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Shop Wall Painting This Time Of Year?

705 views 14 replies 10 participants last post by  HydroHarold 
Here are a few thoughts from one sight:

Painting in cold weather.

As the days become cooler through autumn and into winter, the application and proper curing of latex and oil/alkyd paint can be significantly affected by low air and substrate temperatures and increasing moisture levels.
Latex Paint:

Air Temperature - The proper formation of the paint film can be seriously affected if paint is applied when air temperature is below 50° F. Paint film may crack and check, and improper film formation may cause a powdery film that can be brushed off the substrate. This can cause the touch-up coat to look several shades lighter than the base coat.

Moisture Levels - The moisture level in the air increases as temperatures drop during the fall which can cause large amounts of condensation to form on exposed surfaces. If the condensation forms on a paint film that has not fully cured, it can cause surfactant bleed or shadowing, primarily in deep and accent colors as evidenced by glossy, dark streaks or blotches on the paint film. Condensation can also dramatically slow the dry time and cure time of the film, increasing the water sensitivity of the paint film until it has fully cured.

Substrate Temperature - When surface temperature of the substrate is below 50° F it can significantly slow the drying time and even prevent proper film formation of the paint. It is important to note that the surface temperature can vary between different areas on the same structure causing the dry time and proper film formation to vary as well.

Paint Temperature - The performance of the paint can also be affected by the temperature of the paint when it is applied. Store the paint in an area that will be at least 50° F. If the paint is applied when it is too cold it will not flow and level properly, leading to excessive film build, thereby slowing the dry and cure time of the film.

Here's to warm weather staying till things dry.
 
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