Categories Painting, Painting Tips

5 Key Steps to Follow Before Painting Metal Equipment

Painting metal equipment is a creative way to protect and extend the lifespan of metal surfaces. However, it is important to follow certain steps for the paint to adhere properly and provide the desired protection. Here are five key steps to follow before painting metal equipment.

1. Clean the Surface

Before beginning metal painting in Palm Beach, cleaning the metal equipment’s surface is important. Dirt, grease, and other contaminants can prevent the paint from adhering properly, causing it to peel and flake off over time. Start by wiping the surface with a cloth dampened with water, then use a degreasing solvent to remove any remaining dirt and grease. This should leave the surface clean and ready for painting.

To ensure your surface is completely cleaned, use a clean cloth to wipe the surface with detergent. Once the metal equipment has been properly cleaned, you’ll be ready to move on.

2. Prep the Surface

Once the metal equipment has been cleaned, it’s time to prep the surface for painting. Begin by sanding the surface to remove any excess dirt or rust. This will help create a smooth surface better suited for paint adhesion. You should use a sanding block to ensure the surface is properly prepped. Working with a metal painting contractor to prep the surface is recommended.

As a final step in this process, use sandpaper to remove any imperfections or bumps that may be present in the metal equipment. You also want to ensure that any scratches or dents are filled before metal painting in Palm Beach.

3. Remove Loose Paint

Any paint that is peeling or chipping off should be removed before applying a new coat of paint. To do this, use a wire brush or putty knife to scrape off the paint gently. Be sure to wear protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area during this process. If this is not done, the existing paint can interfere with the adhesion of the new paint.

For stubborn areas, the metal painting contractor may need to use a chemical paint stripper to remove the existing paint. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product’s label to ensure safety. You should inspect the surface for any remaining paint pieces and remove them as needed.

4. Repair Any Damages

If there are any scratches or dents in the metal equipment, make sure to repair them before metal painting in Florida. You can use a putty knife or metal filler to fill any gaps or dents. Allow the repair material to dry completely before painting.

When repairing scratches and dents, use the same material used to paint the metal equipment, so they blend in properly. If you cannot find the same type of material, you can use a primer compatible with the paint you plan to use.

5. Prime the Surface

Primer is an important step in preparing metal equipment for metal painting in Florida. Primer helps seal the surface and ensure the paint will adhere correctly. When applying primer, use a brush or roller to ensure even coverage.

You should ensure the primer is completely dry before the commercial metal painting. If you use a spray-on primer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

By following these five key steps before painting metal equipment, you can ensure that the paint adheres properly and provides the desired protection. Make sure to clean, prep, remove loose paint, repair damages, and prime the surface before getting started. Following these steps will help to prevent any problems or issues that may arise during commercial metal painting. 

A-1 Tropic Painting & Waterproofing is a professional metal painting contractor in Palm Beach that can help you with the entire process. From cleaning and preparing the surface to applying sealants and primers, the team at A-1 Tropic Painting & Waterproofing has the experience and expertise to get the job done right.Contact A-1 Tropic Painting & Waterproofing today for more information on metal painting in Florida.

Categories Painting Tips

When Is the Best Time for Interior and Exterior Painting?

Paint and sealants help your home or business look its best. Furthermore, they protect surfaces from extreme weather and temperatures. You must meet certain environmental conditions, so these coverings properly work.

 

What Is the Difference Between Paint and a Sealant?

Paint is a substance mixed with different colors. It’s spread over the interior or exterior surface and leaves a decorative coating that protects your property. Conversely, a sealant, such as condominium sealants in West Palm Beach, are paste-like liquids that make an area watertight and/or airtight.

 

Best Time for Painting the Interior

When you ask a commercial painting contractor in Palm Beach about the best time to paint an interior, they’ll probably answer any time of the year. Generally, spaces should be dry and free of dust to complete a project. Also, there should be adequate circulation to absorb the paint fumes.

 

These conditions apply to brush and roller painting methods plus electrostatic painting in Palm Beach. The latter is a manufacturing process that uses charged particles for efficient work area coverage. None of these methods work if a residence or business is too humid or dirty.

 

Best Time for Painting the Exterior

The best time for exterior painting is during mild days free of excessive humidity. It’s tough for a commercial painting contractor in Palm Beach to find good days to do this. Due to humid ocean breezes, projects must be performed during the early morning or later in the day.

 

It’s best to keep summer projects to a minimum. Even electrostatic painting of Palm Beach is done in cooler months to allow the paint to adhere to exterior surfaces. In other areas of the country, the paint should be used on outdoor services on dry days without the threat of excessive wind or potential rain.

 

The situation is different for sealants. Contractors that handle condominium sealants in West Palm Beach use materials that are already water-resistant. Plus, they quickly dry on surfaces. So, any time of year is sufficient to seal areas from water or the elements.

 

How to Get Started

Consult a local contractor or home improvement store when ready to paint or seal your property’s interior and exterior. They can recommend products that withstand the effects of humidity for all-year use. Although these mildew-resistant items cost more, the return on investment is greater in terms of protection.

 

On the other hand, you need to speak with numerous contractors if you want professionals to handle the work. Put together a set of questions they must provide answers to before you consider them. Also, see if they provide free quotes on the needed work.

 

In the end, reach out to the representatives of A-1 Tropic Painting & Waterproofing if you’re ready to get your property painted and sealed. They’ll work with you to provide services within your budget.

Categories Commercial Painting South Florida, Painting, Painting Tips

5 Signs Your Commercial Building Needs Re-Painting

commercial painting contractor south florida palm beach miami

Does the exterior of your commercial building need to be repainted? View our top signs below.

Living in the Sunshine State has its perks. Plenty of sunshine year-round and fresh, crisp ocean air are just a few of them. But when it comes to your commercial building, these perks can often turn into big problems. Blistering heat, saltwater in the air, and frequent summer storms take their toll on your commercial building, causing costly damage, not to mention an unsightly appearance for your building. In addition to protecting your building and tenants, a fresh repaint also increases curb appeal, creating a welcoming business environment.

Repainting your building is a smart business move, as it can provide a new look and brand for your business that gets you noticed. Now is the perfect time to inspect your building for possible exterior damage. Before cracks and rot set in, look for these 5 signs that will tell you its time to hire a commercial painting contractor:

  1. Mold, Mildew or Algae
    Excess moisture in the air from high humidity and rain can cause mold and other issues that quickly spread. In addition to stains and odors, be on the lookout for black or green patches of mold beneath the surface, and small black dots on the surface (mildew). Algae is more common than mold and has a similar look but is much easier to remove. If you notice any of these, take immediate action to safeguard your tenants.
  2. Bubbling
    Pockets of air underneath the paint create bubbles on the wall and are signs of water damage.
  3. Peeling or Chipping
    Weather takes its toll on the parts of your building without paint or sealants and spreads. When paint peels back or chips, it lets water and sunlight hit the bare siding, which causes damage.
  4. Dry Rot
    Dry rot happens when fungus from moisture grows underneath walls and floors. If left untreated, it can spread and wreak damage on your commercial building’s foundation. Quality primer and caulk added before repainting adds a barrier between the paint and building, helping account for temperature variations and preventing dry rot.
  5. Fading and Chalking
    The Florida sun’s UV rays take a toll on commercial buildings. A telltale sign of this is uneven coloring on your exterior walls. Old painting also becomes chalky over time and the powdery paint comes right off. Buildings that are directly exposed to sunlight usually require repainting once every three years.

Typical commercial industry standards recommend exterior repainting every 3-5 years, an interior painting once every 5 years and maintenance touch-ups at least once a year. This is important because of the paint:

• Protects the exterior
• Protects from water damage
• Protects from sun damage
• Prevents damage from termites and rodents
• Extends the lifetime of your siding

If you have experienced any of these signs of water damage to your building, its time to contact a commercial painting company to prevent further damage. For more than 30 years, A-1 Tropic Painting & Waterproofing has been dedicated to making sure your project is done correctly, on time, every time. See our references,click here and give us a call at (561) 670-2653.