Restoring a Landmark Multi-Family Residence with Strategy, Skill & Care
Posted on February 23, 2026
When the owners of a 22-unit multi-family residence in Lower Nob Hill purchased the property in 2004, they were searching for a classic San Francisco Edwardian building with history and architectural character. Close to Union Square and at the edge of the city’s historic “French District”, the neighborhood held sentimental value for both owners whose families had multi-generational ties to the area.
The Challenge: Repeated Paint Failure
The property had undergone two exterior paint jobs since 2004: both were unsuccessful. When the paint began peeling and stripping prematurely, it was clear that the issues ran deeper than surface-level wear.
With California’s mandatory façade inspection laws in place following the Berkeley balcony collapse, the property needed more than just a painter.* The property owners needed an experienced contractor who could collaborate with a city façade inspector and structural engineer, while addressing corrosion, fire escape safety, ornamentation stability and potential water intrusion.
After noticing the striking transformation of nearby The Andrews Hotel and surrounding buildings, the owners found the team responsible for the work and reached out to CertaPro Painters of San Francisco in 2024.
Diagnosing the Real Issues
Rather than simply repainting, CertaPro Painters of San Francisco conducted a thorough assessment and uncovered the real issues:
- Inadequate priming from previous projects
- Improperly sealed and caulked windows
- Water intrusion through masonry and structural elements
- Ivy growth damaging exterior surfaces
- Early signs of spalling concrete caused by corroding internal metal rebar
Extensive preparation was key. The team washed, scraped, ground and sanded failing areas to create a stable substrate. Masonry cracks were filled, rusted metal was treated, compromised concrete was repaired, and all surfaces were properly primed according to substrate type. Ivy was carefully removed, with additional surface preparation performed where needed.
High-performance coatings were selected for long-term protection:
- Elastomeric masonry systems for waterproofing and flexibility
- A self-cleaning finish on the primary façade to maintain brightness
- Premium trim coatings for durability and color retention
- Industrial-grade urethane for exterior metal and fire escapes
Every step was executed with compliance and longevity in mind.
George and his crew were great to work with. They were courteous, punctual, tidy, helpful and kind. They earned our trust by their work and actions rather than just their words. They did a beautiful job.
A Visible Transformation
Today, the building stands renewed — structurally sound, fully compliant and visually vibrant. What began as frustration over two failed paint jobs became a thoughtful restoration rooted in expertise, preparation and clear communication.
The project not only protected the property for years to come, but also enhanced the architectural fabric of the Lower Nob Hill neighborhood—preserving a piece of San Francisco’s history while contributing to its future.
After the building was painted, residents in the building and folks in the area have made comments how beautiful the building looks. It just glows. It enhances the entire neighborhood.
