Not every project arises under ideal conditions. Sometimes you'll have to spray paint in the winter. Cold has a negative impact on spray paint; it thickens the substance and slows drying times. This article explores how to achieve the best results when spray painting in cold weather.
Spray painting is a liquid coating used for complete coverage and rust protection. The paint is kept in a pressurized aerosol can and layers relatively evenly. You can spray paint in cold weather, but it is not ideal.
If you must spray paint in cold weather, plan your project for the warmest part of the day. Spray paint in the afternoon; the mornings and evenings are too cold and don't receive as much sunlight.
Plan ahead and try to ascertain when the temperature will exceed 35 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmer the day, the better the conditions are for spray painting.
How Long Does It Take Spray Paint To Dry In The Winter?
Cold weather slows spray paint drying times considerably. Because you cannot apply subsequent coats of paint until the last layer has dried, this prolongs the project's life by a great deal.
Different temperatures require different lengths of time to dry. The durations break down like this:
Immediately bringing a project indoors speeds up the spray paint drying time. A room temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit or higher gives you the shortest time between coats.
How To Successfully Spray Paint In Cold Weather
Extreme temperatures damage paint and compromise adhesion. Cold weather impacts paint's ability to adhere, but it also thickens the paint, making it viscous and difficult to spray.
Which Spray Paint to Use?
Paint thickens in cold weather, making application harder and spottier. Make sure you select a cold-rated spray paint. Most manufacturers sell acrylic latex paints that you can use in temperatures as cold as 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
Additionally, ensure that your stain is compatible with your project. Some spray paints work better on wood, some on metal, and some are multi-purpose.
You can order various colors for many purposes of Krylon Latex Spray Paint from Amazon.com. Every spray paint can tell you the minimum temperature you can use it. Ensure the day is at least as warm as the designated temperature; otherwise, the paint will not dry correctly.
Preparing the Surface
Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit impact spray paint adhesion. Your spray paint is already struggling to stick to cold surfaces; remove any further obstacles to adherence.
Grime and grit negatively impact spray paint's ability to stick to a surface, so be thorough in your cleaning. Make sure to remove any loose dirt or residue from the object or area you are spray painting.
Keep The Surface Warm
Keeping both the spray paint and the surface warm ensures the best finish on your project.
Neither the object nor the spray paint should be cold. Cold paint has adhesion issues, and painters apply more coats to compensate. The upper layers of paint dry while the base stays wet, causing the paint to crackle.
Counteract this by keeping the paint and the surface warm as long as possible. Keep the paint and object indoors until you are ready to apply the paint.
If the paint can is cold to the touch, float it in warm water. Spray paint is best stored at temperatures between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tips & Tricks For Spray Painting In Winter
If you have to spray paint in winter, keep these tips in mind for the greatest chance of a successful project.
Safety Precautions
Make sure you spray paint in a well-ventilated area. The cold makes this harder. Typically spray painting is done outside, but in the winter, the cold impacts the paint as well as the painter. Dress for the temperature if you must spray paint outside.
Complete your project in a garage if one is available. Any indoor spot needs to be ventilated, and you should aim to wear a respirator mask. Spray paint contains fumes that are harmful for the lungs and should never be inhaled.
Making It Stick
Maximizing spray paint adherence requires three major steps.
Ensure the primer fits your project; some are specific to metal or wood. We recommend Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Spray Primer as their top primer pick. You can purchase cans individually or in multi-packs at Amazon.com. Wait 24 hours after priming to apply your first layer of paint.
Where Is The Best Place To Spray Paint During The Winter?
Spray paint is toxic if inhaled, so projects are best done outdoors. Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for spray painting.
How To Store The Paint During Cold Weather?
Spray paint can and will freeze in the cold. Store your extra paint in a dark, dry indoor location instead of a shed or garage. The room needs to be between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Basements and storage closets are ideal; your home's heating system keeps them warm enough to maintain the life of the paint.
Always keep your spray paint cans upright. Cans kept upside down or left on their sides have shorter shelf lives. Properly stored spray paint lasts between 10 and 20 years, contingent on the brand.
Spray Painting In Cold Weather FAQs
What is the lowest temperature you can use spray paint?
The winter can be simply too cold to paint. Remember that cold-rated paints are suitable for 35 degrees Fahrenheit or above temperatures. This measurement doesn't apply to just the air; it also applies to the surface of your project. Make sure both are at 35 degrees or higher.
Completing a spray painting project requires multiple coats, so plan for 48 hours at 35 degrees or above.
Is Rustoleum spray paint good to use in cold weather?
It is best to use Rustoleum in temperatures between 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 50 degrees impact the adhesion qualities of Rustoleum, so it is not excellent cold-weather spray paint.
How long will the spray paint last if you did it during winter?
A well-applied spray paint job lasts between three and four years. A properly cleaned and primed project will maintain its paint job for three to four years, regardless of when you have applied the paint.
Conclusion
Cold weather spray painting is never ideal. If you must spray paint in the winter, take the appropriate measures to counteract the freezing temperatures and ensure a great finished product.