Commercial Case Study

Project
As part of a $1.2 million upgrade initiative in 2025, the Gary Fire Department set out to enhance both equipment and facilities. Station 4, one of the department’s active locations, received aesthetic improvements, including a new color scheme. To create a cohesive exterior and provide long-term protection from the elements, CertaPro Painters of Northwest Indiana was contracted to repaint the building’s corrugated metal exterior.

Process
Planning began with a site assessment in April 2025 to review the existing surfaces and determine logistical and safety needs. Sherwin-Williams Pro Industrial line was selected as the coating of choice due to its durability and high resistance to weather exposure, including wind-driven rain.

Coordination with facility representatives was essential to ensure that the project would be completed without interfering with fire department operations. Access to elevated areas was managed using aerial lifts and scaffolding, ensuring safety and efficiency during the application process.

The setup included the protection of surrounding substrates and the identification of sensitive areas such as irrigation systems and mechanical obstructions. Surface preparation involved high-pressure washing, patching of damaged corrugated metal panels, and spot priming.

Throughout the project, quality control walk-throughs were performed by the CertaPro Painters of NWI Project Manager and Job Site Supervisor. A final Pride Walk with the customer and the project team confirmed successful completion.

Challenges
Several logistical and environmental factors required careful planning:

• Elevated Access: Many surfaces required lifts and scaffolding due to height and extended reach needs.
• Emergency Operations: To avoid disruption of business operations, schedule management was essential.
• Weather Conditions: High heat and humidity require monitoring to ensure proper drying times and safe working conditions.

Result
The repainting of Station 4 was completed on schedule and within budget. The building’s exterior now presents a unified appearance. The Pro Industrial coating system offers long-term protection against environmental elements, preserving the facility’s durability and appearance for years to come. Positive feedback was received from both department staff and community members, marking this project a successful part of the city’s larger investment in public safety infrastructure.

Gary Fire Department – Exterior Project Photos – Before