Apex National Decorators

A Painter is A Painter is A Painter

NOT !!!!!  

A common misconception about the painting profession is that 'Any painter can perform all types of painting projects'.  With that premise, one can derive that the same painter who is hired to paint the exterior of your home is qualified to apply coatings @ the Chase Field roof.  Unfortunately, many General Contractors have found out the hard way that this is not true.

There are distinct differences between commercial and residential projects; 1] the types of products used, 2] the surface preparation required, 3] application specifications and techniques, 4] safety and 5] insurance/bonding requirements.  It is essential that each of these elements of the project are qualified with the contractor prior to beginning the project.

As an example, a painter unfamiliar with priming/painting exposed construction, metal deck ceilings may dramatically underestimate the amount of coatings and labor necessary to finish the ceiling as per specifications.  When a GC qualifies the painting bid, abnormally low pricing proposals usually indicate the subcontractor has not properly analyzed the plans or project.  Similarly, residential substrates are typically gypsum wallboard, wood elements and hollow/ornamental metal.  On commercial projects, there are a number of atypical substrates that require specific surface prep; another reason for qualification of contractor proposals.

Specialty coatings, epoxies and urethanes found in commercial specifications require specific application methods. An experienced applicator is familiar with the subtle nuances that can cause a coating to perform or fail.  The use of lift equipment by inexperienced operators often extends schedules, as well as adding risk factors.  Finally, insurance endorsements and potential bonding issues are varied between commercial and residential projects.  Many residential painters who bid commercial projects are unaware of additional insurance costs for waivers of subrogation and additional insureds.

Tighter markets have drawn residential contractors into the commercial field.  Commercial pproject specifications and schedules require precise, quality installations implemented with in a timely manner.  All General Contractors would do themselves a great service by qualifying the low bid prior to award, to be certain the painting contractor is capable of delivering a successful project.

 

Apex National Decorators is excited to enter the world of blogging and is looking forward to developing  new relationships and opportunities as a result.

Apex re-established itself as a Valley commercial/residential painting contractor in 2005.  From management to apprentice, all employees have displayed the committment necessary to exceed the desired expectations of its clients and thus, increase its presence in the market.  Apex Is grateful to have persevered through the  challenges in its growth from five to thirty employees; and to acknowledge the maturity and experience of its field personnel as a critical element in accomplishing it.

Many GC's have commented about the professionalism on display when Apex National applies conventional paints, plasters or designer finishes.  Our staff is proud of the projects we have completed.  Last year Montelucia Resort and Sheraton-Downtown were our two most prominent and rewarding jobs.  A unique finish was developed and applied at the Sheraton; a beautiful red leather faux that solicited raves from the design team!  Completing a project of the size and magnitude of Montelucia [paint, stains, wallcoverings, epoxies and faux were all incorporated] on an accelrated schedule was especially satisfying to the Apex team.

We look forward to answering any questions regarding paints, coatings, plasters, wallcoverings, etc ..., application techniques and problem situations.