Industrial painting projects are often large, complex, and performed without the luxury of a full shutdown to ease the way. If any of these factors describe your situation, it will reduce your risks and ultimately save money and time to select a painting contractor that has proven experience and references that are relevant to your circumstances.

1. At the start of every industrial painting project, fixtures that can’t be moved or areas not intended for painting are covered with drop cloths or plastic sheets for protection.
2. All surfaces that will be painted need cleaning, and nowhere is this more important than the high ceilings and beams of industrial buildings. As they are not routinely cleaned like floors or even walls, we can collect pounds of dust and debris from a good blow-down. In some instances, solvents or other cleaning agents might also be used.
3. We inspect for any damage such as cracks, holes, or flaking paint and repair and patch these areas, using fillers if needed for a uniform canvas, including sanding and smoothing of rough or uneven surfaces.
4. A coat of primer is then applied to promote adhesion, improve durability, and enhance the overall finish.

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Require paints and primers designed for industrial or commercial applications, as these products are formulated to withstand harsh industrial operating conditions. For primers, bonding primers promote strong paint adhesion, and a stain-blocking primer will prevent staining or discoloration from bleeding through. For paints, it depends on the surface material and use. They are typically based on alkyd, acrylic, vinyl, polyester, polyurethane, or epoxy resins. Polyurethane or epoxy coatings are commonly used on surfaces that need superior adhesion and durability. In addition, other features and attributes may be specified and enhanced, such as scratch-resistance, or rust inhibition.

As for brands, products from leading manufacturers like Sherwin-Williams, PPG, Carboline, and Benjamin Moore offer reliable performance, quality results, and the company’s support in the unlikely event of failure.

While unique circumstances or special requirements may vary, it is common to apply two or three coats for industrial applications.

Drying time between coats depends on a number of variables, including the specific paint formulation, environmental conditions, air circulation, and the thickness of the applied coat. Water-based paints (acrylic, latex, vinyl) are the fastest-drying, needing typically 1 to 2 hours before applying the next coat. Solvent-based paints (often called oil-based) usually require longer drying times of several hours.

It is important for the contractor to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and technical data sheets for precise drying time. This will ensure proper curing and adhesion of each coat for long-lasting performance and quality appearance.

Most industrial facility managers specify a neutral color like white or gray. White provides a clean and bright appearance and also reflects light, which enhances visibility for productivity, safety, and energy efficiency. Gray tones are chosen for their ability to conceal dirt and dust.

Colors may also be specified for functional needs and areas. Yellow is commonly used for floor markings, caution signs, and hazardous areas as it is highly visible and draws attention to potential dangers. Red is often used for fire safety equipment, emergency exits, and high-risk areas as it is a universal sign for stopping or warning. Finally, some companies specify their own company colors for branding and consistency across all locations.

In regard to finish, glossy finishes are often preferred in industrial facilities because they provide a smooth, durable surface that reflects light, resists staining, and allows for easy cleaning. Semi-gloss finishes offer a balance between shine and matte. Matte finishes are less common in industrial settings but may be used in areas where a non-reflective appearance is desired.

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In most situations, the contractor will move or cover anything that is not to be painted with plastic sheeting or drop cloth. In addition, the contractor will also use tape, cones, and signage to mark their work area. In some cases, like when a company is particularly sensitive about equipment or product or they would like to save money, the client will do it themselves. This should be discussed beforehand. In any event, a good contractor will double-check to make sure all coverings and maskings are adequate.

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Many variables will determine timelines and how long the project will take to complete. It could be anywhere from a couple days to several weeks, depending on the size and complexity. It’s important to have a thorough discussion of needs and circumstances and a detailed project scope to ensure that deadlines are met with no surprises or delays.

Many variables, including the size and complexity of the facility, will determine the cost. That’s why it’s vital to meet with qualified industrial painting contractors for an assessment of needs and discussion of project details in order to obtain an accurate cost estimate and to guide a well-informed vendor decision. For more information, see this article on the four major cost components and how they contribute to project pricing.