Strata Painting in Brisbane: Key Questions and Considerations for Property Owners

What is strata painting and why is it important for property owners?

This is a specialised form of painting that usually involves painting the common areas of multi-unit buildings. It may also include painting individual residences in addition to public areas. Most commonly, strata painting involves painting the exterior of a building, as well as interiors such as the manager’s office/reception area, perhaps a games and entertainment room, a gym within the building, and other shared areas of the apartment or townhouse complex.

The reason strata painting is so important for property owners is it not only ensures the common areas look modern and presentable, but it also maintains or increases the value of individual properties. In addition, if you’re looking for a lessee or want to keep a current tenant happy, strata painting helps guarantee that the building has a certain allure and is well-maintained.

How often should strata properties be painted in Brisbane?

As a general rule to keep the property looking respectable, paint the common areas every three to five years. This timeframe may change if there is damage to the walls or ceiling, such as storm damage, or if the paintwork is stained or faded.

Budget constraints may also dictate how often strata properties receive a fresh coat of paint in Brisbane apartment blocks and townhouses.

Property managers can extend the life of paintwork by regularly washing the walls in public areas of the building, to keep them free of stains, hand prints, scuff marks and so forth.

What should property owners look for when hiring a strata painter?

1. Experience

One of the main things property owners should look for in a strata painter is experience in this area of the craft. Not all painting contractors are specialists in this form of painting. Apartment buildings, for instance, may be several floors high or more, so experience working at heights is essential.

2. Eco-friendly paint

Sustainability and caring for the environment are common concerns, so choose an eco-friendly painting company. This type of paint is low-VOC and emits fewer pollutants than traditional paint, resulting in healthier air quality with no irritation to the eyes, nose or throat.

3. Price

Finding a quality painter for the right price is a balancing act. The most expensive quote doesn’t necessarily guarantee the best work, but a quote that seems too cheap may mean the painter will skimp on quality. Gather quotes that include a breakdown of all the costs, and choose a contractor with experience and a reputation for doing excellent work.

4. References and credentials

Ask your proposed contractors for references and credentials before making a firm decision. Check that the company has a licence and has the necessary insurance, such as public liability. It’s also a good idea to inspect a portfolio of the painter’s previous strata painting work. We can provide all of that at Kraudelt Painting.

How does the strata painting process work?

A. Site inspection

The first step is inspecting the building to determine which areas require painting, and if repairs need doing before painting can take place.

B. Selecting colours

The painting contractor liaises with stakeholders or the body corp to select the appropriate colour scheme for the repaint.

C. Setting a schedule

This is where stakeholders and the painting contractor determine a timeline for completing the project, with a reasonable start and finish date. Make plans to ensure minimum disruption to residents while painting takes place.

D. Preparation

The painter cleans the surfaces, then sands and primes them in preparation for the finish coat. This ensures proper paint adhesion and extends longevity.

E. Application of the top coat

Using only quality paint and equipment, the contractor applies the top coat using the correct techniques to ensure a smooth and aesthetically pleasing finish.

What are the costs involved in strata painting?

The overall cost of strata painting depends on several factors, such as the size and surface area that needs painting, the fees a contractor charges for materials and labour, and whether the building needs repairs as part of the facelift.

Contractors quote strata painting projects on a case by case basis. There is no one price fits all approach. Asking for quotes is the only way to determine how much the project will cost.