About PDCA

The Painting and Decorating Contractors of America came into legal existence in New York City on January 15, 1885, as the Master House Painters’ Association of the United States and Canada. The organization was established by a group of far-sighted contractors for the purpose of attacking industry abuses arising from "unwise competition", remedying a defective apprentice system, solving problems created by unsatisfactory materials, and assuring the public of the "skill", honorable reputation and probity" of master painters.

In 1890 the name was changed to Master House Painters and Decorators’ Association of the United States of America. In 1903 "and Canada" was again added, and a year later the name was further amplified to International Association of Master house painters and Decorators. At the 1904 convention in Toronto, a Canadian Association was organized. For the next 30 years the Canadian members were very active in the Association and two Canadians were elected to the presidency.

At the 1937 convention the organization changed its name for the last time and became known as the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America. This change was in response to a group of members who felt that the term "Master Painter" implied an organization of craftsmen rather than businessmen and did not describe the type and scope of the work they performed.

Throughout the long history of the organization, PDCA has never lost sight of its purpose and goals to:

1. Enhance the advancement of the coatings industry.
2. Provide a conduit of communication between those involved in the coating application industry.
3. Provide services to members that cannot be obtained in small groups or individually;
4. Be the voice of the Coatings application industry.
5. Promulgate an attitude of ethical responsibility in busines.

627-F Minuet Lane
Charlotte, NC 28217
Phone (704) 525-2835
Fax (704) 525-2765