Red Flags for Murals: What Can Get in the Way of a Successful Project?
Planning a mural is exciting, but it’s not always as simple as showing up with paint and getting to work. There are a number of real-world challenges (or “red flags”) that muralists need to consider before even laying down the first brush stroke. Some of these issues can delay a project, add costs, or in worst-case scenarios, make the mural impossible to complete as planned. Most of these red flags tie back to a single, common factor: access.
Let’s break down the most common mural red flags — from street-level obstacles to logistical headaches — so you know what to look for and prepare for.
Access: The #1 Red Flag
Access is almost always the biggest challenge in mural work. If you can’t physically get to the wall safely and effectively, you can’t paint the mural.
Street & Parking Access
- Is there legal street parking for a boom lift or SkyJack?
- Are there time restrictions for parking (rush hour, limited hours)?
- Is parking allowed for the entire day or just certain time slots?
- No parking zones often mean you’ll need to pay for a police officer to oversee your work if you need to block a lane of traffic (like hiring a security guard at the liquor store, but for your mural).
Power Lines & Overhead Obstructions
- Power lines are a common obstacle on exteriors.
- Technically, you should request hydro to come and cover them with bright orange safety sleeves to allow safe access with lifts or scaffolding.
- Trees, signage, or awnings can also prevent access or complicate lift setup.
Limited Site Access
- Condos or office interiors can have restricted access:
- Can a lift fit in the building?
- Will it fit on the elevator?
- Will the floor support the weight?
- Some interior spaces don’t allow equipment due to floor load restrictions.
Working Hours & Business Operations
- Are people working in the space during the day?
- Is it an office, a retail store, or a restaurant that needs to stay operational?
- Noise, dust, and the need for unobstructed access can affect the mural schedule.
Equipment Limitations
Projection Challenges
- Not enough space for a projector (especially in tight interior spaces).
- No available power source for a projector.
- In exterior situations, a small generator can run a projector — but it must be a quality generator with a breaker or inverter that can handle the power draw.
Workarounds for Projection Issues
- Using a grid system for layout if projection isn’t feasible.
- Freestyling the design or using stencils where possible.
Additional Red Flags & Considerations
Surface Condition
- Poor wall condition (crumbling brick, flaking paint, heavy staining).
- Water damage or leaching (especially on older brick walls).
- Presence of graffiti that needs to be cleaned or primed over.
Weather & Environment
- Outdoor murals require decent weather windows.
- High winds can make lift work dangerous.
- Extreme heat or cold affects paint performance.
Building Restrictions & Permits
- Does the building require special permits for exterior work?
- Are there heritage designations or restrictions on altering the facade?
Safety & Liability
- Will the mural require working at extreme heights?
- Are there fall hazards?
- Will pedestrian traffic need to be re-routed?
Logistical Challenges
- How far is the water source for cleaning brushes, etc.?
- Is there secure overnight storage for equipment and materials?
- Is the mural location subject to vandalism or theft risk?
Final Thoughts
Murals are a beautiful addition to any space, but they live in the real world — with all its quirks, rules, and challenges.
Being aware of these red flags ahead of time helps avoid surprises and ensures your mural project runs smoothly.
Whether it’s navigating downtown street restrictions, dodging power lines, or working around limited site access, a skilled muralist can often come up with creative solutions. But identifying these potential issues early is always key to a successful project.
Ready to Start a Mural Project?
Got a wall in mind? Contact us here and we’ll help you navigate the challenges and bring your vision to life.
