How to Prepare Surfaces for Painting in Commercial Buildings

Painting an old, dilapidated commercial building is a great way to give it a makeover and return energy to the space. A fresh coat of paint can add character to a commercial building, protect its interior, and exterior surfaces.

Before you paint your interior and exterior surfaces, prepare them for painting. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of surface preparation. It is a time-consuming, but essential task. Proper surface preparation ensures paint adhesion. Even the highest quality paint won’t adhere properly if the surface is not prepared prior to paint application.

Here is the step-by-step process that successful painting companies in Kenwood follow to prepare surfaces before painting them.

Surface Inspection

The process starts with a formal inspection. The contractor inspects the surfaces for imperfections. They check around windows, gutters, downspouts, and other areas where water damage occurs. When inspecting surfaces, painting contractors also look for signs of pest damage.

Protect Items That Are Not to Be Painted

A vital step in the surface preparation process is protecting the items in the area that are not to be painted. To protect items such as furniture and fixtures from paint splatters, contractors either remove them or cover them with painter’s tape.

Establish Proper Airflow

Establishing proper airflow is important to ensure that paint dries evenly. Proper airflow also prevents paint fumes from building up. To improve ventilation, open the doors and windows in the rooms you want to paint.

Clean the Surfaces

Use a power washer to clean areas where paint is chipping or peeling. Use the right setting to get rid of stubborn grime. On sensitive areas that cannot withstand high water pressure, use a soapy cloth or soft-bristled brush. Some contractors use air blasting which involves shooting air from a pressurized tank through a nozzle to remove dirt and debris.

Dry the Surfaces

Paint does not stick to wet surfaces. Depending on the type of surfaces you paint, you may have to wait for up to two days for them to completely dry after power washing them. To speed up the drying process, switch on the fans in the room. Make sure your fans do not stir up dirt or dust.

Scrape Old Cracking or Peeling Paint

Do not leave paint chips behind or the new paint may not adhere properly. Use a scraper with a sharp blade to remove paint and debris. Make sure the tool has a striking cap.

Caulk and Repair Any Holes or Cracks

Caulk any cracks in seams of the surfaces or at joints. Dig out the old caulk before applying the new caulk. Use fillers to make sure your paint job looks professional.

Sand Surfaces

Sanding allows primer and paint to adhere to surfaces. It also levels surfaces. Use different grit sizes and clean the area with a cloth.

Mike Chavez Painting is a leading painting contractor in Kenwood. Our painters have years of experience managing residential and commercial painting projects. To learn more, call (707) 623-5850.