In commercial construction, paint inspection often takes a back seat, despite its critical role in ensuring the longevity and quality of a project.
Jonathan McLean, Managing Director of Core Paint Inspections, warns that neglecting proper paint inspection can lead to costly repairs and structural issues down the line.
Paint systems in commercial projects are not just about aesthetics—they play an integral role in protecting surfaces, particularly steel and concrete, from corrosion, weathering, and wear.
McLean explains, “Paint coatings are the first line of defence in many commercial buildings and infrastructure projects. If the paint fails, it’s not just about re-coating—it can compromise the underlying material, leading to costly damage and disruption.”
In industries such as construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas, protective paint systems are critical for meeting safety standards and regulatory compliance.
Failing to inspect these coatings during and after application can shorten their lifespan, resulting in expensive rework or even structural failure.
Common reasons it’s overlooked
Despite its importance, paint inspection is frequently underestimated or bypassed altogether.
According to McLean, several factors contribute to this oversight:
- Budget constraints: “Paint inspection is often viewed as an additional cost rather than a value-add. Yet, the price of rectifying coating failures far outweighs the cost of proper inspections,” says McLean.
- Lack of awareness: Many project managers and stakeholders are unaware of the potential long-term consequences of failing paint systems. “The assumption is that applying paint is simple—but achieving durability requires careful oversight,” McLean explains.
- Time pressures: Tight project deadlines often mean corners are cut during the paint application process, leaving no room for quality checks.
McLean shares an example of a recent commercial project where paint inspection prevented disaster, “We were called in to inspect coatings on a large-scale steel framework. Our tests revealed improper surface preparation, which would have caused premature corrosion within two years. Addressing the issue before completion saved the client thousands in potential repairs.”
What happens when inspections are ignored?
Neglecting paint inspections can result in:
- Premature corrosion: Poorly applied coatings fail to protect steel from rust, leading to deterioration.
- Increased maintenance costs: Repainting or repairing damaged surfaces is significantly more expensive than doing it right the first time.
- Regulatory non-compliance: Industries with strict health and safety standards, such as oil and gas, face potential fines if coatings fail to meet specifications.
How inspections add value
Core Paint Inspections works with commercial clients to ensure that coatings meet industry standards and perform as intended. Their services include:
- Surface preparation assessments.
- Wet and dry film thickness checks.
- Adhesion testing to ensure proper bonding.
McLean adds: “Our role is to catch issues early—before the project is signed off. A thorough paint inspection saves money and protects the long-term integrity of the asset.”
As the construction and manufacturing sectors continue to grow, the importance of paint inspection should not be underestimated.
McLean concludes, “Paint inspection isn’t just about appearances—it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring durability for years to come. By incorporating thorough inspections into the process, businesses can avoid unnecessary costs and safeguard their projects.”
With expertise and oversight, commercial projects can ensure that paint systems deliver both protection and performance—an investment that pays off long into the future.