A Leading Painting Company in Olathe Tells You How Long You Can Store Paint Before It Goes Bad – A leading painting company in Olathe understands that you want to save your leftover paint for another project that could occur in the future. Some projects don’t use as much paint as you thought, so it’s a good idea to hammer the lid back on and save it, right? Well, according to a leading Olathe exterior painter, that depends on the type of paint you use.
Different types of paint are made from different materials, some of which expire quicker than others. Leftover paint can last anywhere from two to fifteen years with ideal storage conditions, so it’s crucial to research the proper way to store your leftover paint.
At Residential Solutions, we take pride in being a trusted Olathe painting company and want to help keep your home looking its best. We ensure that our painting projects are completed professionally and promptly and take all the proper precautions to keep our workers and your family safe. We believe that your home’s exterior looks its best when the job is done efficiently and effectively.
We understand that paint can be expensive, so you probably want to store any leftover from your finished project. That’s why we’ve compiled some information on how long you can store different types of paint before they go bad.
Latex-Based Paint
According to house painters in Olathe, latex-based paint is one of the most popular types people use to complete projects. Many people use this type of paint on drywall, wood, stucco, and numerous other surfaces around their house. If stored correctly, this type of paint can last up to ten years. Latex-based paint is also very easy to clean up with just soap and water, making it a convenient choice for homeowners.
However, there are some downsides to using latex-based paint. It tends to dry quickly, which can make it difficult to blend colors or fix mistakes during the painting process. Additionally, this type of paint may not adhere well to glossy or previously painted surfaces without proper preparation.
Another common type of paint used in residential projects is oil-based paint. This type of paint has a smoother finish than latex-based paints and is more durable in high-traffic areas. It also takes longer to dry, allowing for more time to fix mistakes or blend colors.
On the other hand, oil-based paints have their own set of disadvantages. They emit strong fumes, making them unsuitable for use in poorly ventilated areas. They also require mineral spirits or turpentine for clean up, which can be messy and time-consuming.
A newer option that has gained popularity in recent years is water-based or acrylic paint. This type of paint dries quickly like latex-based paints but has a smoother finish similar to oil-based paints. It also offers the added benefit of being low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it more environmentally friendly.
However, some homeowners may find that water-based paints do not cover as well as oil-based paints and may require multiple coats for full coverage. They may also be more difficult to clean off brushes and other painting tools.
Ultimately, the best type of paint for your project will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the surface you are painting. It is important to carefully consider these factors before making a decision.
Once you have chosen the type of paint, it is also important to select the right finish for your project. Paint finishes range from flat or matte, which offers a non-reflective and smooth appearance, to high-gloss, which provides a shiny and durable finish.
Paint Primer
A residential painter in Olathe uses primer before they actually start painting. Unfortunately, primer has a much shorter shelf life than paint and goes bad within two to three years.
Oil-Based Paint
According to a leading painting company in Olathe it takes about fifteen years for oil-based paint to go bad, about five years longer than latex-based. However, oil-based paint is more toxic to humans, so it’s crucial to ensure that it’s applied and stored safely. This can include proper ventilation during application, wearing protective gear, and disposing of any leftover paint properly.
In addition to the type of paint used, there are other factors that can affect the lifespan of a paint job with a painting company in Olathe. These include the quality of the paint itself, as well as how well it is applied and maintained over time. A high-quality paint with proper application can last up to 20 years or more, while a lower quality paint may only last for 5-10 years.
Proper maintenance is also key in extending the life of your paint job. Regular cleaning and touch-ups can help prevent damage from dirt, grime, and natural elements such as sunlight and moisture. It’s also important to fix any cracks or peeling areas before they become larger issues.
When applying paint, it’s important to follow the instructions on the can and use proper techniques or hire a painting company in Olathe. This includes using a primer for better adhesion, painting in dry and moderate temperatures, and allowing each layer of paint to fully dry before applying another. It’s also recommended to wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask when working with paint to prevent any potential health hazards.
Once your painting project is complete with a painting company in Olathe, it’s important to properly dispose of any leftover paint. Never pour paint down drains or into the environment as it can be harmful to wildlife and the ecosystem. Instead, consider donating unused paint to local organizations or recycling centers.
How to Tell If Your Paint Has Gone Bad
There are several signs that your leftover paint has gone bad, the most common being an odor. If you notice a pungent, repulsing smell coming from the can, it’s probably gone bad. Lumps or a “sheen of skin” on top of your paint are also common indicators that your paint is no longer usable.
You should throw away your paint if it’s completely separated and is semi-transparent; this means that it’s no longer useable, and the pigment won’t correctly adhere to your wall.
Using expired paint is ineffective and dangerous, so it’s crucial to dispose of it when it’s done correctly. Call your local waste collector or residential painter to see how to dispose of your expired paint properly.
Hire a Trusted Painting Company in Olathe to Paint Your Home
At Residential Solutions, we pride ourselves on being a trusted Olathe painting company. We are also experienced in cabinet refinishing, hardwood floor installations, deck staining, and wood rot services.
If you are considering painting your home, or need new hardwood floors, contact us online or at 913-522-9004 to discuss your next project.
