Whenever you’re doing exterior painting projects, knowing the temperature outside is a very big deal.
Whenever you’re doing exterior painting projects, knowing the temperature outside is a very big deal. Failure to account for the temperature outside puts you at risk for several paint job problems, such as paint drying too quickly or peeling.
Since we’re still dealing with a little more cold weather until spring arrives, we want to be sure you know when it’s considered too cold to paint.
What Temperatures Are Not Suitable for Exterior Painting?
Generally speaking, you’re not going to want to do any exterior painting when temperatures go under 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Paint reacts differently at varying temperatures, and that’s not even the only factor to keep in mind.
Things also get problematic when there’s an excess of moisture in the air. You don’t want to be in a scenario where you’re getting your house repainted all because your paint began to peel before it had sufficient time to properly cure.
What Temperatures Are Appropriate for Exterior Painting?
This is a multi-layered question because the right temperature for exterior painting will fluctuate depending on what type of paint you use.
For latex paint, you want to paint your house between the temperatures of 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Oil-based paints, in contrast, are a little more flexible, being acceptable for use between 45 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
In situations in which you can’t avoid painting at lower temperatures, go with latex paint that is specially designed to be used at lower temperatures.
Other Considerations for Your Exterior Painting Project
There can be some variance between the temperature of surfaces and the temperature of the air, meaning you’ll have to factor this variance into your painting project. Some surfaces will need more time, sometimes as long as a couple of days, to get warm again after they have been exposed to the cold. Because certain paints will require one or multiple days to cure, keep watch on the weather the day after painting has been done just to check and be sure that temperatures don’t change too dramatically during the staining or drying process.
As an extra precaution, it’s recommended that you follow the shadow of the sun as you get exterior painting done. This reduces the time that you have to spend getting painting done in direct sunlight, which would otherwise make your paint dry out too quickly. Lastly, give your paint enough time to dry prior to sunset.
Contact Albaugh & Sons
Since 2003, Albaugh & Sons, LLC has been dedicated to meeting the fencing, decking, and home remodeling needs of homeowners throughout the greater Frederick area. All of our team members are experienced, well-trained, and committed to exceeding the expectations of every customer.
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