First impressions can make all the difference in a commercial setting, so damaged exteriors can do real damage.
From fades to chips, even weathering, cladding has to look the part to instil confidence in customers. Leaving these issues to grow can reduce the value of your property, too, and allow structural damage to spread.
This is why cladding spraying is so important, acting as a fast and cost-efficient way to restore and protect your property. Vastly cheaper than full replacements and with services built around your schedule, it’s a crucial form of building maintenance.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire cladding spraying process. We’ll look at what’s involved and what to expect from a professional commercial cladding spraying team, whether you manage industrial units, retail premises, warehouses, or something else entirely.
What is Cladding Spraying?
Simply put, cladding spraying is when you recoat cladding with specialised spray painting systems. This can transform a building’s exterior, and can be applied to:
- Metal cladding like steel or aluminium
- Powder-coated surfaces
- UPVC cladding
- Composite panels
And more.
Not only does cladding spraying rejuvenate the appearance of your building, but it can make panels more weather-resistant and extend their lifespan without the cost of replacements.
There are also various colours available with cladding spraying thanks to colour-matching capabilities.
When Should you Spray your Cladding?
There are many reasons to carry out cladding spraying on your commercial premises. Popular examples are when your building shows the following signs:
- Discolouration or faded colours
- Corrosion or flaked paint
- Dents or visible scratches
- Inconsistencies like patches
- Colours changing due to weather conditions
An incredibly effective option, cladding spraying is fantastic for rebranding or selling a commercial or industrial property. It can also bring together old and new cladding after repairs or building extension.
Step-by-Step Guide to The Cladding Spraying Process
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Site Assessment
Before any spraying starts, a team of professionals should carry out a detailed site visit. This helps them identify the cladding materials and condition, as well as any damage. They can also review access requirements and plan for drainage and bad weather.
Finally, a site assessment helps clarify the paint finish and colour options available, depending on the branding requirements and surface materials.
After the assessment is complete, you’ll receive a detailed quote and plan of the work required. This will include the timeline, access requirements, and methodology.
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Surface Prep
One of the most important steps in any cladding spraying service, surface preparation involves cleaning with pressure washing or soft washing. This removes any dirt or loss paint flakes, rust, grease, oil, and any other contaminants that can reduce adhesion for cladding spray.
Failure to properly prepare your surfaces and have them cleaned can lead to peeling and early failure, not to mention bubbling.
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Protection and Primer Application
All surrounding areas will be masked and protected, such as windows, doors, lights, signs, and render/brick edges. Sheeting will be used to avoid overspray and keep the site clean.
A primer coating will also be applied if required, but this will depend on the surface and paint system used. Primer coatings can be helpful on bare metal, oxidised cladding, or untreated/heavily sanded surfaces.
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Spraying Begins
Here comes the magic, and using the relevant cladding spray painting systems, paint is applied in smooth, even layers. Work will be completed in sections to avoid overlaps and patches.
The number of coats will depend on the condition and colour requirements, and most commercial cladding coatings are quick-drying and weather-resistant. This means your site can operate with minimal downtime.
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Final Inspection
Once the spray cladding job is complete and everything is dried, a final inspection will be carried out.
This ensures:
- Consistent coverage
- No missed/patchy areas
- Smooth finishes with no runs or bubbling
- Colour matching
Touch-ups can be carried out at this stage if needed, and the site is then tidied and returned for handover.
What Are The Benefits of Cladding Spraying?
There are many benefits to cladding spraying, such as:
- Cost effective alternative to replacement, and very effective
- Better brand image and kerb appeal
- Extended surface lifespan
- Flexible colour options
- Fast turnaround times with minimal disruption
How Long Does Cladding Spraying Take?
Of course, no two buildings are the same, and the time taken will depend on how complex and large your commercial site is.
However, you can expect the following turnarounds as a general rule of thumb:
- 1-2 days for small units or retail shopfronts
- 2-4 days for medium warehouses and offices
- 5-7 days for large retail parks and industrial estates with multiple units
It’s best to get in touch to find out how long your job may take, as the above timescales are estimates and may vary. Weather can also play a role in how long a job will take, so this needs to be factored in if necessary.
How Long Does Cladding Spraying Last?
A professional cladding spraying service should last for at least ten years, but this will depend on the surface condition and quality of the spraying systems used. There are also external factors like the weather and location, and how well the coatings are maintained following the works.
One thing that is certain is that choosing an experienced contractor with years of experience is the best way to make the most of your cladding spraying and guarantees longer-lasting coverage.
Final Thoughts
Cladding spraying can be incredibly effective and boost your property’s appearance and structural integrity. It’s cheaper than full replacements and can transform your property into something that matches your brand and your aspirations.
At Pressure Washing Co., our cladding spraying service is built for commercial and industrial properties across the UK, and we have years of experience changing the fortunes of businesses. With pressure washing and various other services also available, we can handle the entire process with minimal disruption and fantastic, long-lasting results.
Ready to refresh your commercial cladding? Get in touch with the experts at Pressure Washing Co. today for a site visit and no-obligation commercial cladding spraying quote.
