Rust, Fade, Corrosion, Oh My!

Your Guide to Planning and Executing Interior Painting in Light Industrial Spaces

Industrial painting for interiors involves the application of paint and coatings to various surfaces within industrial facilities. This process serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, including protection against corrosion, wear and tear, and enhancing the overall appearance of the interior spaces.

Knowing when it’s time to repaint the interior of your light industrial building involves several factors. Regular maintenance and periodic inspections can help you determine when repainting is necessary. Here are some signs that it might be time to repaint the interior of your light industrial building:

• • • • Chalking
      • Fading and Discoloration
      • Peeling and Cracking
      • Stains and Marks
      • Wear and Tear
      • Moisture and Mold
      • Changing Aesthetics

When it comes to executing an interior light-industrial project, here are some key considerations:

1. Surface Preparation:

Clean surfaces that are to be painted by removing dirt, dust, grease, and any loose or flaking paint.

Repair any damaged areas, cracks, or holes in the surfaces using suitable filler or patching materials.

Pro Tip: When using a contractor, make sure that the specifics of the prep are in the contract.

2. Choosing Paint and Coatings:

Select paints and coatings that are suitable for the specific environment and conditions of the light industrial building. Consider factors such as weather exposure, moisture levels, and the painted surface type

Choose high-quality paints that provide good coverage and durability.

Pro Tip: Use your PPG or Sherwin-Williams rep to create a list of appropriate materials and have this ready for your contractor to include these specific materials in their contract.

3. Safety Precautions:

Ensure proper ventilation during painting to disperse fumes and maintain air quality.
Provide workers with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and safety goggles.

Pro Tip: Ask your contractor for the name of the responsible safety officer for their crew, and ask to see their OSHA and lift safety certifications. Ask for toolbox safety meeting standard procedures in the contract.

4. Priming:

Apply a primer coat to the surfaces before painting to improve adhesion, coverage, and the overall quality of the finished paint job.

Pro Tip: Ask for the opportunity to sign off on the prep prior to the finish paint. You can ask for this procedure to be included in your contract.

5. Painting Techniques:

Depending on the size and design of the building, use appropriate painting techniques such as spraying, brushing, or rolling.
Use a consistent and even application to achieve a smooth finish.

Pro Tip: Your request for bid should specify that all prep and painting be according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Among other things, the manufacturer specifies the acceptable prep, compatible primer and paint systems, acceptable application temperature, dry times between coats, and application millage in their product data sheets.

6. Color and Finish:

Choose colors that align with the branding and aesthetic preferences of the business.

Consider the surrounding environment and how the building’s color will complement the overall landscape.

Pro Tip: Ask your contractor if they have a person on staff who could create a color scheme and provide recommendations for sheens. If they do not, your paint representative may have this service available.

7. Weather Considerations:

Check and monitor weather conditions before starting the painting project. Avoid painting during rain, extreme heat, or high humidity, as these conditions can affect the drying and curing process.

8. Equipment and Tools:

Equipment and tools will depend on the size of the building—appropriate equipment such as paint sprayers, rollers, brushes, and extension poles for hard-to-reach areas may be used.

Pro Tip: When entertaining bids, ask for referrals with projects of similar scope and size to that being put out of bid. This shows that your contractor knows how to stage and paint structures of similar size and, therefore, will have the correctly sized equipment.

9. Drying and Curing:

Allow sufficient drying and curing time between coats and after the final coat. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times.

10. Maintenance:

Regular maintenance is important to extend the life of the paint and coating system. Inspect the painted surfaces periodically for signs of wear, fading, or damage.

11. Environmental Considerations:

Be aware of any local regulations regarding the use of paints and coatings, especially concerning volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Choose paints with lower VOC content if required by regulations.

12. Contractor Selection:

When undertaking an industrial painting project, it’s important to select a reputable and experienced contractor with a track record of completing similar projects successfully. They should be well-versed in the latest techniques, materials, and safety protocols.

Industrial painting for interior spaces requires careful planning, skilled execution, and attention to detail to ensure the longevity, protection, and aesthetic enhancement of the surfaces being painted.

At CertaPro Painters® of the CSRA, highly skilled and experienced professionals handle each project with great care. We meet the flexible needs of your schedule while minimizing disruption to your business. We provide a smooth, efficient experience from start to finish while handling each project with finesse and expertise at an affordable price.

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