Sun-Soaked Storefront

CASE STUDY

A retailer had an exterior storefront that received direct sunlight during the majority of the day.  The window frames, millions, and sills had originally been painting with the same black paint used on the interior storefront windows.  However, the paint had faded over time from the direct sunlight exposure to a medium gray.  In addition to repainting the exterior window frames, the retailer requested that the new black paint selected would prove more weather/sunlight resistant than the original, yet still be a cost effective option.    

Scope

The scope of work needed to complete this conversion:

1. Protect all storefront surfaces not being painted (brick and stone)
2. Prime and paint all previously painted window surfaces on (30) storefront windows of varying heights.
3. Provide before and after photos of the storefront to the client’s Home Office

Challenges

The challenges of this project included:

1. All work needed to be completed overnight.
2. Some windows were 20 feet above ground level.
3. A new paint spec needed to be sourced that matched the old spec in appearance yet would also provided a more sunlight resistance finish.
4. The storefront needed to return to “ready for business” each morning one hour prior to store opening.
5. The storefront was located outdoors which introduced weather related issues and limitations.
6. Project deadline was set for 2 days. 

Solution

We understood that the client placed extreme importance on their storefront presentation as it provided the first impression to their brand.  The work area needed to be returned to a presentable condition each morning prior to start of business throughout the project’s duration.  In order to meet the deadline, labor would need to be effectively maximized and the overall size and height of the storefront would need to be taken into consideration.  Our solution for the project included:

1. Utilization of a large, maneuverable lift to allow access to several windows by multiple technicians at a time.
2. A new paint with heightened UV protection to help withstand the suns effects and help keep the black paint black for as long as possible was identified and provided to the client for their review and approval.
3. A technician who had specific expertise in painting preparation (taping windows, covering brick and other exposed surfaces, etc.) was added to the project team to facilitate maximum efficiency throughout the crew. 
4. Weather was monitored via internet to prepare crew for any inclement weather which may have affected project deadline.

Summary

Resicom completed all 30 storefront windows within the given 2 day timeframe.  The client conducted an onsite inspection after completion, and was pleased with the color and overall application. The success of the project resulted in Resicom being awarded additional work orders for 4 other locations experiencing similar issues. Furthermore, the client adopted the recommended paint spec for all new store construction going forward.  By understanding the client’s parameters and striving to not just execute a work order, but provide an innovative solution, we were able to not only meet the expectations of the client, but better yet exceed them.