Creating a mural is a labor of love—hours spent sketching, scaling, painting, and bringing a vision to life on a giant canvas for the world to see. As a muralist based in Columbus, Ohio, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to the city’s evolving visual story. But the work doesn’t stop when the paint dries. One of the most overlooked parts of public art is maintenance. A mural is more than just a painting—it’s a commitment to the community. And like any commitment, it requires ongoing care.
Whether you’re a fellow artist, a building owner, or a community group supporting local art, understanding proper mural maintenance helps preserve these vibrant stories for years to come.
1. Start with Good Prep Work
Good maintenance starts before the first brushstroke. Using high-quality, UV-resistant paint and proper wall preparation can significantly extend a mural’s life. I always prime my surfaces thoroughly and use exterior-grade paints that are built to handle Ohio’s unpredictable weather—snow in April, sun in November, and everything in between.
2. Apply a Protective Coating
Once the mural is complete, applying a protective clear coat is crucial. I recommend a UV-protectant varnish or a graffiti-resistant coating, depending on the mural’s location. In busy urban areas like downtown Columbus, this extra step can be a lifesaver. It’s like armor for your artwork, shielding it from sun damage, pollution, and tagging.
3. Regular Cleaning
Just like any surface exposed to the elements, murals gather dirt, dust, and grime. A gentle wash once or twice a year using soft brushes and non-abrasive soap helps keep colors vibrant and details visible. If you have used a protective coating you also can power wash a mural!
4. Inspect and Touch Up
Weather, sunlight, and time will eventually wear down even the best paint job. I encourage property owners to inspect murals annually. Look for signs of cracking, fading, or peeling. When I work on community pieces in Columbus neighborhoods like Franklinton or the Short North, I make sure to schedule touch-ups every couple of years. A fresh coat in key areas can breathe new life into an older mural.
5. Community Stewardship
One of the best parts of being a local artist is seeing how murals become landmarks and gathering points. Community involvement is essential—not just during the painting process but afterward too. Local businesses and residents can act as caretakers, reporting damage or deterioration. Even something as simple as planting shrubs to redirect foot traffic can protect a mural’s base from wear and tear.
6. Document Your Work
Keep good records of paint colors, materials used, and the original design. If touch-ups or restoration are needed years down the line, having this info will make the job smoother for you—or for the next muralist who picks up the brush.
Mural maintenance may not be glamorous, but it’s a key part of the creative process. By caring for these public pieces, we show respect for the stories they tell and the communities they serve.
Let’s keep the art alive—one wall at a time.