Running a successful painting business isn't just about applying coats of paint; it's about refining your processes, investing in the right tools, and ensuring quality every step of the way.
Scott from Brushworks Painting Solutions in Cronulla has built his reputation on these principles over his 30-year career. From his humble beginnings in Yamba to running a flourishing painting business, Scott’s approach to working smarter, not harder, is something every painting professional can learn from.
Building a Reputation Through Quality Work
As Scott explains, “In a small town, reputation is everything… referrals are everything.” This lesson, instilled in him early on, has driven his business strategy from day one. Scott’s ability to grow his business organically, mainly through word-of-mouth referrals, shows the importance of consistently delivering top-notch results. Quality work breeds trust, and in an industry as competitive as painting, this is invaluable.
But reputation alone doesn’t streamline your workflow or enhance productivity. For that, you need the right tools.
Investing in the Right Tools for the Job
One of the most significant upgrades to Scott’s business came six and a half years ago when he invested in Mirka’s dust-free sanding systems. Before that, dust was an unavoidable part of the job, and cleanup was time-consuming. “I don’t have to have two of my guys for an hour and a half each day cleaning up all the dust from sanding,” Scott says, highlighting the drastic change the Mirka system brought to his work. Now, with dust extraction systems, cleanup takes only 10-15 minutes daily, freeing up time for more productive tasks.
Not only does the system reduce cleanup, but it also creates a healthier work environment. “We are much happier and healthier because we are no longer sucking up all this dust,” says Scott. This not only benefits his team but also the clients, who no longer have to deal with dust settling on their customer’s cabinetry and floors.
Tools That Increase Efficiency
Scott’s arsenal includes a variety of Mirka products tailored to different tasks. His go-to sander is the Mirka Deros, which he calls “the all-rounder.” This versatile tool can handle everything from walls and ceilings to doors and timber. Paired with other tools like the Leros for ceiling work, the Deos for fine details, and the Delta for tricky corners, Scott’s team can tackle any project with ease.
These tools, combined with Mirka's dust extraction systems, have dramatically cut down the time spent on each project. "The Mirka systems paid for themselves within the first six months," Scott notes. By reducing labor hours and increasing efficiency, Scott’s business not only delivers faster results but also maintains a higher level of profitability.
Better Finishes with Abrasive Technology
One of the key advantages of Scott’s Mirka system is the Abranet Ace abrasive. He praises its versatility: "Inside, I love the Abranet Ace, normally 120, 180, and then 240 to finish. Exterior I tend to use the Galaxy a bit more. They're really hard-wearing." These high-quality abrasives ensure smoother finishes and greater durability on every job, making the sanding process quicker and more efficient.
Scott explains how they approach new jobs with precision, typically starting with a 120-grit Abranet Ace on the first coat and moving to 240-grit for the final smoothing. This method not only guarantees a flawless finish but also boosts productivity by minimising the need for rework.
Health and Safety: A Priority for the Future
Reflecting on how the painting industry has evolved, Scott recalls the days of “highly toxic paints” and no dust extraction. "Health and safety was not a big concern for painters back then," he says. Today, the landscape has changed, and Scott is leading the charge with his dust-free systems, which are not only healthier for his team but also provide a cleaner environment for clients.
For Scott, the dust-free system is “the way of the future,” and any business not using it is “behind the eight ball.” By adopting these tools, Brushworks Painting Solutions has not only maximised efficiency but also set a higher standard for health and safety in the industry.
Takeaways for Your Painting Business
Scott’s journey shows that working smarter isn’t just about cutting corners—it's about investing in the right tools and systems to streamline your processes. Whether it's the versatile Mirka Deros, the durable Abranet Ace abrasives, or the efficiency of a dust-free extraction system, upgrading your equipment can make a significant difference in your painting business.
By focusing on quality, efficiency, and health, you too can build a successful painting business, just like Scott’s Brushworks Painting Solutions, where smart investments pay off in productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
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