Project Description

This commercial repaint was all about first impressions—specifically, making a better one. Sharper Impressions Columbus was hired to help give a stand-alone Tim Hortons location in Columbus, OH a full exterior transformation as part of a larger remodel. The building, approximately 3,000 square feet, had seen better days. With its original beige tones and red accents, it looked tired and didn’t quite reflect the clean, modern feel the brand was aiming for.

We were brought in for a full exterior repaint, complete with extensive prep work, masking, and project coordination to keep everything running smoothly during open hours. This was a 4-day job, carefully timed and executed to avoid disrupting business—because no one wants to block the coffee line during the morning rush. While pricing varies based on project needs, we offer free estimates for all our commercial jobs, including complex storefronts like this one.

Background/Story:

Tim Hortons was in the middle of revamping this location to better align with its evolving brand image. The old color palette—faded beige with muted red trim—was warm, but it looked outdated. The business owner knew it was time for a bold change but didn’t want anything that felt too stark or sterile.

They came to us with a vision: cleaner, crisper, and more modern. But execution was key. This wasn’t just about slapping on a few new colors—it was about making sure every edge was perfect, every line sharp, and every customer still able to get their morning coffee without seeing a mess of ladders and drop cloths.

Throughout the project, communication was constant. From the first consultation to the final touch-up, we coordinated closely with the store’s manager to ensure our work didn’t interfere with operations. Regulars at the drive-thru even shouted out compliments—between jokes like “You missed a spot!” We’ll take both.

Scope of Services

• Surface Preparation: Power washed the entire exterior to remove dirt, dust, and loose paint. Scraped any failing areas and lightly sanded surfaces to promote proper adhesion of the new coating system.
• Moisture & Substrate Check: Ensured that all surfaces were dry and structurally sound before painting, especially around window frames, trim, and drive-thru fixtures.
• Masking & Protection: Carefully masked off lighting, signage, drive-thru equipment, windows, and door hardware to protect from overspray and maintain crisp, clean edges.
• Color Consultation & Paint Sampling: Worked with the client to test and confirm color combinations using Sherwin-Williams samples before committing to the new design.
• Primer Application: Spot-primed any exposed or repaired areas to ensure consistent coverage and long-lasting adhesion across mixed substrates.
• Paint Application: Applied two coats of commercial-grade Sherwin-Williams exterior paint using a combination of sprayers and precision hand brushing to achieve full coverage and sharp contrast.
• Detailing & Touch-Ups: After removing all masking, conducted a full edge inspection and performed fine detailing for a polished, professional result.
• Traffic Management & Safety: Used cones, caution tape, and barriers to safely redirect foot and vehicle traffic during active work zones.

Results:

The results spoke for themselves before we even packed up the gear. The old beige building had transformed into a bold, modern storefront that now confidently reflects Tim Hortons’ brand presence. The bright white base adds freshness and makes the building stand out from the street, while the black accents frame key features like signage, entryways, and windows.

The feedback was instant and organic. Customers at the drive-thru commented on the cleaner, sharper look. Some even rolled down their windows mid-order to say, “It looks amazing!”—a small but meaningful affirmation that the refresh was working exactly as intended.

From the business owner’s perspective, the process was smooth and the results aligned perfectly with their goal of drawing in more traffic and reinforcing a polished, trustworthy image. And for Sharper Impressions Columbus, it was a reminder of how powerful a good paint job can be—especially when it’s tied to something as visible and beloved as your neighborhood coffee stop.

Project Details

Location: Columbus, OH

Services Provided: 

Scope: Color Consultation & Paint Sampling, Exterior Commercial Painting, Moisture & Substrate Check, Priming, Surface Preparation

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