Theming refurbishment in the off season: how to plan it

By October 20, 2026October 22nd, 2026No Comments

Refurbishing theming in the off season:

how to plan maintenance and renovation

Every season leaves its mark. Sun fades colours, moisture and frost work their way into seams, and guests touch the theming thousands of times. The quiet months are the moment to do something about it. 

But if you only start planning when the park closes, you often run out of time. In four steps, here is how to approach theming refurbishment smartly, so everything is ready for the new season.

1. Take stock during the season

Walk through the park in the last weeks of the season, take photos and sort every item into one of three groups:

Cosmetic: faded colours, dirt, small scratches.
Damaged: cracks, broken parts, layers coming loose.
Safety: loose fixings, sharp edges. These always come first.

Tip: also take photos under the show lighting. A colour difference you barely notice by day can suddenly stand out under coloured light.

2. Touch up, repair or replace

Good news: composite repairs well. A crack is sanded, filled and refinished until the repair is invisible. Original mould gone? An existing part can often serve as the basis for a new one. More about mould making.

3. Match the colour to its surroundings

A new part next to theming that has been outdoors for years stands out quickly: too fresh, too glossy or just a different shade. So we do not match the original colour code, but what the surrounding theming looks like now. With weathering, patination and layered paintwork, the new part blends in. More about finishing and final product. 

4. Do as much as possible in the workshop

1. End of the season: inventory, photos and priorities.
2. Straight after: choices per piece and a schedule with your theming company.
3. Once the park closes: removable parts go to the workshop.
4. Quiet weeks: reinstallation and final finishing on site.
5. Before opening: inspection, colour corrections and handover.

Build in a buffer for bad weather and for parts that turn out worse than expected once removed.

Size the chance to improve 

A refurbishment is also the moment for stronger materials where things keep breaking, a better coating in sunny or damp spots, or new story elements that make a themed area surprising again for regular guests.

Frequently asked questions about theme park refurbishment

Can old polyester theming still be repaired?

Usually, yes. GRP can be sanded, filled and refinished well. Only with severe damage is replacing the better choice.

Can you paint theming outdoors in winter?

That depends on temperature and humidity. That is why we do as much as possible in the workshop and work on site in suitable weather or under cover.

Is replacing more expensive than repairing?

Not always. A piece that breaks every year often costs more in the long run than one stronger replacement.

Ready to make your idea tangible?

We bring your story to life, from first sketch to finished piece. Tell us about your plans and we will gladly think along. 

Rather talk it through first? Call +31 6 570 342 60 or email info@redbirdstudios.nl.