One of the best strategies for refreshing commercial structures is to improve their curb appeal with fresh coats of paint. Other exterior upgrades such as landscaping, new signage, or updated lighting are also effective, but not as much as commercial exterior painting. Curb appeal often translates into increased foot traffic and a more professional look for business.
If you’re interested in proceeding with exterior painting for your commercial building, but don’t know where to start, here are six steps listed below to prepare for your exterior painting project.
Prepare Your Commercial Building for Your Exterior Painting Project
Follow these steps to prepare for your project:
- Getting Professional Inspections and Estimates
- Checking for Restrictions
- Choosing the Color and Coating Scheme
- Taking Care of Repairs Before Cleaning
- Protecting Contiguous Surfaces
- Preparing and Priming the Surface
Let’s start with the first step, getting an estimate and inspection.
Step 1: Getting Professional Inspections and Estimates
Seasoned painting contractors know that prep work can make or break a project. In some cases, they will prefer to be in charge of preparations to the most reasonable extent. Getting proposals from contractors who are passionate about prep work is always a good sign; this is better than getting a low-cost quote that assumes you will complete all the preparations. All the same, you don’t want to work with painting contractors who downplay the importance of prep work.
Step 2: Checking for Restrictions
Compliance always comes first in commercial exterior painting. You may be restricted to choosing certain colors that match zoning regulations, and the same may apply to the coating formulas. In some cases, permits may be required if the project will temporarily block access to common access areas, or if scaffolding must be erected.
Step 3: Choosing the Color and Coating Scheme
If your business has a strong brand identity, or if it is a franchise, you have to use its colors as a starting point. You can ask your painting contractor to suggest colors that align with the image you have for your business. As for the coating formula, consider investing in high-quality paint to save you money in the long run, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups and repainting.
Step 4: Taking Care of Repairs Before Cleaning
Go through all the surfaces that will be restored and check for damages or imperfections that should be improved before the project starts. Think about doors, signs, and fixtures that will be painted along with the rest of the exterior; some may need to be repaired as part of the prep work.
Step 5: Protecting Contiguous Surfaces
Although the contractor will handle the taping and covering of windows, doors, and fixtures, you should identify all the surfaces that may get splashed during the projects. Show the painters where cloths or tarps on sidewalks, landscaping, and neighboring structures.
Step 6: Preparing and Priming the Surface
Point out exterior damage such as cracks and imperfections that may get in the way of a smooth finish. Ask the contractor if exterior cleaning is included or if you need to do it before priming, which should never be skipped with exterior restoration.
Final Thoughts: Working With a Painting Contractor
From project estimates to choosing a color and coating, a quality painting contractor will discuss your options and walk you through the entire process. Preparing for your project and communicating with your contractor will ensure a long-lasting paint job and a beautiful, freshly coated building.
U&S Companies is a commercial painting contractor in Michigan, providing interior and exterior painting services for retail spaces, shopping centers, warehouses, factories, office buildings, schools and universities, and more.
Contact us for your next exterior painting project!
