As a business owner, there will probably come a time when you need to get your building painted. Many business owners wonder where to turn when it comes to hiring a painter, though. Should you lean on a Commercial or Industrial painting company? What is the difference? It’s important that you understand the difference between these two types of painters. You want to ensure the job is done right the first time and that the painter you hire is a good fit for your needs. Read on for more information about the differences between Commercial and Industrial painters so you can find the right company for the job.
Basic Difference Between Commercial and Industrial Painters
Both Commercial and Industrial painters do paint projects for business purposes; however, each type of painter has a different goal. Commercial painting, on one hand, is typically used when painting a business like a storefront or some other business where customers are usually present to see the interior of the building. In this case, the paint on the walls should be very durable, but it should also be welcoming, warm, and invoke positive feelings for the customer. Painting in industrial settings values function over looks and durability. This type of paint is simply expected to stand up to harsh conditions, such as those present in a manufacturing or factory-type environment.
The Industrial Painting Approach
Commercial painters focus on the look of the paint job once finished, but Industrial painting experts focus more on creating a finish that is very durable and will stand the test of time, even if it may not look very pretty. Industrial painting is typically done in manufacturing businesses. Businesses that use this type of painting process are typically not ones where customers and other people visit, so the way the paint looks is not an issue.
When paining for industrial purposes, most painters tend to use oil-based paints instead of latex ones. Although oil-based paints take a long time to dry, they last longer and are more durable. Most often, industrial painters will also apply a finish or a protective varnish to ensure that the paint job is even more durable.
Other times, painting for industrial purposes can mean any painting that is done on machines, like cars, boats, or planes. In these instances, durability is still an important factor, but painters will also try to make the paint job look as aesthetically pleasing as possible since it’s something people will be looking at a lot.
The Commercial Painting Approach
If you own a business that has a retail store or have to have customers or clients in your office on a regular basis, you’re going to want to choose a commercial painting approach. People will portray your business as more professional and reliable if the walls of your store or office are painted well. A good paint job can leave your customers feeling happy and good about your company overall.
In most instances, commercial painters use a good quality latex paint. Although latex paint may not be as durable as oil-based paints, it has many other benefits. One of the best things about latex paint is how quickly it dries. This is especially helpful for business owners who need to get their store open quickly or are just looking to do a paint touch up and need to re-open their store very fast. Latex paint is unfortunately not very durable, but in commercial instances, it doesn’t really need to be. The walls of a commercial business typically don’t see the same type of abuse that those of an industrial business do.
Overall, commercial painters tend to us the same approach as painters who paint in a residential setting, but you’ll want to ensure that you hire a company that specializes in large jobs, since painting at a commercial level requires a large and experienced team of painters.
Choosing the Right Industrial Painting Company
Now that you know a little bit more about the differences between Industrial and Commercial painting, making your decision on who to hire to paint your business should be a lot easier. Remember, if your business deals with members of the public every day, you’ll want to ensure you hire someone specializing in commercial projects. But, if your business is more manufacturing-based, or you’re painting an area that will be exposed to extreme temperatures or other chemical substances, a company specializing in industrial projects is the right way to go.
Once you determine which type of painter you’d like to hire, the next step is finding a painting company that will be reliable and meet your exact needs. Be sure to do a lot of research on each of your contenders. Check references and ask around to see if any of your friends, family, co-workers, or business partners have any recommendations. While you may be tempted to just go with the cheapest company to save money for other, more important business needs, this isn’t always the best idea. While you can get a good service from a cheap painter, be sure to also consider the following:
- What will I get for my money?
- How experienced is the team?
- What has the company’s track record been with other people who have hired them?
Sit down and discuss your project with each of the companies you are deciding between. Once you’ve found one that can provide you with all the right answers, you’ve likely found your perfect match. If you’re looking for an experienced industrial painter in Philadelphia PA, American Painting and Decorating can provide you with both commercial and industrial services. The company has been in business for over 20 years, is a PDCA (Painting & Decorating Contractors of America) Accredited Contractor, is knowledgeable about a variety of different painting techniques, tools, and finishes, and is capable of working in a challenging environment. We’re licensed and insured, and your satisfaction is guaranteed. Visit our website at americanpaintinganddecorating.com to determine whether or not we are a good fit for your commercial or industrial painter needs.