Commercial Painting Essentials: Dos and Don’ts
Making an impression is important, especially in today’s business world. Right? And what better way to do that than with a fresh coat of paint? A fresh, well-applied coat of paint can make a huge difference in how customers perceive your business.
Some business owners think painting their commercial space is just as simple as painting their home, but that’s not the case! Commercial buildings have different challenges, and treating them the same can quickly make the job feel too big to handle. To avoid potential problems, it is very important to know some essentials before starting a commercial painting project. Let’s understand some essential tips—what you should do and what you should avoid—when planning a commercial painting project.
What Makes Commercial Painting Different?
Commercial painting is different from regular home painting in several ways. First, the spaces are usually much larger, like offices, stores, or warehouses, which makes the job more challenging. Second, the surfaces in commercial buildings generally require special paints that can handle heavy use, weather changes, or even chemicals. Finally, timing is important because businesses can’t afford to shut down for long. That’s why commercial painting needs to be fast, efficient, and durable so it doesn’t interrupt daily operations for too long.
The Dos of Commercial Painting: Key Tips for a Successful Project
Do Plan Ahead: Before starting a commercial painting project, make sure to plan everything carefully. Painting large areas takes more than just getting paint and brushes. Think about the size of the space, the type of surface you are painting, and the weather if it’s an outdoor job. Will the painting affect your business? And most importantly, make sure to schedule the work during off-hours if possible to avoid any downtime.
Do Choose the Right Paint: Not all paints are created equal. For commercial spaces, it’s important to choose high-quality paint that can handle a lot of use. For areas with heavy foot traffic, select the paint that resists scuffs and stains. For outdoor surfaces, use weather-resistant paint to protect against Virginia’s changing seasons. Also, you can consider eco-friendly or low-VOC paints to keep the air healthier for everyone.
Do Proper Surface Preparation: Preparation is key to a successful paint job. Make sure the surfaces you plan to paint are clean, dry, and free of cracks or holes. Sand the walls and remove the existing paint that is peeling or chipping. Proper preparation helps the new paint stick better and last longer.
Do Use Professional Equipment: Using the right tools can make a world of difference in your paint job. Professional-grade rollers, brushes, and sprayers can help you get a smoother finish and save time. It is the best decision to invest in high-quality equipment or hire professionals who have the right tools for the job.
Do Test Paint Colors First: Before you choose a color, always test it on a small area first. Colors can look different in various lighting and on large surfaces. What seems good on a paint chip might not look right on a whole wall. So, testing colors can help you avoid the expense of repainting.
The Don’ts of Commercial Painting: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Skip the Primer: One of the biggest mistakes people make is skipping the primer. But primer is the main hero, it prepares the surface and helps the paint stick better, providing a smoother finish. Especially for commercial spaces, using a primer is very important as it ensures that the paint will be more durable and longer lasting. Skipping this step can result in uneven coverage and peeling over time.
Don’t Use Cheap Paint: Using cheap paint might save you money at first, but it can cause problems later. Low-quality paint fades out quickly, needing regular touch-ups or even a full repaint. In the long run, spending more on high-quality paint is the best way to save time and money.
Don’t Ignore Safety Guidelines: Commercial painting involves working at heights, handling heavy equipment, and using potentially harmful chemicals. So, always make sure that safety guidelines are followed at all times. If you are hiring painters, ensure they have proper safety gear and certifications. If you are doing it yourself, take your time and understand safety practices properly to avoid accidents.
Don’t Paint During Business Hours: Painting during business hours can be a big mistake. It can disrupt your daily operations and create health risks for employees and customers, as paint fumes can cause headaches and nausea. So, always schedule painting when the building is empty or at least busy to avoid interruptions and health issues.
Conclusion
When it comes to commercial painting, following the right steps can make all the difference. From choosing the right paint to ensuring proper surface preparation, these dos and don’ts will help you achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
Make your commercial space shine with Parmer and Sons. With our experience and commitment to quality, we handle every aspect of the job efficiently so you can focus on running your business. Remember, a stunning commercial space starts with the right painting!
