Trade paint is primarily used by professional painters and decorators who demand a higher quality, more durable, and exacting standard of paint for their projects.
Understanding Trade Paint
Unlike standard DIY paints readily available to consumers, trade paint is specifically formulated for the rigorous demands of professional application and performance. As the reference states, trade paint is a higher-quality paint made for professional painters and decorators.
Why Professionals Prefer Trade Paint
Professionals choose trade paint because it offers significant benefits over retail or DIY paints. These benefits are crucial for them to deliver a high-quality finish that satisfies their customers.
Benefits of Trade Paint
Professionals require specific characteristics in paint for efficient work and lasting results. Trade paints provide:
- Superior Quality: Made with higher concentrations of pigments and binders.
- Enhanced Durability: Designed to withstand more wear and tear.
- Better Coverage: Often requires fewer coats, saving time and money.
- Smoother Application: Formulated for easier brushing and rolling, leading to a professional finish.
- Consistency: Reliable performance across batches.
- Exacting Standards: Meets the high expectations of professional tradespeople and their clients.
Professionals need these features because, as the reference highlights, they "require a better quality, durable and exacting standard of paint for their customers." Using trade paint helps them achieve these standards efficiently.
Trade vs. DIY Paint
While both types of paint are used for coating surfaces, their intended users and performance characteristics differ.
| Feature | Trade Paint | DIY Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Target User | Professional Painters/Decorators | Homeowners/DIYers |
| Quality | Higher concentration of solids | Varies, generally lower |
| Durability | More durable | Less durable |
| Coverage | Better (often 1-2 coats) | Varies (may need more coats) |
| Application | Optimized for professional tools | Easier for novice users |
| Cost | Often higher per litre | Generally lower per litre |
| Availability | Specialist suppliers, trade centres | Retail stores, DIY shops |
Note: This table illustrates general differences. Specific products within each category can vary.
Practical Applications
Professional painters and decorators use trade paint for a wide range of projects, including:
- Painting interior and exterior walls in residential homes.
- Commercial property renovations and new builds.
- Applying durable finishes in high-traffic areas like hallways and staircases.
- Achieving specific aesthetic effects with greater consistency.
In essence, trade paint is the tool of choice for professionals who need reliable, high-performance products to complete jobs efficiently and to a high standard.
