When Valley Creek Commons needed a complete exterior color update, the property management team hired Fresh Paint to repaint the EIFS sign bands and standing seam metal roofs across the active Woodbury retail center. The project had to be completed without disrupting restaurants, shops, or daily customer traffic.
Key Takeaways
- THE CHALLENGEExecuting a large-scale exterior color change in a high-traffic retail environment with active tenants.
- THE COATINGPrepped and painted EIFS sign bands and standing seam metal roofs using specialized high-heat application techniques.
- THE RESULTDelivered a modernized property aesthetic safely and efficiently, securing an ongoing relationship with the management company.
The scope covered two large buildings and required extensive surface preparation, boom-lift access around patios and awnings, daily protection of tenant signage, and careful scheduling around each business's peak hours. Temperature and dew-point conditions also had to be monitored closely during application of the direct-to-metal roof coatings.
Project Summary
| Client Profile: |
Commercial Property Management Company |
| Project Location: |
Woodbury, MN |
| Primary Objective: |
Modernize the property exterior by hiring a retail store painting contractor for a complete color change. |
| Coating System: |
Direct-to-metal roof coatings and EIFS finishes implemented through our project-based maintenance program. |
| Key Outcome: |
Updated curb appeal with zero disruption to retail business operations. |
Navigating Retail Center Logistics and Prep
The initial preparation for this commercial complex was extensive. Before any coating could be applied, the crew power-washed the entire exterior, removed several bird and bee nests, and degreased the metal roofs to ensure a strong adhesion profile. Because the property features varied architectural elements, operators used boom lifts to carefully navigate over patios, pergolas, and structural awnings.
Balancing the operational hours of diverse tenants, including coffee shops that are busy in the mornings and restaurants that are busy at night, required a highly choreographed approach. Our project manager scheduled the crew to jump between the front and back of the buildings dynamically, avoiding customer interference while meeting strict timeline goals.
Applying Metal Roof Coatings and EIFS Finishes
The physical application required careful management of the Minnesota weather. Painting metal roofs during the hottest parts of the day can cause the paint to flash or streak, while high dew points in the early morning can compromise the bond. The crew timed the roof spraying and rolling precisely to navigate these temperature constraints.
"Fresh Paint was incredibly flexible with our tenants . . . The team helped rearrange the schedule to make everyone happy. I look forward to working with them in the future." - (Melissa, Property Manager)
To protect the tenants' brands, the painters meticulously wrapped and unwrapped individual storefront signage on a daily basis. By providing comprehensive commercial painting services and acting with accountability—even absorbing the cost of an unexpected interior cleanup when an unrelated roof hatch leaked during a storm—our team built immense trust with the property manager.
A Modernized Retail Aesthetic
After 15 days of coordinated effort across two large buildings, Valley Creek Commons revealed a dramatically updated look. The fresh colors on the EIFS bands and metal roofs integrated seamlessly with the surrounding Woodbury architecture, elevating the perceived value of the entire property.
The successful delivery of this high-visibility project left the retail tenants thrilled with their classy new storefronts. Furthermore, the strong communication and flexible execution led the property management company to award additional contracts to our team, solidifying a valuable long-term partnership.
Ready to Update Your Commercial Property?
We specialize in executing complex painting projects in busy retail environments without slowing down your business. Our team provides the careful coordination and technical skill required to refresh your property safely.
Do you need an exterior update for your retail center in Woodbury? Contact us today to discuss your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you paint retail centers in Woodbury during business hours?
Yes, we can paint during business hours by carefully coordinating with property managers to shift work zones based on foot traffic. We also offer weekend and overnight scheduling to ensure zero disruption to your tenants.
How do you prepare a metal roof for painting?
We prepare metal roofs by thoroughly power washing and degreasing the surface to remove all dirt and contaminants. This ensures the direct-to-metal coating bonds correctly for a durable, streak-free finish.
What is EIFS and can it be painted?
EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, which looks similar to traditional stucco. It can absolutely be painted using specialized masonry and acrylic coatings to update its color and protect the building envelope.