Why repair before paint is non-negotiable for success

Skilled worker doing remedial work on rooftop

In commercial painting, success hinges on a straightforward, non-negotiable principle – paint coatings are only as good as the surface they are applied to. That’s why repair before paint is also non-negotiable. At Dukes, we complete over 300 commercial painting projects each year. At least 70% of these projects require remedial building repairs prior to painting.

We have been transforming spaces since 1958, and we have a proven track record of delivering high-quality projects that exceed expectations. For paint longevity, building owners and managers must factor repairs into the scope of work. Let’s explore how and why repair before paint is an essential step toward achieving those results.

Old concrete wall with cracked flaking paint.

What happens to your paint system when you don’t repair first

When the surface for painting exhibits cracks, drumminess, delamination or rot, the repercussions of neglecting the necessary repairs are extensive. The newly applied paint, rather than providing a protective shield, is susceptible to flaking and peeling, allowing air and water to enter the building envelope. This initial failure of the paint coating then hastens the deterioration of the entire system, creating vulnerable pathways for contaminants that can damage the fabric of the building.

From an aesthetic standpoint, surface issues can also lead to colour inconsistencies, preventing a uniform and professional appearance and finish.

As specialists in strata and commercial buildings, we often encounter problems such as failed render, concrete spalling, failed joints, rotten timber, failed flashings and cracked and loose brickwork. Beyond their aesthetic impact, these issues, if unaddressed, can serve as entry points for water into the building, leading to additional complications and accelerating the breakdown of the external facade.

Worker painting the window

Saving time and money

Neglecting surface repairs before painting risks premature paint breakdown, often occurring before the warranty expiration. However, it’s crucial to note that paint failure resulting from application to a poor surface is not covered under standard warranties.

Painters are often reluctant to address surface-related failures, placing owners and managers in the challenging position of having to invest in repainting, incurring time and financial costs.

Being proactive and addressing issues upfront not only saves time and money in the present but also establishes a foundation for future efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In essence, investing in comprehensive repairs early on leads to enduring savings and reduced stress over time.

On going construction

The Dukes process

At Dukes, our team can diagnose, scope and repair various building defects prior to painting to ensure a robust and enduring solution. Traditional painters often focus solely on the painting aspect, preferring building owners to independently engage builders for necessary repairs.

Because our service is comprehensive, you get both builders and painters under one contract designed to optimise long-term savings. By efficiently coordinating remedial building work and commercial painting tasks, we streamline processes such as single use of scaffolding and other access methods. This unified approach not only ensures that both jobs are done correctly the first time but also consolidates warranties for building repairs and painting under a single banner.

Our five step process includes:

  1. Scoping and estimation – identifying and anticipating repairs that may become likely during the painting project.
  2. Budgeting – assisting building owners before signing contracts to ensure they have adequate funds for all repairs.
  3. Remedial Execution – making building repairs before painting begins on site.
  4. Painting or repainting execution – Painting or repainting with a fit-for-purpose coating system.
  5. Warranty – providing a warranty for the painting work and the remedial building repairs.

We collaborate with engineers and consultants to incorporate building repairs into the scope of works before project initiation, ensuring optimal solutions for our clients. For commercial building owners, we advise engaging a consultant to facilitate the management of large-scale repair and commercial painting projects.

Safety and compliance

At Dukes, we go beyond paint. We are also licensed builders and have extensive experience in managing painting and repainting projects that require remedial work. It’s important to note that building works exceeding $5,000 in contract value in NSW require a contractor’s licence (specific to the type of trade work being conducted) or a licensed builder, qualifications regular painters may not have.

We recommend always checking a painter’s license before engaging them for your project to ensure they are qualified and experienced in making building repairs.

In NSW, for more serious building repairs like structural work and waterproofing, contractors must be registered building practitioners under the Design and Building Practitioners Act. Dukes is registered under this Act, and we can manage a broad range of building repairs specific to class 2 buildings (strata buildings).

Talk to the experts in commercial painting and remedial building repairs

Success doesn’t come from cutting corners. It comes from doing things right the first time, every time. For the best possible result for your project, choose a company that offers high quality, comprehensive solutions. Choose Dukes.

We know paint. We specialise in various industries including strata, retirement living and aged care, commercial property, education and government and heritage. We have a professional team and the right resources to save you time and money long term.

For lasting, transformative commercial painting and remediation solutions, contact us for a quote today.

For lasting, transformative commercial painting and remediation solutions