PART 1 OF 3: The Best Paint Spraying Techniques for Ceilings, Corrugated Metal, and High Walls

Painting commercial and industrial buildings and structures can present its own set of challenges. In this series of articles, we share niche techniques for tricky surfaces commonly seen on commercial buildings.

Painting in the commercial and industrial space can present challenges that simply don't exist in residential spaces. A high wall in a residential space is typically 9-20 feet high. Whereas, a high wall in a commercial or industrial building can be anywhere from 20 feet to 40 feet or more. Safety is the most important part of painting high walls, but getting a quality outcome for the customer is just as important. In the first part of this series, we talk about painting high walls and common questions to help you navigate these projects.

Painting High Walls

Supplies Needed:

• Extension Pole or Pole Gun Extension
• Paint Roller or Inner Feed Roller
• Ladder, Scaffolding, or Scissor Lift

What is the easiest way to paint a high wall?

Painting high walls can be challenging, simply because of the upper arm strength required for keeping your arms up the whole time. Heights can be concerning for safety and especially for those that are afraid of heights. However, there are a few ways to make painting high walls easier. 

Depending on the height of the ceiling, a variety of ladder heights can be used. "OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) recognizes three main types of ladders: portable ladders (both self-supporting and non-self-supporting), fixed ladders, and mobile ladder stands and platforms."^SafeSite 

Using extension poles will prevent you from having to climb onto tall ladders. Shorter ladders, scaffolding, or scissor lifts can easily be used in combination with extension poles to give the painter a more stabilized platform to work on. Reference OSHA for specific guidelines on how to use ladders based on their safety requirements.

How to paint high exterior walls without a ladder?

Painting exterior walls present some additional challenges due to permanent fixtures that you need to work around, such as landscaping, utilities, and other structures. Moving around these permanent structures will add significant time to your project, so make sure you build in extra hours to your quote to consider this.

Taking the time to properly set up scaffolding or positioning a scissor lift on a flat surface, will help to prevent safety issues arising as the painter is on the scaffolding or scissor lift.

How do painters paint really high ceilings?

Painting really high ceilings in commercial spaces requires a lot of prep time to ensure the workers' safety. Preparation is key to a high quality paint job on high ceilings. Setting up scaffolding or a scissor lift and combining it with an extension pole or pole gun extension, can make quick work of really high ceilings.

How to paint out of reach areas?

When painting out-of-reach areas on commercial projects, professional painters should prioritize efficiency and safety by utilizing the right tools and equipment. Telescoping extension poles paired with high-quality roller frames or brush adapters allow for smooth coverage on elevated walls or ceilings without the need for constant repositioning. For more complex or expansive jobs, aerial lifts, scaffolding, or boom lifts provide stable access to high surfaces, especially when working on industrial buildings or multi-story structures. Spray rigs with adjustable spray tips and long hoses are ideal for large-scale coverage, minimizing overspray and downtime. Regardless of the method, always ensure equipment is compliant with OSHA standards and that all crew members are trained in fall protection and lift operation for maximum jobsite safety.

For more information about painting in commercial spaces, call a sales representative at Trail Sprayer & Service 330-720-2966.