Proper preparation prevents poor performance! This is definitely true when it comes to redecorating as a correctly prepared wall can drastically increase the longevity of your paint. We’ve put together a few tips to help prepare your property ahead of your next revamp:
1. Choose the right season
When it comes to painting external walls, summer is the ideal season. With more light and the weather a bit more reliable, there are more hours to paint without disruption. This is less important with indoor projects, but it is still wise to choose a time when fewer people are on the premises, such as over the holiday periods. Make sure you inform your employees and any neighbouring businesses with some advanced warning so they have plenty of time to organise themselves during this time.
2. Plan your colour palette
It’s important to choose your colour palette wisely depending on what type of business you have. To help you choose, check out our blog post on the psychological impact of different hues and which businesses these would most suit. It’s also worth considering how much light reaches the space and looking at paint colours that would help boost this.
3. Prepare your surroundings
This may seem like an obvious step, but as painting can get messy, it’s crucial to cover your furniture and remove any furniture that you can. Now is also the time to make any repairs to fixtures and fittings. For external painting jobs, trim any branches that could get in the way and ensure there is access to power sockets.
4. Create a smooth surface
It’s essential to start any paint job with a perfectly smooth surface. This means patching any holes or cracks in the walls and removing any nails. This can be done with plaster from any DIY shop. After it has dried, sand down any imperfections.
5. Dust & Clean
Dust, dirt, cobwebs and mould can accumulate over the years on walls very easily. Removing this with either a cloth or a hoover with a brush attachment is the first step to cleaning them. Follow this with a little soapy water and a slightly damp sponge to remove any remaining dirt. If any scuff marks persist, baking soda mixed with water to form a paste should remove these easily. Any flakes of paint on external walls can be removed with a pressure washer or wire brush.
GME specialise in high-quality commercial painting in and around Yorkshire. For more information on our services or advice for your property give us a call on 01924 723 723.