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3 Key Differences Between Commercial and Residential Painting Projects

March 3, 2025

a painter painting a wall

When planning a painting project, it’s important to understand that commercial and residential painting are not the same. While both involve applying fresh coats of paint, the similarities stop there; when it comes to the scope, materials, and processes, things tend to differ pretty significantly. Here’s a look at three of the key differences between residential and commercial painting so that whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, you’ll be able to make the best choice for your upcoming project.

1. The Size of the Painting Team

One of the most noticeable differences between commercial and residential painting is usually the size of the projects. With residential painting projects, teams usually focus on buildings like houses, apartments, condos, and other types of living spaces, whereas with commercial painting, it’s all about office buildings, schools, hospitals, restaurants, and any other retail spaces or places of business. As you can imagine, most commercial projects will be larger than residential projects – perhaps with the exception of large apartment complexes. The bigger the task is at hand; the more painters will be needed to finish the job.

2. The Type of Paint Used

The type of paint used can also differ between commercial and residential projects. For instance, it’s common for residential paints to be oil-based or water-based, and many homeowners look for products that don’t contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds). These also come in a variety of hues and sheens, as the goal with them is to produce beautiful results. With commercial paints, on the other hand, there’s more to take into consideration. While looks are important, the right coat of paint can also help with preventing corrosion, fireproofing your equipment, and reducing energy consumption. Paints with these qualities require different handling and application techniques.

3. The Scheduling of the Work

There’s an old saying that goes “Time is money,” and it essentially means that every minute a business has its door shut is a lost opportunity for revenue. That’s why many commercial painting jobs are actually performed irregularly, during weird hours, to accommodate the business hours of operation, or to disturb customers. With residential painting, it’s usually better for workers and homeowners alike if things are handled during regular business hours.

No matter what sort of project you’re planning, commercial or residential, consider your specific needs and choose a team with experience that’ll help make your vision a reality!

About Platinum Painting

Our team here at Platinum Painting has been helping homeowners and business owners all around the DFW metroplex for the last 15 years, offering expert assistance with a wide range of interior and exterior painting projects for both residential and commercial purposes.  If you have any questions about the article or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule a FREE in-home estimate, you can reach us online or call us today for more information.

Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 697-2726.

Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (817) 993-4095.  

1540 Keller Parkway Ste 108 #246, Keller, TX 76248 USA
Karl Pickens Residential Repainting for Dallas and Fort Worth (817) 380-4404 info@platinumpainting.com