Preserving Paint at Self-Storage Facilities: Buildings, Doors and More

Keeping paint free of dirt will extend its life. Don’t use harsh chemicals that can harm the paint. Use mild soap and water and a soft bristled brush to wash doors and exteriors. Rinse without using a hard spray to avoid getting water in units. To avoid water spots, don’t wash metal in direct sun. If your water is extremely hard, consider getting an inexpensive in-hose filter available at an RV-supply store.

If paint is peeling or bare aluminum is showing through, the metal should be painted. As with any coating or painting project, preparation is critical. The metal must be completely cleaned prior to paint application. If you paint over chalk or metal without removing contaminants, the paint will fail. Quality paint is recommended; quality prep is essential.

Check stucco or block surfaces for cracking or peeling paint, repainting surfaces that show damage. Moisture can get into the block and lift paint. Moisture also causes damage and unsightly efflorescence, a white powder that stains the surface. If water infiltration continues, mortar can eventually deteriorate and cause costly damage.

Wood not protected by paint or stain swells and shrinks, resulting in cracking and possible water damage. If wood remains wet, it will rot.

Interior Paint Maintenance

Even though inside doors, hallway panels and other interior metal won’t chalk from exposure to U.V. rays, they still can get grimy handprints (those who rent to mechanics know what I mean), marks and grunge. Facilities close to freeways or railroads accumulate greasy, stubborn dirt on doors.

Using water in interior hallways is dangerous. People often store cardboard boxes on the floor, and if any water is accidentally spilled in the hallway, water can seep under the metal panels and damage belongings. A quality one-step waterless wash and wax can be used for easy removal of grimy handprints or for general cleaning. Some waterless wash and waxes can even remove permanent-marker graffiti. Waterless cleaners are not expensive and make the maintenance of interior metal much easier. Microfiber cloths make cleaning much easier, are inexpensive and readily available.

Don’t overlook paint in the office and bathroom. First impressions are critical. Cracked paint or dirty walls give the impression that the entire facility is dirty or not well maintained. Any cracks should be fixed, then painted.