Business Details
27 Years
experience
Professional Painting & Decorating Services in the North West
Established in 1999, Different Strokes Painting & Decorating has grown from a one-person operation to a respected team of 18 skilled painters and decorators serving Cumbria, North Yorkshire, Lancashire, and the North West. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship, 95% dust-free preparation, and customer-centric approach has earned us a reputation for excellence in both domestic and commercial projects.With industry accreditations including CHAS, NEBOSH, and Painting and Decorating Association membership, we combine traditional techniques with modern technologies to deliver lasting results. Our team's expertise in exterior painting, wood repairs, and wallpaper hanging ensures every project meets exacting standards while minimising disruption to clients.
Services
Interior Painting
Exterior Painting
Wallpaper Hanging
Wood Repairs
Commercial Painting
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- 23 years of experience in painting and decorating
- NVQ qualified and Health & Safety trained staff
- 95% dust-free preparation techniques
- Free, no-obligation quotes with site surveys
- Trading Standards Approved business partner
Associations and certifications
- CHAS
- Repair Care
- Painting and Decorating Association
- CITB
- NEBOSH
- PASMA
- IPAF
- Emergency First Aid
- Trading Standards Approved
What people say
Professional manner
Highly recommend
Immaculate job
Excellent results
Minimal disruption
Services
Interior Painting
Transforming residential and commercial spaces with expert interior painting. We offer colour consultation, surface preparation, and flawless application using premium paints. Our team handles everything from single rooms to full property renovations, ensuring minimal disruption to occupants while delivering durable, aesthetically pleasing finishes that enhance property value.
Exterior Painting
Comprehensive exterior painting services for homes and businesses. Our process includes thorough surface preparation, crack repair, and application of weather-resistant coatings. We specialise in challenging access scenarios, collaborating with approved access providers to ensure safe, efficient completion of projects on listed buildings, commercial properties, and residential homes across the North West.
Wallpaper Hanging
Professional wallpaper installation for domestic and commercial clients. Our specialists handle all types, from standard patterns to bespoke murals and commercial-grade coverings. We offer expert advice on material selection for durability and aesthetics, ensuring precise alignment and seamless application in both traditional and contemporary settings across Cumbria and surrounding areas.
Wood Repairs
Specialist wood repair services using Repair Care resin systems. We restore rotten window frames, doors, and exterior woodwork, extending their lifespan while maintaining structural integrity. This service includes surface preparation, resin application, and protective coatings, preventing future decay and eliminating the need for costly replacements in 60% of cases.
Commercial Painting
Tailored painting solutions for commercial clients including schools, hotels, and industrial units. Our team works outside operational hours to minimise business disruption, providing durable finishes that withstand heavy use. Services include large-scale refurbishments, compliance with health and safety standards, and scheduled maintenance programmes for property portfolios across the North West region.
People
Robert Crawford
Managing Director
Founded Different Strokes Painting & Decorating in 1999, growing it from a solo operation to a 18-strong team. With hands-on industry experience and ongoing involvement in daily operations, he ensures service excellence across all projects.
Emma
Operations Manager
Joins in 2025 to oversee business operations, focusing on supplier relationships and cost efficiency. Ensures smooth coordination between administrative functions and field operations to maintain service standards.
Simon
Surveyor & Supervisor
Transitioned from decorator to surveyor role, combining practical experience with client management. Specialises in accurate quoting, project planning, and quality control across domestic and commercial contracts.
Questions
What areas do you cover for painting services?
We operate throughout Cumbria, North Yorkshire, Lancashire, and the wider North West region, serving both domestic and commercial clients.
Do you offer free quotes for decorating projects?
Yes, we provide free, no-obligation quotes with site surveys. Our surveyor will assess your requirements and provide a detailed cost breakdown.
Are your decorators professionally qualified?
All our painters hold NVQ qualifications and Health & Safety certifications. We maintain industry accreditations including CHAS, NEBOSH, and Painting and Decorating Association membership.
Can you handle large commercial painting projects?
Yes, we specialise in commercial refurbishments for schools, hotels, and industrial units. Our team works outside operational hours to minimise business disruption.
What wood repair systems do you use?
We're approved applicators of Repair Care resin systems, restoring rotten timber while maintaining structural integrity and extending maintenance cycles by up to 60%.
How do you ensure minimal disruption during projects?
We use 95% dust-free preparation techniques, work to agreed schedules, and maintain strict site tidiness throughout projects to ensure minimal impact on occupants.
