Originally published by All From 1 Supply and reproduced here with permission. Customer quotes are presented from the original case study.

Overview

This case study highlights how Madison Squares Self Storage, a local operator in Southern California, restored the appearance of its doors using Chem-Bake, achieving long-term durability and a finish comparable to original factory paint - with results still performing more than a decade later.

Curb Appeal Matters in Self Storage

In self-storage, appearance plays an important role in how customers evaluate a facility. Roll-up doors make up the majority of what customers come in contact with when they visit a property, and faded or chalky doors can make an otherwise well-maintained facility appear older or poorly maintained. Clean, consistent doors help reinforce a sense of quality, professionalism, and safety - factors that strongly influence a customer’s confidence when choosing where to store their belongings.

The Challenge

Like many facilities, this operator was facing:

  • Faded, oxidized roll-up doors
  • Loss of color and gloss due to sun exposure
  • A property appearance that felt older than it was
  • Concern about investing in a coating that would not last

Prior to Chem-Bake, the facility tested alternative restoration products but found the finish did not meet expectations.

"Originally, we looked at Everbright. We tested a small section of one of our doors, and after it dried, I was not satisfied with the way the door looked. It did not seem to bring the luster out as I had hoped."

- Jason Magill, Madison Squares Self Storage

The goal was not simply repainting - it was restoring the doors to a factory-like appearance while avoiding frequent rework.

The Solution: Chem-Bake

Chem-Bake is designed specifically for metal roll-up doors and self-storage environments, combining:

  • Surface restoration and color in a single system
  • UV resistance to reduce fading and chalking
  • Long-lasting durability that outlives ordinary coatings
  • A smooth, uniform finish designed to replicate factory appearance

The product allows facilities to refresh aging doors without complete replacement, reducing capital expense while improving property presentation.

The Results

After completion, the visual transformation was immediate.

"After the project was completed on one of our facilities it was night and day. Our doors went from a very light blue chalky look back to looking like original factory painting. We were so impressed."

- Jason Magill, Madison Squares Self Storage

Roll-up door painted with Chem-Bake 11 years ago
This door was painted with Chem-Bake 11 years ago.

Key Outcomes

  • Restored gloss and color depth
  • Uniform, factory-like finish
  • Improved overall facility appearance
  • Long-term durability with minimal maintenance

Most importantly, the performance proved itself over time.

"Our project was done 11 years ago and it still looks as good as it did the day it was applied."

- Jason Magill, Madison Squares Self Storage

Side-by-side comparison of factory-finished replacement door and Chem-Bake refinished door
On the left is a factory-finished replacement door. On the right, a door that had been refinished with Chem-Bake 11 years earlier. While the door on the right has a few dents and dings from years of service, the finish is comparable to the newer door even after 11 years.

Most paints look good the day they are applied, but how they hold up year after year is what really counts. For facility operators, longevity translates directly into reduced lifecycle cost and fewer repainting cycles.

Off-the-shelf touch-up paint faded against surrounding Chem-Bake finish
This door had been damaged and touched up with an off-the-shelf architectural paint. Despite being applied after the Chem-Bake, the touch-up paint was heavily oxidized and chalky, while the Chem-Bake surrounding it retained its color and shine.

Business Impact: Why Appearance Matters

In self-storage, perception drives value. Roll-up doors represent one of the largest visual surfaces on a property.

"It’s one of the first items current customers and new customers see when visiting a facility."

- Jason Magill, Madison Squares Self Storage

When doors appear faded or chalky:

  • Facilities can feel older or poorly maintained
  • Customers subconsciously associate appearance with quality
  • Curb appeal suffers compared to competing properties

Restoring doors helps facilities:

  • Maintain a premium appearance
  • Stand out in competitive markets
  • Reinforce professionalism and care

Customer Recommendation

"I would recommend Chem-Bake (Endura-Clad Coatings) to any facility who is looking to bring the luster back to their doors and to stand out from others."

- Jason Magill, Madison Squares Self Storage

About Chem-Bake

Chem-Bake is a restorative coating system used to refinish self-storage roll-up doors and other metal surfaces where color retention, durability, and a factory-like appearance are important. For product details, technical documents, and related resources, see the corresponding product and downloads pages on Endura-Clad Coatings.