A new coat of paint isn’t just a cosmetic update. It’s a new opportunity to craft an image that represents your commercial business appropriately. These days, it’s more difficult than ever for physical spaces to stand out from the competition and attract traffic that is pursuing more and more online solutions.
Whether your facility is new or has a few years under its belt, its look has a big impact on how visitors perceive it. However, there are right ways and wrong ways to paint it. Here are some best practices and tips for painting your commercial building.
1. Conduct a Thorough Inspection First
Why would you need an inspection before you paint? Don’t you just paint it? Before you pick up that paintbrush (or hire a professional painting company), consider giving your building’s exterior a thorough look first. Look for signs of damage like cracks, peeling paint and water stains, then address them before painting to ensure a smoother and more durable finish. The last thing you want is to pay for a new paint job and then have it looking unsightly soon after. Also, make sure you check any areas that may require special preparation, such as metal surfaces or concrete walls.
2. Choose the Right Paint
Not all paints are created equal. Selecting the right type will help you achieve those long-lasting and professional-looking finishes you desire. This is even more important for commercial buildings than residential homes, as businesses tend to require more protection against UV rays, moisture and pollution. Quality is key here, as a quality paint can withstand those elements better. Climate is also an important factor, as is the substrate you’re painting on. If you’re unsure about which paint to choose, consult with a commercial painter.
3. Prep Surfaces Properly
Surface preparation is a vital step in any successful painting project. This means cleaning the surface (to remove dust, dirt and mildew) and repairing any damaged areas you identified during your inspection. It’s possible you may also need to pressure wash, sand or use a chemical cleaner to properly prepare the surface and ensure adhesion of the paint. Taking the time to get the surface ready will pay off in a smoother finish and longer-lasting look later.
4. Invest in Quality Equipment
The right equipment can make a world of difference when painting a commercial building. From brushes and rollers to sprayers and other tools, quality equipment not only makes the job easier, but helps you achieve better results in less time. Don’t forget to protect yourself (or whoever is doing the painting) by using appropriate safety gear like goggles, gloves and masks. If you’re not painting yourself, you can ask the painter you hire about their equipment, or check it out yourself when they arrive to ensure you have peace of mind about the outcome.
5. Follow Proper Painting Techniques
This is one of the biggest benefits of hiring someone to paint your commercial building instead of doing it yourself. It requires experience to know what painting techniques you should follow, as this is crucial for a finish free from imperfections. It starts with applying a primer to create a smooth and uniform surface for the paint to adhere to. Next, it’s typically recommended to work in small sections, applying paint evenly with long, overlapping strokes. Always work from the top down to avoid drips and streaks. Finally, take your time to allow each coat to dry completely before you apply the next one.
6. Consider Environmental Factors
Temperature, humidity and weather conditions can impact the outcome of your paint job, so consider these factors as well. You ideally want to paint when the weather is mild and dry (with temperatures in between 50°F and 85°F). Windy days, for example, can cause the paint to dry unevenly, or even wash away. If temperatures are extreme in any way, consider postponing the job or using specialized paints designed to perform in challenging conditions.
7. Maintain It Afterwards
Even after your commercial building painting is done, regular maintenance must be performed to keep your facility looking its best. Inspect the exterior periodically for any signs of damage or wear—and touch up as needed. Regular cleaning can also prolong the life of the paint, as it prevents dirt and grime from building up and damaging the paint. By staying proactive with maintenance, you can ensure that your commercial building maintains its fresh appearance for years to come, and continues to leave a lasting first impression on visitors.
These are just a few tips for painting commercial businesses. To see how Fernic Building Solutions’ commercial painting services are unmatched, contact us today for a consultation and no-obligation quote. We’ve painted dozens of buildings for Dallas-Fort Worth businesses and would love to refresh the look of yours.