The Problem of Overspray

Part of completing a safe, successful project is making sure the job site is setup properly. PPC has strict safety and project setup procedures, in which, we never cut corners. This setup includes protection against a common mistake known as overspray. Overspray happens to the best contractors, but it can be a catastrophic mistake.

What is Overspray?

Overspray occurs when the project area isn’t contained well enough and paint spray spreads to surrounding objects or buildings. Aside from poor containment of the area, overspray can be caused by the elements in certain situations like an extremely windy day. Wind gusts can blow paint spray out of the area and onto surrounding property.

For example, in West Texas, a contractor was having a water tower coated, and the painter ended up overspraying on 400 cars with epoxy and urethane in the school’s colors (article source).

Problems with Overspray

Photo courtesy of: autoluxdetailing.com

The main problem with overspray exists in the ruining of other people’s property. When overspray occurs, it can end up adding an unwanted paint job to cars and buildings in the area. The contractors then have to pay for the damage repair or take it out of their insurance policy. Most insurance policies require a deductible be paid for such a disaster. Deductibles in overspray situations can range from $250 to $2,000 per vehicle.

How Penington Avoids Overspray Issues

The best way to fix an overspray issue is to prevent them from being an issue in the first place. Proper containment of an area is vital to a successful project. Make sure you account for all types of weather when preparing an area. If you are painting at a higher altitude than ground level, there’s a high chance a breeze is going to be more powerful than on the ground. Make sure your coverings are secured down so the wind doesn’t affect them and always pay attention to your surroundings. Some overspray accidents occur simply after a painter didn’t know his plastic protection had come loose halfway through their shift.

Overall, the main point is that Penington’s project areas are well-prepared, well-organized, and well-cared for, so overspray?…more like NOverspray.

To read more about overspray effects and fixes, read: http://www.coatingspromag.com/articles/other/2013/10/liability