· Commercial Painting · 3 min read
Painting Multi-Unit Properties: Best Practices for Apartments & Dorms
Repainting multi-unit properties like dorms, apartments, and hotels requires strategic planning to minimize disruptions and maximize durability. Learn the best practices for a smooth, efficient painting project.
Overview
Painting multi-unit properties such as dorms, student housing, apartments, and hotels is a large-scale project that requires careful coordination, durable materials, and minimal disruptions to tenants and guests. Whether you’re planning routine maintenance or a full-scale repaint, here’s everything you need to consider.
How Often Should Multi-Unit Properties Be Repainted?
The frequency of repainting depends on occupancy levels, wear and tear, and property type. Here are general guidelines:
Dorms & Student Housing
Every 3-5 years, as frequent tenant turnover leads to scuffs, stains, and general wear.
Apartment Buildings
Every 5-7 years, with high-traffic areas (hallways, lobbies) needing touch-ups more often.
Hotels & Hospitality
Every 4-6 years, as guest rooms and common areas experience frequent use.
Senior Living & Assisted Living Facilities
Every 5-8 years, with a focus on low-VOC, non-toxic paints to maintain indoor air quality.
Factors like branding updates, property age, and local climate may also influence repainting frequency.
Choosing the Best Paint for Multi-Unit Properties
Selecting the right paint type is crucial for longevity, maintenance, and tenant satisfaction. Here are the top options:
Acrylic Latex Paint
Ideal for most interior surfaces—quick-drying, easy to clean, and low odor.
Epoxy-Based Paint
Best for high-traffic areas like hallways, elevators, and stairwells—extremely durable and resistant to stains.
Washable, Scuff-Resistant Paint
Essential for spaces that need frequent cleaning, such as dorm rooms and hotel lobbies.
Low-VOC or Zero-VOC Paints
Perfect for tenant-occupied spaces, reducing odors and improving indoor air quality.
The right paint should balance aesthetics, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Best Color Schemes for Multi-Unit Properties
The right color choices enhance tenant experience, attract new residents, and reflect the brand.
Neutral Colors (Gray, Beige, Soft White)
Timeless and professional—great for apartments and hotels.
Blues & Greens
Promote calmness and relaxation—ideal for dorm rooms and hospitality spaces.
Darker Tones (Charcoal, Deep Navy)
Add sophistication but should be used selectively in accent walls or common areas.
Vibrant Accent Walls
A touch of color can make lobbies, fitness centers, or study areas feel more inviting.
For student housing or branded hotels, incorporating school colors or brand palettes is a great way to personalize the space.
Minimizing Disruptions During a Multi-Unit Painting Project
Painting occupied buildings requires careful coordination to avoid tenant inconvenience. Here’s how to minimize disruptions:
Plan Work in Phases
Break the project into manageable sections, such as floor-by-floor or wing-by-wing.
Schedule During Low-Occupancy Periods
For dorms and student housing, paint during summer breaks; for hotels, target off-peak seasons.
Use Fast-Drying, Low-Odor Paint
Ensures minimal downtime and a better experience for tenants and guests.
Provide Advance Notice to Residents
Post schedules and send notifications to keep occupants informed.
A well-planned approach prevents tenant complaints and ensures a smooth project.
Cost Considerations for Painting Multi-Unit Buildings
Pricing varies based on square footage, surface prep, labor, and paint quality. General estimates:
Dorm Rooms & Small Apartments
$500 - $1,500 per unit
Common Areas (Hallways, Lobbies, Fitness Centers)
$2,000 - $10,000, depending on square footage.
Large Apartment Buildings & Hotels
$15,000 - $50,000+ for a full repaint, depending on property size and complexity.
Factors affecting cost:
- Ceiling Heights & Surface Prep: Extra costs for textured walls, high ceilings, and needed repairs.
- Branding Considerations: Custom color schemes or corporate-approved paints may increase expenses.
- Material Costs: High-end finishes or anti-microbial paints for medical facilities will raise the budget.
Requesting detailed estimates from multiple painting contractors helps ensure competitive pricing.
Ensuring a Long-Lasting Paint Job
A well-executed painting project should last for years with minimal maintenance. Key factors:
Thorough Surface Prep
Cleaning, patching, and priming surfaces before painting extends the lifespan of the job.
Choosing the Right Finish
Satin or semi-gloss for easy cleaning; matte for a modern, low-glare look.
Applying Two Coats When Needed
Ensures better coverage and longer-lasting results.
Regular Maintenance & Touch-Ups
Plan for periodic inspections and small touch-ups to maintain a fresh look.
Investing in high-quality materials and professional painting services reduces long-term costs.
Conclusion
Painting a multi-unit property—whether it’s a dorm, apartment building, or hotel—requires careful planning, high-quality materials, and minimal tenant disruption. With the right color choices, durable paints, and professional execution, you can enhance tenant satisfaction, property value, and long-term maintenance savings.
If you’re planning an upcoming repaint, consulting with experienced commercial painters ensures a smooth, efficient, and high-quality result.
