Tips for Painting Outside in Cold Temperatures
As I sit here writing this the temperature outside is 85 degrees, but the long, cold days of winter are just around the corner, so I’d like to share some tips with you I have acquired throughout the years on painting outside in cold weather.
The first is dress warm and layer. Remember you will most likely be standing outside, in one place, for an extended period of time as painting and cutting-in are not done quickly. Protect your face and hands from the wind and elements by wearing hoods and gloves. Keep a thermos of nice warm coffee or hot chocolate with you to warm you from within. Take numerous breaks and go inside to warm up.
The second important consideration is your painting equipment. Using the correct painting tools for cold weather is critical to the success of your project. Check with the manufacturer or read the label of the paint to make sure you can use it in the temperature you plan to paint in. Most latex paints are designed for use in the 50 degree range but some can go as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember the consistency of the paint will tend to be thicker at the lower temperatures so the correct choice of a paint brush is important. Generally speaking, the use of a Nylon/Polyester paint brush or Chinex blend paint brush work well as they tend to be a little “stiffer” and will apply the paint better in lower temperatures.
If you are spraying, take care it is not to windy as the paint overspray can travel further before it dries and damage cars or foliage in the area. Try to start your painting project later in the day when the sun is out to give the paint a chance to dry before nightfall. In colder temperatures, paint takes longer to dry so try to end your day earlier too.
At ThePaintStore.com we are the experts and will be glad to help you choose the proper equipment for your next outside painting project.
Tags: Exterior Painting, Painting in Cold Temperatures, Painting Outside, Painting Tips
