Ultimate Guide to Commercial Painting in Louisiana
The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Painting in Louisiana:
Many people ask what the difference is between a commercial painter and a residential painter. The answer is pretty simple, not much other than the ability to do larger scale projects.
While residential painting typically is a smaller scale job, commercial painting requires more logistics, detailed scheduling to make sure painting doesn't hold up any other part of the project, and many times, larger crews to make sure the project is done on time.
How to determine the cost of a commercial paint project?
Many factors go into figuring costs on a commercial project, but the size of the area to be painted, specific type of paint needed, complexity of the project and labor costs are all details that make up the overall cost of the project.
Types of paint to be used and complexity are the two areas of cost that vary most. Different types of paint carry different costs and complexity can cover issues like existing damage to the areas to be painted and difficulty of reaching this areas, will scaffolding be required to reach the area or are ladders sufficient.
So while we can give you a solid cost in this article, you should be able to get a ballpark figure with some investigation. However, if you're looking for an accurate quote for your commercial painting project, contacting a commercial painting contractor is the way to go, and many times quotes are free of charge.
That brings on the question;
What types of paints are best for commercial applications?
Again, this depends on the specific details of the project, but typically you'll need a paint that is very durable so that you get the most life out of it, and make sure it can handle high traffic areas of your business. You'll likely want to make sure the surface is washable without damaging or removing the paint.
Paints that are commonly used for commercial applications can be epoxy, acrylic, and latex paint. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages and disadvantages of different commercial paints:
Epoxy Paint
Chatacteristics:
Durability: Epoxy paint is extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear, chemicals, and moisture.
Adhesion: Epoxy has a strong adhesion to a lot of surfaces including concrete and metal which are both common materials to be painted in a commercial setting.
Finish: You'll get a hard, glossy finish.
Common applications: Industrial areas and high traffic area floors.
Pros for using epoxy paint:
High resistance to abrasions, chemicals, and stains.
Long lasting and durable, reducing the need for frequent repainting.
Excellent choice for high-traffic areas and industrial areas as well.
Gives a smooth, attractive end result finish.
Cons for using epoxy paint:
It requires more time for a paint crew to apply.
Surface preparation is extensive.
More expensive than other paint types.
Color options are more limited than other paints.
Acrylic Paint
Characteristics:
Versatility: Suitable for interior and exterior application.
Drying time: Fast drying which can speed up overall project duration.
Finish: Available in multiple finishes, from matte to high-gloss.
Flexibility: Flexible which will help prevent cracking and/or peeling.
Pros for Acrylic paint:
Quick drying time and faster project completion.
Resistant to fading and UV rays, which makes it an ideal choice for exterior paint projects.
Easy to clean and maintain.
Offers environmentally friendly options such as low VOC.
Cons for acrylic paint:
It's less durable than epoxy and not the best choice for high-traffic areas.
May require repainting faster than epoxy especially in heavily used areas.
Costs more than latex paints
Is more prone to brush marks and uneven finishes.
Latex Paint
Characteristics:
Easy of use: Easy to apply and can be cleaned up with water.
Drying time: Dries fairly fast
Finish: Available in multiple finishes from flat to high-gloss. (While available and the cheapest option, flat is not typically recommended because washing an area with a flat latex paint finish will damage the finish).
Flexibility: Works on a variety of surfaces, including walls and ceilings.
Pros for latex paint:
Ease to apply and clean up makes it ideal for quicker projects.
Low odor and environmentally friendly options (low VOC).
Cost effective and easy it's typically in stock and easy to get.
Flexible and resistant to cracking and peeling.
Cons for latex paint:
Less durable than epoxy and acrylic, especially in high-traffic and industrial applications.
Less resistant to chemicals and moisture.
Typically requires multiple coats for complete coverage.
Prone to staining and does not hold up well in harsh environments.
Preparation and Process
How long does a commercial painting project typically take?
Each project is different and time to completion will vary based on the size and complexity of the project, however, most projects are completed somewhere between a few days to a few weeks.
What kind of preparation is required before starting a commercial painting project?
Preparation can include, patching holes or dents in areas to be painted sanding the areas smooth, installing protection for the surrounding areas that are not receiving paint, and priming surfaces to get a stronger bond to the surface and possibly reduce the number of coats of paint required.
Will business operations be disrupted during the painting process?
While most paint contractors will make every effort to minimize disruptions for your business, yes, some disruption is common due to partitioning off areas that are being painted, extra noise, and drying time of the paint you choose for the project.
Quality and Safety
All contractors are different, but ensure quality and safety with proper surface preparation, recommending the best paint to be used for your unique circumstances, and employing experienced and skilled painters to complete the project.
What are the safety concerns for a commercial paint project?
Safety measures include making sure the paint contractor employees are protected as well as you and your staff. This includes using the proper equipment, making sure employees are aware of safety regulations, and ensuring proper ventilation of the project area.
Are warranties or guarantees provided for commercial paint projects on Louisiana?
Yes. The state of Louisiana requires contractors to provide a guarantee for a project. You can read more here.
You can also read the State of Louisiana rules and regulations for contractors.
Environmental and Health Considerations
Environmental friendly options:
Eco-friendly or low-VOC paints (volatile organic compound) are readily available and are an option to reduce the environmental impact of a paint project as well as improve indoor air quality during the project.
Disposal of old or unused paints:
Any unused or old paints should be properly disposed of and comply with environmental regulations, including recycling and using a designated disposal facility for hazardous materials. There may be local disposal facilities depending on where you are in Louisiana, but a company that covers the entire state is HWH Environmental.
Specific Services
Generally on any painting project, commercial or residential, there are other services needed to make the project a success. Two of the most common are power washing and color matching.
Most commercial contractors should be able to help you with these services as well. However, there is a third which is a design consultation that is sometimes desired.
Design Services
Not all contractors offer design services. If your contractor does not offer design services, a quick Google search for a design consultant should give you some local options for your location in Louisiana.
You can also find Registered Interior Designers in Louisiana by starting your search with the Louisiana State Board of Examiners or Interior Designers.
Also, Benicht Painting, Concrete Coatings, and Remodeling is happy to help you with color and design choices.
