Key considerations for government and heritage commercial painting projects

Heritage buildings are invaluable links to our past, and painting them requires specialised care and expertise. At Dukes, we have extensive experience in handling government and heritage commercial painting projects, ensuring compliance with regulations and preserving historical integrity.

As your trusted provider of commercial painting and remedial building repairs across Sydney and NSW, we use a range of specialised techniques and materials to manage the intricacies of working with historical sites and busy government buildings. Here, we explore the unique challenges and considerations these projects entail.

Heritage projects require strict adherence to conservation principles and regulations, including guidelines from the ICOMOS Burra Charter and the NSW Heritage Act. These regulations ensure that work is carried out without damaging the building’s heritage fabric.

Before commencing work, contractors must typically attend a heritage induction conducted by the Principal’s Heritage Specialist. This induction covers specific requirements and the conservation philosophy necessary for the project.

Protecting the heritage fabric is paramount. Contractors must use extra measures to preserve these historical elements, such as non-staining materials like plastic and coated timber blocks for scaffolding. Additionally, direct attachment to stonework or brickwork is prohibited without prior approval.

Compliance with government regulations is essential for all commercial painting projects, especially those involving heritage buildings. This includes adhering to NSW Government policies such as the Supplier Code of Conduct and the Industrial Relations Guidelines.

In addition to the mandatory work induction mentioned above, comprehensive management plans, including WHS and Environmental Management Plans, must be submitted and approved before work begins.

Working on heritage buildings involves obtaining several permits and approvals for any work impacting the heritage fabric, including activities such as asbestos removal if required.

Heritage projects require a nuanced approach that prioritises minimal intervention and the use of appropriate materials.

A deep understanding of current conservation philosophy is crucial. Techniques and materials must be chosen to preserve the building’s original appearance and materials. For instance, wrapping scaffolding points of contact with non-staining materials helps prevent damage to the heritage fabric. Heritage projects often necessitate the use of traditional techniques and materials to maintain historical authenticity.

Limewash Application
Instead of standard paints, traditional limewash coatings may be used. This involves the preparation and application of limewash onsite, a technique that preserves the building’s original aesthetic.

Paint Removal Methods
Specific methods, such as high-temperature steam cleaning and heritage-approved paint removers like Peel Away or Heritage No.1 Natural Paint Removal Poultice, are used to remove non-traditional paints without damaging the underlying layers.

Government and heritage buildings are typically functional spaces that require careful scheduling to minimise disruption during commercial painting. Noisy and disruptive work is limited to specific hours outside of normal operations. Additionally, temporary security measures, such as fencing and boarding, are necessary to secure work areas and protect the public and building occupants.

Government and heritage projects require meticulous attention and specialised expertise, as they hold immense historical and cultural significance. We approach these projects with a profound respect for the architectural legacy they represent.

Understanding the importance of conservation principles, compliance with regulations, and how to preserve historical integrity, we deliver projects that not only meet but exceed client expectations.

Are you searching for an experienced commercial painter for your heritage or government building? We can handle it with care and professionalism. Dukes has 65 years of experience working on historically significant buildings, such as Sydney Town Hall.

Request a quote or contact Dukes today for expert advice tailored to your needs.