When it’s time to repaint the inside of your commercial building or industrial facility, hiring the right interior painters can make all the difference. From minimizing downtime to staying on schedule and budget, experienced professionals know how to get the job done right with minimal disruption to your operations. If you’re managing a property in New England, here’s what you need to know before bringing in a crew.
What to Expect from Professional Interior Painters
Not all interior painters are the same. Commercial and industrial painting projects require a different level of experience and planning than residential jobs. High-traffic environments, strict schedules, and tenant coordination all come into play.
A professional company like W.T. Kenney understands these demands. You can expect a site visit before the job starts, a clear project timeline, and a communication plan that keeps everyone in the loop. Crews should be uniformed, trained in safety protocols, and equipped to work in active commercial environments.
How Long Will It Take?
Timelines vary based on the size of the space, the surface conditions, and the scope of work. Most commercial painting jobs range from a few days to a couple of weeks. A typical office repaint might take 3–5 business days, while large warehouses or industrial interiors can stretch into multiple phases.
Ask your interior painters for a clear timeline in writing. This should include prep work, painting, drying time, and final walkthroughs.
Planning for Downtime and Disruption
Minimizing disruptions is one of the top priorities during any commercial repaint. Interior painters with commercial experience will often work in off-hours, overnights, or weekends to reduce business impact. If working during business hours, they may phase the project by room or floor to keep operations moving.
For facilities that operate 24/7 or can’t afford interruption, scheduling becomes even more important. Be upfront about your hours and operational requirements during the bidding process.
In addition to scheduling considerations, think about who will need access to painted areas. Will tenants need alternative workspaces? Will walkways need to be redirected? Good planning helps reduce stress across the board.
Prepping Your Space Before the Painters Arrive
Preparation can speed up the project and reduce costs. Here are a few practical steps property managers can take:
- Move or cover any sensitive equipment and electronics
- Remove personal items and loose wall decor
- Provide access to locked areas in advance
- Notify tenants or employees of the painting schedule
- Confirm ventilation systems are functioning well
Your interior painters will typically handle taping, masking, and surface cleaning, but clearing the space beforehand allows them to get started faster and keeps the worksite safer. Some commercial painters also offer prep services if you prefer a hands-off approach—just be sure to ask in advance.
How Interior Painting Affects Daily Operations
While most professional painters try to limit disruption, some impact is unavoidable. You may need to reroute foot traffic, close off certain areas temporarily, or shift office seating.
Good communication helps. Post clear signage, update employees and tenants regularly, and coordinate with building maintenance. The more everyone knows what to expect, the smoother the process goes.
In addition, think about how the space is used. Medical facilities, schools, or food-related operations may need extra planning or off-hours work. W.T. Kenney often coordinates with building management to develop phased schedules that keep businesses running.
What About the Smell?
Odor is a valid concern, especially in active buildings. Most commercial interior painters today use low-VOC or zero-VOC paints that release fewer chemicals and have less smell. These paints are safer for enclosed spaces and better for indoor air quality.
If your facility is sensitive to odors—such as schools, hospitals, or senior living properties—make sure your painters are using the right materials. Proper ventilation is also key. Keep windows open when possible, and run HVAC systems with fresh air intake during and after painting.
Some facilities choose to run air scrubbers or portable filtration units during and after painting to reduce airborne particles and odors even further. For longer projects, staggered scheduling can give freshly painted areas time to air out before they’re reoccupied.
Dry Time and Re-Entry
Drying times vary based on humidity, temperature, and the type of paint. Latex paints are usually dry to the touch within an hour and ready for a second coat in 4–6 hours. Full curing takes longer—typically 7 to 30 days—but spaces can usually be reoccupied the day after painting.
Make sure your interior painters provide guidance on when it’s safe to reenter the painted areas. If you’re unsure, this EPA guide on indoor air quality offers helpful information for commercial building managers.
How Often Should You Repaint?
Interior commercial spaces should be repainted every 5 to 10 years, depending on the environment and usage. High-traffic areas like hallways, lobbies, and restrooms may need fresh coats more frequently—every 3 to 5 years—to maintain a clean, professional look.
Industrial interiors with exposure to chemicals, moisture, or heavy equipment may require even more frequent maintenance. Regular walkthroughs can help identify signs of wear such as fading, peeling, or surface stains.
Ask your painters about a long-term maintenance plan. Repainting on a schedule can actually lower total costs by preventing major deterioration. Paint isn’t just cosmetic—it protects surfaces, improves lighting, and supports tenant satisfaction.
Why Hiring the Right Interior Painters Matters
Choosing the right team means more than just comparing prices. Look for companies with experience in commercial settings, solid client reviews, and proper licensing and insurance. They should understand how to work within active facilities and provide clear communication every step of the way.
W.T. Kenney has worked with property managers and facility teams across New England for decades. From schools and office parks to warehouses and industrial plants, we’ve completed interior painting projects in just about every type of commercial setting.
Final Thoughts: Make the Right Call for Your Property
Interior painting is more than a cosmetic update—it affects your tenants, your brand image, and your building’s long-term value. The right interior painters will help you plan around your schedule, minimize downtime, and leave your space looking clean and refreshed.
If you’re a property or facility manager in New England and need experienced interior painters who know how to work in active commercial environments, W.T. Kenney is ready to help.
Contact us today to schedule a site visit or request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does interior painting cost?
Commercial interior painting costs can vary widely based on square footage, surface prep needs, paint quality, and scheduling. On average, you might expect to pay between $2 to $6 per square foot. Complex jobs, specialty coatings, or off-hours work may increase the price.
Can you use exterior paint for interior walls?
It’s not recommended. Exterior paints are formulated to withstand harsh weather, but they often contain additives that aren’t ideal for indoor air quality. Interior paints are specifically designed for enclosed spaces and offer better finishes, faster drying times, and lower odor.
How long does it take for interior paint to dry?
Most water-based interior paints dry to the touch within one hour and are ready for a second coat in about 4–6 hours. Full curing, where the paint reaches maximum hardness and durability, can take anywhere from 7 to 30 days.
How do you get rid of paint smell?
To reduce paint odor, use low-VOC or zero-VOC products and ventilate the space well during and after painting. You can also run fans, open windows, and turn on HVAC systems with fresh air settings. Some facilities use portable air scrubbers or charcoal-based odor absorbers.
