How To Store Extra Paint
It doesn’t matter how big or small your painting project may be, chances are you are going to have at least a small amount of paint leftover in the can. The question now is how you should store this paint to make sure that it keeps well? You will want it to stay in good condition just in case you want to use it for a new project or to repair scratches on whatever you painted.
The worst way that paint is stored is when people put the paint cans on a shelf in their garage or shed. This is because extreme weather conditions have negative effects on paint. When paint gets too hot or too cold it changes consistency which makes it unusable. Latex paint is particularly susceptible to damage due to the weather and, when subjected to these conditions, either separates into curdles or dries into a rubbery block.
You also want to avoid storing your leftover paint in a high-moisture area because it will cause the metal paint cans to rust. If you open a rusted paint can lid, it will cause rust and metal particles to fall into the paint and will ruin whatever project you are using the paint on. This is why bathrooms and kitchens are not the ideal place to store your leftover paint.
The best place to store leftover paint is in a cool, dry place that is temperature-controlled. A basement would be ideal because the paint would be kept out of direct sunlight and a basement generally has dry air. However, if you are storing your paint in the basement you will want to make sure that your paint cans are not left to sit on the floor because this will wick up moisture and cause rust. If you don’t have a basement, a closet will work almost as well because it also keeps the paint in a dry space out of direct sunlight which is also temperature-controlled.
Some other ways to ensure that your paint keeps better is to clean paint out of the sealing rim of the paint can when you close the can. By doing this you are allowing the lid to get a better seal on the can and ensuring that no air can get into the paint and dry it out. You can also use a layer of plastic wrap between the can and the lid to act as a gasket which will further seal it.
Once you are sure that you have successfully sealed your paint can and you will have no leakage, you can store the paint can upside-down which allows the paint itself acts as a sealant. When resealing the paint can, you should avoid using a metal hammer to bang the lid into place which can cause deformity in the lid and seal and in turn allows more air in. Instead, you should use a rubber mallet and lightly tap it into place just enough to make sure that it is sealed.
Paint has a lifespan like everything else, storing it properly will make sure it lasts longer. For professional assistance with your residential painting projects or for more information in general, contact the experts from Noel Painting today!
