It’s happened to all of us. A painting project doesn’t require all the paint that you purchased. Now it’s time for the lid to be hammered back on and it’s time to take it to the basement or garage. Paint can go bad within two to fifteen years. This is a huge range. How can you estimate when the paint will be used up? To estimate shelf life, consider the paint type and storage conditions. Being the best painters in Auckland, we will walk you through the process.
Latex paint can go bad
It is possible for latex-based paint to go bad but it can take a while. With a few exceptions, you should be able to keep it up to ten years. Latex paint’s shelf-life is affected by whether the can has been opened. You’ll get more use out of the paint if it isn’t used. A paint can that has been opened and sealed is more likely to last longer than one that has been closed.
This is due to bacteria that can be found in the paint. Bacteria need certain conditions to thrive, such as heat, humidity, and darkness. These conditions can be found in a closed paint container in your garage, shed, or basement. It’s more likely that a modern low-VOC or no-VOC latex paint will be damaged by bacteria over time if it’s not used regularly.
You may be asking why bacteria in paint is important. It’s not the same as bacteria found in food. The bacteria found in paints are not harmful, but they can cause streaks and peel by reducing the patient’s ability to stick to itself.
Oil-based paints can be bad
Although oil-based paints can be ruined, it won’t take longer than a decade. Unopened oil-based paints can last for up to 15 years, five years more than latex paint. Oil-based paints are more durable than modern latex paints. They have higher VOC counts which help preserve the paint longer. This makes the paint more toxic overall.
Paint primer go bad?
Primer can be just as bad as regular paint and has a shorter shelf life. Primer has a shelf life of between two and three years. This is significantly shorter than paint.
How to tell if the paint is bad?
No matter what base you have, there are some signs that your primer or paint is bad.
Odor. A bad can of paint will often have a strong smell, just like rotten food.
Modifications: It is possible that your paint consistency has changed. You might notice the skin on the surface, or lumps that are difficult to stir out. Your paint is most likely to have expired if you find any of these.
Separated solutions: Try stirring the paint to see if it comes together again. Wait a few minutes. If the paint separates quickly, it is not safe to use. The solvent and pigment will not work together to stick to the wall properly.
What is the best way to dispose of old paint?
Paint is composed of solvents and other compounds that can be potentially dangerous. You shouldn’t throw out your old paint. There are many programs that can help you dispose of your old paint. If your paint is still in good condition, you can donate it to charity.
How to avoid leaving behind paint
If you don’t plan on doing multiple projects at once, chances are you will have leftover paint. Sindabad Decorators is a local company where our painters in Auckland can help you store leftover paint. We are able to handle any painting project, indoors or out.
When the job is done, we do a thorough clean-up so that you don’t have to worry about where to put all those paint cans. Call 021 818 930 to get started with your paint project.