How to Prepare Your Commercial Building for Exterior Painting in Calgary

Gather the Tools You Need Prior to Starting Your Painting Project

Before you begin any exterior painting project, make sure you have the proper equipment. At minimum, you will need:

• Lift equipment for upper levels
• Commercial paint sprayers
• A power washer
• High-quality exterior primer
• Calgary-appropriate exterior paint
• Painter's tape and protective coverings

Select Paint That Matches Your Building Material

Different surfaces need different coatings. Concrete exteriors require concrete paint because the surface is porous. Stucco, metal siding, and wood each have their own requirements. Choosing the correct product improves adhesion, durability, and long-term appearance.

Confirm Safety and Legal Requirements for your Painting Project

Ensure that all insurance and business protections are in place before any work begins. This typically includes personal injury coverage, workers' compensation, and property damage insurance. It is always safer to be prepared.

Step 1: Clean the Exterior of the Commercial or Retail Space Properly

Paint will not bond to dirty or dusty surfaces. Start the project by cleaning the entire building.

Use a Power Washer for Best Results

A power washer removes dust, pollutants, mildew, and buildup from Calgary weather. A clean surface helps primer and paint stick more effectively and improves the final finish.

Step 2: Protect Surrounding Areas

Once the building is clean, protect everything that should remain paint free.

Mask Key Areas with Painter's Tape

Line windows, doors, light fixtures, railings, and signage with painter's tape. Use drop cloths or plastic coverings to protect landscaping, sidewalks, and outdoor furniture. This step helps achieve sharp lines and prevents paint overspray.

Step 3: Apply a High-Quality Primer

A strong primer layer improves adhesion and creates a smooth, consistent surface for paint.

Why Primer Is Important when Painting Commercial Space

• Seals the exterior surface
• Helps paint apply evenly
• Extends the lifespan of the paint
• Creates a uniform base for colour consistency

Spray the primer across the entire exterior and allow it to dry fully before proceeding.

Step 4: Paint the Exterior

After the primer has dried, you can begin applying the paint.

Work from the Top Down

Professional painters start at the highest point of the building and move downward using smooth, overlapping motions. This helps prevent drips and ensures even coverage.

Use Paint Designed for Calgary Conditions

Choose exterior paint that resists UV fading, temperature changes, and moisture. Calgary's climate can be hard on exterior surfaces, so using weather-resistant paint helps preserve the finish.

Step 5: Allow the Paint to Dry Completely

Let the paint cure before removing tape, touching up edges, or reopening the area to foot traffic. Once dry, your building will have a refreshed and professional new look.

For a Professional Finish, Contact Calgary's Exterior Painting Experts

Preparing a commercial building for exterior painting takes planning, attention to detail, and the right equipment. If you want a professional result without the stress of managing the process yourself, Calgary Commercial Painting by Roller Coater can help.

We provide high-quality commercial exterior painting services throughout Calgary. Our team handles surface preparation, product selection, and full application to ensure a long-lasting finish.

For questions or to book a commercial painting estimate, contact Calgary Commercial Painting by Roller Coater today at (403) 247-2468 or fill out the form below.