Story from Arizona Painting Company: Avoid these 6 common mistakes when storing leftover paint
The article details six common mistakes people make when storing leftover paint and offers solutions to ensure the paint remains in good condition for future use. Many homeowners experience issues with leftover paint, such as altered color, dried-out consistency, or clumping, primarily due to improper storage. This guide, based on insights from Joe Campbell, co-owner of Arizona Painting Company, aims to help individuals avoid these pitfalls.
The first common mistake is storing paint in a garage, especially in hot climates like Arizona. Garages can reach temperatures exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit, which is detrimental to paint. Extreme heat can lead to the evaporation of crucial chemicals, including water, thereby altering the paint's consistency and color. The recommended temperature range for storing paint is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The article suggests storing paint in temperature-controlled utility rooms or even pantries for smaller cans. Additionally, storing metal cans directly on the floor is discouraged as it can accelerate rusting.
The second mistake involves improper opening and resealing of paint cans. Using a screwdriver to open a paint can can damage the lid, allowing air to seep in and cause the paint to dry or clump. A paint key, readily available at hardware stores, is the correct tool for opening cans. Furthermore, it is crucial to clean the lip of the paint can thoroughly before resealing to ensure a proper airtight seal. Using a rubber mallet, rather than a regular hammer, to close the lid is also advised to prevent denting the can and its lip.
The third issue arises from using the wrong bucket size for leftover paint. When a large bucket contains only a small amount of paint, the excess air within the container can cause the paint to dry out over time. The solution is to consolidate the paint into a smaller container. For instance, if less than a gallon of paint remains in a five-gallon bucket, it should be transferred to a smaller container. Similarly, if less than a quart is left in a one-gallon can, a smaller can should be sought from a hardware store to minimize air exposure, thus preserving the paint's freshness.
Disregarding the smell test is the fourth mistake. Fresh paint typically has a subtle chemical smell. However, if old paint emits an odor resembling rotten eggs, it indicates bacterial contamination, often occurring after the paint has been color-tinted. Paint with such an odor should be discarded as its performance will be compromised. Low-VOC paints, due to their reduced stabilizing solvents, are particularly susceptible to bacterial intrusion.
The fifth point highlights the importance of using a neighborhood paint store to remix paint. Over time, paint resins can separate from water and other components. While manual stirring or shaking can help, a machine at a paint store can blend the paint more effectively, restoring its original consistency. This service is often free and ensures optimal paint quality.
Finally, mislabeling cans is a common oversight. Although it doesn't affect the paint's chemical composition, faded or painted-over labels can lead to confusion about the paint's color, code, or the rooms where it was used. To avoid this, the article recommends using a permanent marker to clearly label each can with the actual color name, its code, and a list of rooms where it was applied. This ensures easy identification for future touch-ups.
In summary, by following these practical tips for proper storage temperature, correct opening and sealing techniques, appropriate container sizing, odor checks, professional remixing, and clear labeling, homeowners can significantly extend the life and usability of their leftover paint, preventing common frustrations and waste.
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