Over the years, the painting industry has evolved significantly, transitioning from traditional methods to incorporate modern, state-of-the-art techniques that ensure precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal. This evolution is something you should find when you perform an online search for, ‘residential painting contractors near me.’
In this blog, we will take a deep dive into the sphere of residential painting, exploring the intersection of excellent craftsmanship and technological innovation. We’ll focus on a residential painting contractor who is at the forefront of these transformations, embracing cutting-edge trends and innovations to provide exceptional services.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to refresh your living spaces or a professional painter wanting to stay updated on industry trends, this comprehensive guide will provide insights into the ever-evolving world of residential painting. But first, let’s take a look at the history of the painting industry.
A brief history of paint
The history of the paint and coatings industry is as vibrant as the colors it produces. This sector’s history, marked by innovation, adaptation, and growth, stretches back to the dawn of the Industrial Revolution.
- Beginnings: The first organized paint production in the United States can be traced back to 1700, with the establishment of the initial paint mill. The real formation of the industry, however, took place during the Industrial Revolution, when it became an integral part of the rapidly evolving economy.
- Uses: During this transformative period, paints and coatings were adopted widely, serving more than just aesthetic purposes. They were used extensively to safeguard and prolong the lifespan of the increasing volume of manufactured goods.
- Ready mixed paints: A significant turning point arrived in the late 19th century, with the patenting of the first “ready mixed” paints in 1867. These premixed products offered unparalleled convenience and efficiency, revolutionizing the industry.
- Factory expansion: The advent of mechanization in the mid-1880s led to the spread of paint factories across the nation. The high cost of transporting prepared paint initially meant small manufacturers dominated the landscape. However, as transportation infrastructure improved, the industry began a gradual shift towards larger manufacturers.
- Addressing health and environmental concerns: An important part of the paint industry’s history has been its commitment to tackling health and environmental concerns. This commitment is most evident in the gradual phasing out of lead pigments. The industry recognized potential health risks and began replacing lead pigments with safer alternatives even before World War II. By the 1950s, standards were implemented to limit the use of these hazardous pigments, culminating in a complete ban on lead in consumer paint by 1978.
Today, the paints and coatings industry is more relevant than ever, finding applications in diverse fields such as construction, automotive, marine, and aerospace. Even though the use of paints and coatings may go unnoticed by the average consumer, their significance is undeniably profound.
Ongoing Trends and Innovations in Residential Painting Services
Residential painting services, like any other industry, have had their fair share of emerging trends that continually shape and redefine the landscape. You should be aware that some of these trends and innovations may be present in your local contractors should you perform a search for ‘residential painting contractors near me.’ These innovations include:
1. Air-purifying paints for cleaner, fresher air
One of the most significant developments is the creation of air-purifying paints. These innovative products have the remarkable capability to remove unwanted odors and harmful toxins such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and CO2 from the air, thereby purifying the atmosphere within your home.
This not only ensures you breathe cleaner, fresher air but also minimizes potential health hazards associated with indoor air pollution. Leading paint manufacturers like Sherwin-Williams have already rolled out such air-purifying paints, setting a new standard for indoor air quality.
2. VOC-free paints for a healthier living environment
The trend towards healthier living spaces doesn’t end there. Another significant advancement in paint technology has been the development of VOC-free paints. Many paint brands have addressed the concern of VOC by offering low or no-VOC paints, thus reducing the risk and paving the way for healthier homes.
3. Antibacterial and antimicrobial paints as a proactive defense against germs
In an era marked by heightened awareness about hygiene due to the global pandemic, antibacterial and antimicrobial paints have risen in popularity. These paints are designed to kill bacteria and viruses on contact, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic, germ-prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Virtual fitting rooms to redefine the customer experience
This technology, powered by virtual and augmented reality, allows customers to virtually try products and painting services in their homes, revolutionizing the traditional shopping experience.
Customers can now visualize how a new shade of paint would transform their space without making a physical commitment. This approach minimizes the guesswork and potential dissatisfaction, increasing customer convenience and significantly enhancing the buying experience.
5. Advanced coating technologies that go beyond the surface
Modern science and technology have given birth to advanced coatings that go the extra mile, offering added functionalities.
A prime example of this is the development of nano coatings. These specially engineered paints are designed to resist dirt, corrosion, graffiti, and general wear and tear, thereby improving longevity and reducing maintenance costs. They provide superior protection, ensuring the vibrancy and durability of surfaces for long periods.
In the same vein, hydrophobic coatings have gained traction in the industry. These water-repelling paints are particularly beneficial for safeguarding moisture-sensitive components and surfaces. By creating a barrier that water cannot penetrate, they protect surfaces from potential water damage and extend their lifespan.
6. Self-cleaning paint
One of the most exciting innovations in paint technology is self-cleaning paint. Produced using advanced nanotechnology, this innovative paint maintains its original color over time and significantly reduces surface friction. This reduction in friction allows dust particles and water droplets to slide off the surface without leaving any stains. Imagine a world where rain showers clean your house’s exterior rather than dirtying it – that’s the magic of self-cleaning paint!
7. Self-healing paint wraps
These wraps, which are simple to apply, have the remarkable ability to repair themselves, significantly reducing maintenance costs. When heat is applied, they return to their original form, seamlessly masking any damages or scratches. It’s the equivalent of having a continuously self-repairing wall, saving you time and hassle in wall maintenance.
8. Faster Drying Paint
Impatiently waiting for paint to dry can be a thing of the past with the advent of faster-drying paints. These specially-formulated paints dry quickly upon application, preventing accidental smudges or touches that can ruin a freshly painted surface. This innovation significantly speeds up painting projects and makes them far more manageable, especially for those of us with busy schedules.
9. One-Coat Paint
Finally, we delve into the game-changing one-coat paints. These unique blends of paint and primer allow for a single, smooth application, saving time, resources, and effort. No more multiple coatings and long hours of labor.
These innovative advancements in paint technology are something that you should look for when performing an online search for ‘residential painting contractors near me.’ In the next section, we will look at how you can choose forward-thinking contractors that are adopting these advances in painting.
Contact us here if you would like to find the best painting contractor for your residential or commercial needs.
How To Choose Forward-Thinking Local Painting Contractors
Choosing the best painting contractor from a list of local painting contractors is no longer just about finding someone who can skillfully apply a coat of paint. With the rapidly evolving painting industry, it is crucial to choose a contractor who stays abreast of the latest trends and innovations, bringing forward-thinking strategies to your project.
If you are in Wichita, Kansas, and are looking for ‘residential painting contractors near me,’ you might want to choose Koehn Painting, as we are one of the region’s best painting contractors who constantly strive to incorporate innovative solutions for our clients.
Below are some criteria to follow when performing an online search for ‘innovative residential painting contractors near me:
- Identify contractors who keep up with industry trends: Look for painting contractors who are well-informed about the latest trends, from color choices and application techniques to eco-friendly materials. Contractors who showcase their knowledge on their website, social media, or in person can demonstrate that they stay updated with the industry’s evolving landscape. At Koehn Painting, for instance, we consistently share industry insights and trends on our blog, ensuring clients are well informed about the latest in painting.
- Assess their use of technology: A modern painting contractor should leverage technology to improve service quality and customer experience. This can range from using high-tech equipment for paint application to offering online consultations or virtual color visualizations. At Koehn Painting, we utilize various technologies to enhance the precision of our residential painting services and streamline the customer consultation process.
- Check their sustainability practices: With the growing emphasis on eco-friendliness, your exterior painting contractor should prioritize sustainable practices. Ask them about their use of low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, their waste disposal methods, and any other eco-friendly initiatives they have incorporated into their business. Koehn Painting is committed to sustainability, and as a result, we prioritize using eco-friendly materials and adopt responsible waste management practices.
- Review their past work: Checking a contractor’s portfolio can give you insights into their ability to handle diverse projects and adapt to different styles. Look for variety in their work, which shows their adaptability and openness to new trends. At Koehn, our portfolio and customer reviews exhibit an impressive range of projects, from traditional home interiors to modern commercial spaces, reflecting our versatility and ability to keep up with design trends.
Residential Painting Contractors Near Me: The Future Market Outlook
As you perform your search for ‘residential painting contractors near me,’ you should keep in mind future trends that may impact your painting project. For instance, there will be a growing need for sustainability when choosing paint products. As a result, you can expect to see further development and widespread use of environmentally-friendly paints and materials.
Also, you can expect more on the development and use of “smart” paints—those that have additional functionalities beyond just aesthetics. This can include paints that help regulate temperature, resist bacteria and mold, absorb pollutants, or even change color based on lighting or temperature.
These future trends highlight the ongoing evolution of the painting industry and the growing importance of innovation, sustainability, and technology within this sector. As we look forward to these developments, it will be exciting to see how residential painting contractors such as Koehn adapt and contribute to these transformative changes.
If you want to learn more about Koehn and our painting services, feel free to get a quote from us.
