Shopping Center Exterior Repaint in Franklin, TN

Starting Conditions

Upon starting, the shopping center presented a mix of aesthetics and structural issues that needed immediate attention. The front of the building had been recently painted in a shade called Greek Villa, a soft, warm white. However, the rear displayed an outdated and less appealing red color. Additionally, we discovered rust on metal door frames and numerous cracks in the mortar joints of the concrete block structures. These imperfections not only detracted from the appearance but also posed risks for further damage, especially from moisture.

Scope of Work

Our first step was addressing the structural issues to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. We filled the mortar joint cracks with caulk to create a smooth, unified surface and to prevent future moisture intrusion. Rust was removed from bollards and metal surfaces, followed by an application of rust-inhibiting primer to protect these areas. To prepare for the new paint, we used concrete patch kits on the concrete blocks and then applied a full coat of masonry primer. This primer was essential for promoting adhesion and facilitating the color change from the stark red to the more sophisticated Greek Villa.

The transformation didn’t stop at the walls. The gutters and downspouts were painted in Black Magic, a deep, rich black that provided a striking contrast and matched the front’s new color scheme. The bollards received two fresh coats of safety yellow, enhancing visibility and safety for pedestrians and drivers.

Challenges Encountered

The diverse nature of the shopping center’s tenants brought about specific challenges. Each business had different operating hours, which necessitated careful planning to minimize disruption. Our team coordinated daily with the shopping center’s project manager and the tenants to schedule work during less busy times, avoid peak business hours, and manage the flow of delivery trucks and customer parking. This planning allowed us to proceed without significant interruptions to the daily operations of the businesses.

Special Equipment and Techniques

To tackle the project effectively, our team used 40-foot ladders to reach high areas safely. Power sanders smoothed out rough spots and prepared metal surfaces for priming. We also employed commercial-sized paint sprayers, which allowed for efficient and even application of paint over large areas. These tools and techniques enabled us to complete the project swiftly and with a high-quality finish.