FAQ

Commercial Painting at Kairos Power, Alameda, CAQ: What type of paint is primarily used in commercial buildings?

A: Commercial buildings can see a lot of traffic. For this reason, high gloss paints are usually the best choice for these areas. They are frequently cleaned and stand up better than matte finishes. Even though a higher gloss is more reflective, it can hide many surface imperfections. The finish can also act as a sealer, which protects high-traffic areas. Choose flat and matte finishes if you want a less reflective finish. They are a preferred choice. The descriptions below describe what may work in your facility.

  • Corner offices and others often have very little traffic. Matte and flat finishes are a good fit for this type of room, but they aren’t very durable, so that the finish won’t hold up to frequent cleaning.
  • If you’re looking for something between the flat matte finish and the glossy finish, go with eggshell. Painting contractors use this finish in lightly traveled areas, such as conference rooms. It offers just enough reflectivity to bring some lightness to a room without overdoing it.
  • If a high-gloss finish is too much shine, satin finishes will suit your preferences. For example, in areas that receive little natural light, satin finishes offer just enough reflectivity to bring some lightness to a room.
  • If your project involves high-traffic areas, such as a cafeteria or a hallway that serves as a central corridor, you’ll need a more durable solution, such as semi-gloss and high-gloss paints.

Q: How often a commercial building should be painted?

A: The rule of thumb is that a commercial building is painted every 3 to 5 years to keep it looking more updated and professional. However, it depends on how the current paint job lasts or the property owner who might have other reasons to repaint the building. For instance, the owner may want a new color scheme to attract new customers and keep their customer base interested or to signal a recent branding change. Or the commercial building is exposed to direct sunlight and thus will likely fade sooner than other buildings protected by shade. In addition, buildings exposed to extreme weather conditions could result in faster paint deterioration. Vivid colors usually tend to fade faster than neutral ones.

Q: Is there a difference between interior and exterior paint?

A: Interior paints are made with fewer VOCs, so they do not fill rooms with fumes. Lower VOCs are particularly important in healthcare facilities or areas in use while the painting project is happening. Exterior paints are often made with ingredients that will help them withstand the elements, from frequent and heavy rain to harsh sunlight, which can fade the color of the paint if not made with protective qualities.

Commercial Painting Bay AreaQ: Is Sherwin-Williams or Kelly Moore Paint better?

A: While contractors are often loyal to one brand over another, both brands offer superior quality paint that lasts a long time. Sometimes, the only reason a contractor chooses one brand over the other is that they can take advantage of sales and then pass the savings on to the customer. Another reason they prefer one brand is when a customer’s color choice is better matched with one brand over another.

Q: How long has Custom Painting, Inc. been in the business? When was it established?

A:  Custom Painting, Inc. started the business in 1982.

Q: Is Custom Painting, Inc. licensed and insured?

A: Yes. Custom Painting, Inc. is licensed (Lic. No. 512717) and insured. You can check out our current license status at the state contractor’s board website https://www.cslb.ca.gov/. You can also see there that we are bonded and insured. In addition, we are listed on the Better Business Bureau https://bbb.org, where you can see our license number.

Q: Do you provide references?

A: Yes, we provide local references upon request.

Q: How many coats of paint will you apply?

A: We apply two coats of paint in most of our projects. Two coats of paint are enough to adequately hide surface imperfections and make the paint job last longer. However, it depends on the situation – for instance, if the stains or patches are still showing through the first two coats of paint, additional coat(s) of paint may be necessary.

Q: Do you offer a warranty?

A: Yes, all our work comes with a one-year workmanship warranty. Extended warranties are also available. We also offer a one-year warranty on floor surfaces.

Q: Do you charge for an estimate?

A: We do not charge a fee to provide an estimate for your painting project. Call us at 925-294-8062 or fill out an online form to set a schedule with our estimator and receive a free estimate.