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Red Seal Painter & Decorator study materials
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Red Seal Painter & Decorator: Trade Calculations, Documentation, and Communication

Red Seal Painter & Decorator · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.

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Trade Calculations, Documentation, and Communication

Trade Calculations, Documentation, and Communication tests the business side of painting: accurate quantities, honest pricing, written instructions, and clear client approval. The exam expects you to convert a measured scope into a defensible estimate and a traceable job record.

Calculations

  • Areas: perimeter × height minus openings; ceilings: length × width; linear trim: run length by profile.
  • Coverage: litres = area × coats ÷ spreading rate. Add waste for texture, spray, and porous substrates.
  • Labour: production rate × quantity; price at the correct rate. Apply overhead and profit to the subtotal, then tax to the taxable total.

Documentation

  • An estimate states scope, exclusions, coats, products, sheens, colours, access, and assumptions.
  • A change order records added or deleted work, price, schedule effect, and signatures before work proceeds.
  • A request for information resolves ambiguity; daily logs record weather, manpower, delays, and instructions.

Communication

  • Confirm colour, sheen, and finish level in writing; retain approved samples or labels.
  • Record verbal instructions by email or site memo; avoid starting disputed extra work without written authorization.

Worked example

Labour: 120 m² at 0.15 h/m² = 18 h; at $38/h = $684. Materials = $420; equipment = $60. Subtotal = $1,164. Overhead and profit at 15% = $174.60; total before tax = $1,338.60. GST at 5% = $66.93; total = $1,405.53. The markup applies to the full subtotal, not just labour.

Traps that cost marks

Applying tax before overhead and profit; marking up labour only; leaving exclusions out of the estimate; relying on a verbal change; and failing to document colour, sheen, or approved sample.

Key points

  • Convert measured area to paint volume with coats and spreading rate.
  • Price labour, materials, and equipment, then apply overhead and profit.
  • Apply tax to the marked-up taxable total.
  • Use written change orders before extra work.
  • Record colour, sheen, and approved samples in writing.