can. The ProDec mitt is made from sheepskin, so it gives a good finish and enables you to paint those awkward surfaces so much faster. You might laugh, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it – you may just be surprised.
ProDec tools are available via many of our stockists, and you can also find them on leading online retail sites.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
Choosing the right dust sheet for your job is important to ensure effective coverage and protection. Many are the tales that decorators can tell about when they got it wrong and things went south, so here are some guidelines to help you make the right decision:
Measure the area you need to cover. Consider both the length and width of the space where you’ll be using the dust sheet. Add a couple of extra feet on each side to account for any unexpected requirements or to allow for securing the edges.
Dust sheets are made from various materials and specs, and most decorators will use more than one type depending on the situation. Consider the type of work you’re doing and the level of protection required. Are you covering furniture for just one day, where a lightweight polythene sheet may suffice? Are you working on an expensive carpet, in which case consider a waterproof cotton sheet to protect against spills? Is it just to protect from dust, where a simple cotton sheet may do? Are you working on smooth floor such as wood or tile, where a sheet with an anti-slip backing would be useful?
If you anticipate using the dust sheet for multiple jobs, invest in a high-quality, durable option that can withstand repeated use without significant wear and tear. Cotton sheets without a plastic backing can also be machine washed.
ProDec cotton dust sheets can typically be reused, depending on the material and the level of wear and tear they experience during use. Polythene sheets are commonly single use, although if used for furniture they can be repurposed. Self-adhesive films are not meant to be reused. Areas to be aware of are:
Higher quality materials are more likely to withstand repeated use. Our cotton dust sheets are made from durable twilled fabric and our canvas and Windsor Bolton twill sheets in particular are hardwearing weaves for that can withstand fairly heavy duty use.
With cotton sheets, check for hemmed edges, double-stitched seams, and other features that contribute to overall durability.
Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of ProDec cotton dust sheets. Standard twill sheets are machine washable so are easily cleaned. Poly/plastic backed sheets are not machine washable but can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
Water-based paints are usually easier to clean and less likely to cause permanent stains compared to oil-based paints. However, it’s essential to clean any spills or splatters promptly to prevent staining and tread-through to the surface below if you’re not using a plastic-backed sheet – don’t learn this lesson the hard way…
Consider the nature of your painting projects. If you’re working on projects with minimal mess and little risk of damage to the dust sheet, they are more likely to be reusable. For projects with heavy splattering or potential damage, replacement may be necessary more frequently, so you may want to budget accordingly.
Before each use, inspect the dust sheet for any signs of damage, such as tears, holes, or weakened areas. If the material is compromised, it may be less effective in providing protection and paint splashes have a habit of finding holes to land in, so it should be replaced or repaired. On a safety note, holes can cause trip hazards and should be patched before reusing the sheet.
Self-adhesive films are a great way to protect surfaces from dirt and spills, especially on longer jobs, and whether it’s carpet, glass or hard floors, ProDec has a protector to suit. It’s important however to choose the right grade.
Carpet Protector is a thicker grade so it can cope with the give in the carpet pile without being punctured, and it has a stronger adhesive because sticking to carpet is more difficult than hard floors.
Hard Floor Protector is a thinner grade as it doesn’t have any movement to cope with. It also has a lower strength adhesive because it’s easier to stick to hard floors and, importantly, you don’t want to strip any varnish, clearcoat or other coating from the floor – this is why it’s critical NOT to use Carpet Protector on hard floors and it can be an expensive mistake to make.
Glass Protector is thinner still as it’s not being walked on and is translucent blue in colour so it’s obvious when it’s in place.
Our ProDec Advance Protector Dust Sheets have an anti-slip compound in the plastic backing which ensures they stay in place when put down – even on smooth floors. If you’re using ladders on smooth floors especially, you should give serious consideration to using an anti-slip dust sheet.
If your job involves protection from the elements it’s advisable to choose a tarpaulin that provides some overhang beyond the area you’re covering. This helps prevent water or debris from seeping or being blown underneath.
Look for tarps with reinforced edges and eyelets spaced at regular intervals. This feature is crucial for securing the tarp and preventing it from shifting or being blown away by the wind. Ensure there are enough attachment points for your specific needs.
If your job involves exposure to harsh weather conditions, choose a tarpaulin made from weather-resistant materials. UV resistance is also important if the tarp will be exposed to sunlight for extended periods.
ProDec products are sold by hundreds of retailers in thousands of stores, so you’ll never need to go too far to find them. Simply enter either your postcode, nearest town or city in the stockist finder and choose the distance you’re prepared to travel.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com and we’ll help you find it.
Please note that you can only buy from one of our stockists; we don’t deal directly with end users, for example professional decorators, builders, other tradesmen or DIYers.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
It’s common sense that a tradesman’s everyday toolkit needs to cover the range of situations that your projects most often involve. Think also about preventing clogs and premature wear of abrasives, which will help maintain efficiency and ensure you achieve the right finish, as well as keeping your material costs down.
Abrasive papers:
Keep a core range of ProDec papers with your most commonly used grits for wood and drywall. Aluminium oxide is the trade’s go-to paper abrasive and ProDec has a wide range of grades. ProFlex takes ali oxide up a notch with crack-free cloth backing, which ups your productivity.
Sanding Sponges:
Flexible sponge abrasives are a godsend when it comes to sanding contoured surfaces effectively. They mould to the profile, ensuring that it’s sanded more efficiently than even paper abrasives, which can crack and lead to missed spots.
Steel Wool:
Steel wool is ideal for cleaning metal surfaces, with different grades depending on how tricky the task is, and ProDec’s fine steel wool is also useful for smoothing wood surfaces between finish coats.
Wire Brushes:
When heavy duty cleaning is required such as removing rust from metal surfaces, a steel wire brush is a useful tool. Consider one with a rake for when the going gets particularly tough.
Abrasives for Drywall:
Keep Sanding Mesh handy for finishing drywall surfaces. The mesh is ideal at preventing clogging, making for fast, efficient sanding.
Dust Extraction Equipment:
Consider using vacuums or dust extractors to minimise dust during sanding, promoting a cleaner work environment.
Tips for Preventing Clogs and Premature Wear:
Clean Abrasives Regularly:
Clogging reduces sanding efficiency and you’d be surprised how much extra life can be had from abrasive papers and sanding blocks through periodically cleaning them – especially aluminium oxide which has self-sharpening grains. Use a brush or specialised abrasive cleaning tools to remove debris.
Use the Right Grit:
Choosing the appropriate grit for each task avoids excessive wear on finer grades that aren’t up to heavier tasks, and on the other hand avoids over-abrasion from coarser grades where a finer one should be used. Starting with a coarser grit for material removal and rough surfaces and progressing to finer grits for finishing can extend the life of your abrasives.
Optimise Sanding Techniques:
Move the abrasive in the direction of the wood grain, apply even pressure and avoid excessive force. Proper technique minimises heat buildup through friction and reduces wear and if you’ve selected the right grade, the abrasive will do the work without tiring you out.
Dust Extraction Systems:
If you’re able, investing in quality dust extraction equipment to reduce dust accumulation from abrasives is something you’re unlikely to regret: it prevents premature wear, maintains efficiency and removes dust particles from the air.
Rotate Abrasives:
Rotate and flip sandpaper or abrasive pads during use to distribute wear evenly across the surface. Trade quality abrasive materials are distributed extremely consistently across the entire paper or pad, and using every square inch will give you maximum value for money.
Safety is of utmost importance when using abrasives, mainly because generating dust is what abrasives do. Here are some essential precautions that users should follow when using abrasives on a job:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from dust and debris – our sister brand Blackrock offers a full range.
Use a dust mask or respirator to avoid inhaling airborne particles and ensure it has a minimum rating of FFP2. Paying a little more for a mask with a valve will make breathing a whole lot easier which you’ll appreciate all the more if you have a lot of prep to do.
Wear hearing protection when operating power sanders to reduce the risk of hearing damage. Over the course of a career it can all add up and ear defenders are a very inexpensive price to pay to protect your hearing.
Protective Clothing:
Wear long sleeves, long trousers and gloves to protect your skin from abrasives and potential splinters. With prep being a significant part of many jobs, tradespeople often sand for extended periods and it can be rough on bare skin. Good gloves have breathable liners and will also improve your grip, reducing hand fatigue.
Consider using knee pads if working on surfaces close to the ground for extended periods. Wear and tear on knees all adds up over the course of a career and you’ll be thankful in later years for the investment you made in quality knee pads.
Ventilation:
Ensure proper ventilation in the work area to minimise dust buildup. Use exhaust fans or open windows to improve air circulation.
Dust Control:
Use dust extraction systems or vacuums to control and minimise airborne dust. If you’re able, investing in quality kit to reduce dust accumulation from abrasives is something you’re unlikely to regret.
Secure The Surface:
Every year, tradespeople have accidents that could be avoided by simply securing a surface properly to prevent it from moving unexpectedly during sanding, for example if you’ve taken a door off its hinges.
Power Tool Safety:
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for operating power sanders and other abrasive tools, especially when using for the first time. If you only read them once it’s better than not at all, and technology is constantly changing.
Disconnecting power tools when changing abrasive components avoids accidental starts which can lead to accidents.
Work Area Cleanup:
Keep the work area clean and free from clutter to prevent tripping hazards. Slips, trips and falls are the most common cause of workplace injury according to the HSE.
Dispose of used abrasives and other waste materials appropriately. We have a full range of Maintenance and Cleaning products here.
Emergency Preparedness:
Have a first aid kit on-site and know the location of emergency exits, especially if you’re working above the ground floor. Be prepared for potential accidents or injuries – even a small cut, nick or abrasion may require treatment and time will come sooner or later over the course of a career when even the most careful need a plaster.
Avoid Contact with Skin:
Minimise skin contact with abrasive materials. With prep being a significant part of many jobs, tradespeople often sand for extended periods and it can be rough on bare skin. Good gloves have breathable liners and will also improve your grip, reducing hand fatigue.
Proper Disposal:
Dispose of used abrasives and other waste materials in accordance with local regulations. Some abrasives may contain hazardous materials that require special handling.
ProDec products are sold by hundreds of retailers in thousands of stores, so you’ll never need to go too far to find them. Simply enter either your postcode, nearest town or city in the stockist finder and choose the distance you’re prepared to travel.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com and we’ll help you find it.
Please note that you can only buy from one of our stockists; we don’t deal directly with end users, for example professional decorators, builders, other tradesmen or DIYers.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
Whatever the trade, maintaining a clean and organised work area will make for a more efficient and successful project. Here are some guidelines from decorating professionals that helped them achieve this.
Prepare the Area:
Whilst it may sound an obvious thing to do, clear the space of unnecessary items and furniture before starting the project. It will make for less things to have to work around, trip over and lose tools under – and everyone has done those things to at least some degree and regretted not taking a few minutes at the outset. Cover or move large pieces of furniture to protect them from paint splatter and dust.
Use Dust Sheets or Protective Coverings:
Place dust sheets on floors and furniture to catch paint drips, dust and debris. On hard floors in particular, ensure they can’t slip and slide about to prevent accidents. Consider self-adhesive films, which are waterproof, stay in place and won’t present a trip hazards, which cotton dust sheets can sometimes do.
Protect Floors and Surfaces:
In addition to dust sheets, carpet protectors and other protection, consider using masking tape to protect skirting boards, trim, and other surfaces. Even for the very best, sooner or later paint will go somewhere it shouldn’t and you’ll be grateful that there’s something in between it and the surface.
Organise Tools and Materials:
Different people have different ways of organising tools, but it does pay to be able to quickly lay your hands on a tool when you need it and small delays stack up over the course of a job and reduce your efficiency. Use tool trays, buckets or organisers to keep paintbrushes, rollers, and other items within reach. Some find a toolbelt to be useful to keep key tools handy. Organise your vehicle as well – there are many tradespeople who swear by the virtues of a fully racked out van where everything has a home.
Clean as You Go:
Regularly clean paint brushes, rollers and other tools during breaks or when switching colours. As well as keeping them in tiptop condition, this also prevents cross-contamination of colours.
Dispose of Waste Properly:
Have a designated area or receptacle for waste disposal, including used paint cans, tools and other disposable items. Follow local regulations for proper disposal of hazardous materials and separate out materials that can be recycled. The major paint merchants have takeback schemes for cans – even if it’s not their brand – and whilst you may think you can’t make a difference, a lot of people taking back a small amount adds up to a big number, so drop them off when you next call in.
Seal Off Adjacent Areas:
If possible, seal off adjacent rooms or areas to prevent dust and fumes from spreading – it will save you time cleaning up at the end and the customer will appreciate it. Plastic sheeting can be effective for creating barriers: ProDec’s Zipped Doorway Protector is ideal where there are separate rooms, or for sectioning off areas of a larger space ProDec Dust Wall creates a floor to ceiling barrier.
Keep a Tidy Workspace:
Regularly pick up and dispose of debris, used masking tape and other waste. A tidy workspace is not only more efficient but also safer.
Invest in Cleanup Supplies:
Have cleanup supplies readily available, including rags, cleaning solutions and paint thinner. This ensures that spills and accidents can be cleaned promptly.
Communication with Others:
Hands up if you’ve been working with someone and they’ve borrowed a tool without telling you? It’s always the tool you need at that moment, so if multiple people are involved in the project, establish clear communication about the organisation of tools, materials and the overall workflow. This minimises confusion and enhances teamwork.
Soft brooms are ideal for interior working, as they won’t mark surfaces like wood and laminate and you’re rarely moving large amounts of debris around. When working outside, choose a stiff broom, which can handle rougher surfaces, move heavy debris around and deal with wet conditions as well.
We have two broom handle sizes: 1200mm handles have a 23.5mm (15/16”) diameter which fits 9” deck scrubs and 12” broom heads. 1400mm handles have a 28.5mm (1 1/8”) diameter which fits 13”, 18” and 24” broom heads.
Our broom handles have a flat end to attach to the plastic socket on the broom head (except scavenger brooms) and a domed end which ensures comfortable working.
ProDec products are sold by hundreds of retailers in thousands of stores, so you’ll never need to go too far to find them. Simply enter either your postcode, nearest town or city in the stockist finder and choose the distance you’re prepared to travel.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com and we’ll help you find it.
Please note that you can only buy from one of our stockists; we don’t deal directly with end users, for example professional decorators, builders, other tradesmen or DIYers.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
Our three Workstands conform to EN131 requirements when it comes to having a maximum load capacity – including tools and anything else on them – of 150kg.
Our three main workstands come in the following sizes:
DWDK606 600mm x 600mm – Height 500mm Weight: 7kg
DWDK607 700mm x 300mm – Height 500mm Weight: 4kg
DWDK608 800mm x 300mm – Height 600mm Weight: 5kg
LFD150 4 step 1340mm/1500mm (open/closed) Weight: 7.5kg
LFD170 5 step 1620mm/1800mm (open/closed) Weight: 8.4kg
LFD180 6 step 1890mm/2100mm (open closed) Weight 9.5kg
The latest EN131 standard for ladders, to which our fibreglass step ladders conform, is EN131:2018.
Our telescopic ladders are certified to the EN131-6:2019 safety standard which is marked on the product and packaging.
By adhering to some basic maintenance and care practices, you can enhance the longevity, reliability and safety of access equipment and what may seem a little hassle will pay dividends in the longer term. Always refer to the specific guidelines provided by ProDec for the best maintenance practices on individual access equipment.
Regular Inspections:
Conduct routine inspections before each use and at regular intervals as recommended by the manufacturer and HSE. It doesn’t take long to give equipment the once-over, but you need to be able put your trust in it when you step off the ground.
Check for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction.
Repairs and maintenance should be carried out by a competent person with suitable replacement parts. Unapproved third-party spares are not recommended.
Storage:
Fully collapse any ladders or workstands and secure before storage or handling.
Store your ladder or workstand indoors in a dry environment away from contaminants. Do not rest other objects on a ladder and only store it where it is dry.
Do not subject your ladder or workstand to humid or damp environments as this can damage moving parts.
Store the correct way up. For example – the base of a telescopic ladder should always sit on the ground so as not to put pressure on higher rungs which have narrower tubes.
Cleaning:
Clean with a suitable proprietary household cleaner and a soft dry cloth. Dry all parts thoroughly before storing. Ensure all paint spatter and other contaminants are removed after every use as these can affect moving parts – this is particularly true for telescopic ladders which rely on smooth movement.
Do not submerge your ladder in water or any other liquid for any reason – it won’t end well.
Simply enter either your postcode, nearest town or city and choose into the stockist finder the distance you’re prepared to travel.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com and we’ll help you find it.
Please note that you can only buy from one of our stockists; we don’t deal directly with end users, for example professional decorators, builders, other tradesmen or DIYers.
ProDec offers the most comprehensive range of products for the decorating trade, while ProDec Advance represents innovative products such as the Ice Fusion paint brush and roller collection, Titan roller frame and scraper, plus the Super Cling dust sheets. ProDec Contractor offers up a small range of entry point trade essentials.
The ProDec Advance range features hardwearing polycotton fabric with stain-resistant coating.
Although the classic bib & brace still has a big fan club, we know that decorators are increasingly favouring trousers to work in. Whilst both men and women wear trousers, we know that women’s clothing is cut differently, which is why we have a Women’s Painter’s Trouser. It has all the same features and functionality as the men’s, but was designed by women to ensure a better fit.
The classic painter’s trousers have stood the test of time and thanks to clever storage designs in particular they’re much more functional than ever. But it’s not all about pockets: Wipe Mate is a piece of stain-resistant fabric that attaches to ProDec Advance trousers and gives you somewhere to wipe your hands that doesn’t mean getting your whites covered in paint, caulk or anything else and helping them look good for longer. Pouch Mate takes one of the best features of a bib & brace – the wide storage pouch – and adds it to trousers.
Both Wipe Mate and Pouch Mate attach via a simple button system and can be detached and washed separately.
This is one that’s down to personal choice.
Cotton drill is the original fabric for painters’ whites and it has a soft handle which feels comfortable against your skin. It’s fairly absorbent, so spots of paint won’t wipe off easily, so it gets dirtier more quickly.
Polycotton is a durable fabric that doesn’t feel as soft as cotton, but it’s less absorbent so it generally looks better for longer. Plus you can add a stain-resistant coating to it, like on ProDec Advance Trousers and Bib & Brace, which enhances this even more.
Please see our size guide here.
ProDec decorators’ workwear is available via many of our stockists, and you can also find them on leading online retail sites.
Owing to the number of products in the ProDec range, not all retailers will stock all our products so it’s worth contacting them before you visit. But if they don’t have what you want, all stockists are able to order any ProDec product and get it for you within a couple of days.
If you’re still struggling to find something, just give us a call, contact us through this form or email us at contactus@prodec.uk.com.
