When Is It Too Hot to Paint Your House?
Posted on May 3, 2019
What is the Best Time to Paint?
The summer months seem ideal for exterior painting projects. Depending on your location, it could actually be too hot to paint. Throw in the extra concerns of afternoon showers and summer painting might not be an option. Here’s how to know when it’s too hot to paint.
Temperatures
The ideal painting temperature is between 40 and 90 degrees fahrenheit. Humidity can be a problem as well. For proper drying and bonding, the humidity levels need to be between 40 and 70%. Any more humidity in the air will impact the curing process and could create a problem with the finish of the paint.
Sunlight
Direct sunlight on the new paint you have put up can stop the paint from binding. It will crack or peel more easily, and in a shorter time frame. Blistering can even occur. Painting in heat generally needs to be done as soon as the dew is burned off and in the shade as the sun moves. Making sure you are always in the shade means you’ll need to plan enough time for your project to be completed in the shade. It could take several days to finish the exterior of your home due to weather issues.
Rain
If you live in a climate where there is regular rain storms, completing a painting project can be tedious. The walls need several days to dry out before you start your project. Moisture trapped in the walls can cause imperfections in the paint finish.
Wind
A gentle breeze can aid in the drying process of your paint job. Strong winds can make the paint dry to fast and prevent good films from forming. The wind can also cause films to form on your tools or in your can and tray. These lead to clumps in your project.
Manufacturer’s Labels
Some newer paints have been manufactured specifically for warmer conditions. Every label will contain specifics for use in particular weather conditions.
If you are worried about weather conditions and the outcome of your exterior painting project, call us! Our experts are happy to make sure you job turns out perfectly and lasts for years to come.
