Anti-graffiti coatings are great for any business owner, whether you’re in a neighborhood susceptible to vandalism, or you’re cleaning up a mess a very angry ex-employee made. These coatings are specifically for exterior vertical surfaces and make it possible to remove troublesome tagging with relative ease (and quickly). By investing in anti-graffiti coatings, you can save time, money, and energy in cleaning up graffiti from your storefront’s doors.
The fact is, the longer you leave graffiti on display, the more inclined other taggers will be to embellish their work or tag in other locations. Not to mention it’s an unsightly addition to your business’ appearance. But not all anti-graffiti coatings are created equal, or even work the same way, so choose the one for your building exterior, garage door or storefront door with care.
It is crucial to select an anti-graffiti coating that best suits your building’s doors and exterior maintenance. Different coatings may have varying levels of protection and durability. The right coating can save you time and money in the long run, as it will require less frequent maintenance and cleaning. The right anti-graffiti coating is a welcome addition for any business owner looking to protect their storefront’s entryways.
Sacrificial vs Non-Sacrificial Coatings for Commercial Facilities
There are many different types of anti-graffiti products, with different functions and of differing quality. While all anti-graffiti coatings are designed to prevent paint from adhering to a surface, they differ in the way they do it. Sacrificial coatings create a clear polymer, acrylic or wax layer that allows you to gently pressure wash the graffiti away, but it also takes away the coating. Sacrificial products may survive a couple of cleanings, but they will need to be reapplied.
Non-Sacrificial coatings are permanent products meant to be applied only once. They resist graffiti by preventing bonding to the surface of the coating, so that it’s easily broken down and removed. Remember that some paints are oil-based as well as water based, so choose one that resists all types of paint or markers. These permanent coatings cost more – sometimes a lot more – but they are a one-time cost, while sacrificial coatings are an ongoing cost.
Sacrificial Coatings Require Ongoing Maintenance but Are Cheaper Up Front
When choosing between coatings for commercial entryways, there are a few things to consider. Sacrificial coatings may be more cost-effective in the short-term but require ongoing maintenance. They are a good option for facilities that experience occasional tagging or vandalism. Non-sacrificial coatings, while more expensive upfront, offer long-term protection with no maintenance. They are ideal for facilities located in high-risk areas or that experience frequent tagging.
It is also important to consider the type of paint or markers that are commonly used for graffiti in your area. Some coatings are only effective against water-based paints, others can resist oil-based paints as well. Ensure that you choose a coating that can protect against all types of graffiti. Your options may vary based on if you’re opting for sacrificial or non-sacrificial coatings.
Things to Think About when Graffiti-Proofing Your Business’ Doors and Windows
Be advised that some products can leave a milky residue that looks like a film. This is especially true with some types of sacrificial anti-graffiti coatings that are wax-based. You also need to know how these products work on different surfaces, such as painted, unfinished, wood and metal, concrete or any other. Be sure to talk to a professional to ensure that the product will work on your unique entryway. Not every commercial entryway uses the same materials.
As far as cost, a permanent coating may be the better option if your graffiti issue is recurring – it’s expensive in the short term, but it’s a good investment if you’ve got repeat taggers running around your area. Shore up your storefront and its doors and windows well enough, and eventually you’ll tire the vandals out – they’ll look for easier targets. There are plenty of commercial entryways for them to work in that haven’t added coating yet.
But if you know your graffiti problems are a one-time thing, or few and far between, a sacrificial coating might be a cheaper way to go. Because some paints don’t only stain but damage surfaces, you shouldn’t take your chances just because you think you’re not susceptible to graffiti. Anti-graffiti coatings are definitely less expensive than replacing your business’ entry doors because of one episode of bad luck. This is all a lot to take in but there are plenty of good reasons to apply anti graffiti coatings to your storefront doors.
Anti Graffiti Coatings Are Cheaper than Door Repairs
Anti-graffiti coatings offer substantial cost savings for businesses with storefront doors. Graffiti removal can be a time-consuming and costly endeavor. They can require specialized cleaning services and expensive chemicals. Without proper protection, the need for frequent graffiti removal can add up over time. Anti-graffiti commercial door coatings significantly streamline this process. They make graffiti on storefront doorways easier to clean, reducing the need for expensive cleaning services.
Any Graffiti Applied Is Easier and Cheaper to Clean
Graffiti on storefront doors can be a headache to deal with, especially when it seems to reappear frequently. Anti-graffiti coatings simplify the cleanup process considerably. These coatings create a smooth, non-porous surface that allows graffiti to be wiped off. You can use common cleaning methods like power washing or specialized graffiti removers. No specialty cleaners required. The graffiti is less likely to penetrate the coating and bond with the underlying surface. Removal is quicker and much less abrasive. This efficiency ensures that your storefront doors can be restored to their pristine condition. An easy cleaning that won’t leave behind any unsightly marks.
Anti Graffiti Coatings Can Extend a Door’s Lifespan
Exterior surfaces, including storefront doors, are worn down by a range of environmental factors. UV rays, pollution, harsh weather conditions, and even natural aging can all take a toll on the appearance and integrity of doors. Anti-graffiti coatings act as a protective shield, safeguarding doors from these elements.
Some Areas Have Regulations on Graffiti Cleaning
In some regions, local regulations have time frames for businesses to remove graffiti from their properties. Failure to do so can result in fines or other penalties. Anti-graffiti coatings help businesses remain compliant with these regulations. Their ease of cleaning and graffiti resistance ensure that graffiti can be removed quickly. You’ll reduce the risk of legal consequences and keep your storefront’s entryway clean.
For best results, consult an expert before you choose an anti-graffiti product. SACS specializes in all things commercial doors, gates, windows and hardware, and that includes methods on how to protect them. If you’re curious about anti-graffiti coatings for your commercial or industrial exterior, give us a call; we’re happy to help.