Paint and surface finishes are more than just decoration — in heritage buildings, they are protective barriers against weather and environmental damage, and vital to preserving the building’s original character. Over time, coatings degrade due to UV exposure, moisture, pollution, and incompatible repainting systems.

We deliver true heritage restoration, not just a repaint, by respecting the original surface materials, colour schemes, and application techniques, while upgrading durability with modern formulations.

Initial Investigation & Analysis

• Paint Sampling & Layer Analysis – Carefully removing micro-samples to identify original colours, pigments, and binders.
• Substrate Assessment – Determining the base material (stone, brick, render, timber, metal) and its current condition.
• Moisture & Salt Testing – Identifying issues like rising damp or salt efflorescence that may cause coating failure.

Surface Preparation

1. Gentle Paint Removal – Using heritage-approved methods such as steam stripping, chemical poultices, or low-pressure micro-abrasion to avoid damaging substrates.
2. Repair of Substrate – Filling cracks, repointing joints, and patching render before coating.
3. Cleaning – Removing biological growths, soot, or pollution deposits without etching the surface.

Colour & Finish Matching

• Historic Colour Matching – Replicating original hues using heritage colour charts and archival references.
• Finish Recreation – Achieving correct sheen levels — from limewash matte to enamel gloss — to match the original appearance.
• Blending Repairs – Integrating touch-ups seamlessly so new and old surfaces appear unified.

Application Systems

• Breathable Coatings – Using mineral-based paints, limewashes, or silicate paints that allow trapped moisture to escape.
• Protective Undercoats – Primers tailored to each substrate to maximise adhesion and protection.
• Layered Application – Building up coats for depth, richness, and long-term resistance.
• Specialist Metal Coatings – For wrought iron, steel, or bronze features, including rust-inhibiting primers and UV-stable topcoats.

Specialist Restoration Techniques

• Limewash & Casein Paints – For masonry that requires vapour permeability.
• Faux Finishes & Decorative Painting – Restoring marbling, woodgraining, and gilding to original patterns.
• Murals & Signwriting – Conservation or recreation of painted heritage signage.

Protection & Maintenance

• UV & Weather Protection – Modern additives that extend life without altering colour tone.
• Anti-Graffiti Coatings – Clear sacrificial layers that protect heritage surfaces from vandalism.
• Maintenance Plans – Scheduled inspections and touch-ups to avoid full recoating cycles.

Compliance & Documentation

• All works completed in accordance with Heritage Council guidelines and conservation best practice.
• Colour schedules, methodology statements, and photographic before/after documentation provided for council or heritage trust approvals.

Benefits of Heritage Paint & Surface Restoration

• Preserves Historical Authenticity – Colours and finishes remain true to the building’s original era.
• Extends Service Life – High-performance coatings prevent water penetration and UV breakdown.
• Protects the Building Fabric – Prevents deterioration of stone, brick, render, timber, and metal elements.
• Improves Visual Impact – Enhances kerb appeal while maintaining authenticity.

Why Choose Atomic Projects

• Material Science Expertise – Knowledge of paint chemistry and substrate interaction.
• Skilled Applicators – Tradespeople trained in heritage-specific techniques.
• Colour History Access – Partnerships with heritage colour libraries and archives.
• Integrated Approach – Coordinating with façade, roofing, and structural restoration for complete outcomes.

With our process, the building doesn’t just look freshly painted — it looks exactly as it did in its prime, with every detail preserved and protected for future generations.

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If you’re ready to get started, we're ready to help.

Take the next step and let’s build something that lasts.

📞 Call Us: 0410 515 509

✉️ Email Us: hello@atomicprojects.com.au

— Ben Tran, General Manager, Atomic Projects

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