Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial and Industrial Painting Projects

Both have advantages and disadvantages depending on the substrate and the desired outcome. Oil paint is not UV stable and is prone to fading, but it is a harder finish. Oil-based paint is also not environmentally safe because it produces dirty thinners.

Usually not unless a primer is applied first.

Metal surfaces typically require protective paints and coatings to ensure durability. When in doubt, consult a painting professional

Proper surface preparation is vital in both commercial and industrial painting. Pressure washing and cleaning are used in both and sandblasting is usually required on industrial painting projects.

No, but if the existing paint or coating is peeling, it needs to be removed.

Yes. All substrates that will be exposed require a primer. The type of primer that is used is specific to the substrate. (i.e., wood, drywall, stucco, metal, etc.)

Yes, if the materials are applied according to best practices with the correct number of coats or mils. More expensive paints are also made with higher quality base ingredients such as top-quality acrylic resins.

A paint (or coating) system is a process where different types and layers of paint or coating materials are applied in a specific sequence. The materials typically include a primer, intermediate coat and a finish coat. The primer coat is applied directly to the base material to provide protection and to give subsequent materials a solid surface to adhere to. The intermediate coating provides thickness. Multiple coats will be needed if the project specs include thick coating requirements unless the paint or coating product provides adequate thickness in a single application. The finish coat is the outermost layer and provides aesthetic appeal and protection from abrasion, water, sunlight, and other environmental conditions.

They refer to the quality of paints and coatings used. The project environment, desired quality and the customer’s budget often drive which system is used.

Usually, two coats are the minimum required. Most paint manufacturers offer to evaluate and recommend based on your specific needs.

Many industrial jobs require that a third-party inspector determine the mils (thickness of the paint) required. This is most often defined by the job specifications and the paint/coating manufacturer’s recommendations to meet warranty requirements.

The best way to ensure your painting job lasts is to use the best products available and contract the work to a professional commercial/industrial painting company like Ghaster Painting and Coatings.