Rain on House Paint and What to do

Painting an exterior in spring can be difficult. Weather can be very volatile, with sunshine one moment, and rain storms the next. If the rain starts in the middle of your exterior painting project, what do you do? After the rain gives way, how long do you have to wait until you can work again? Fear not, we’re here to help with some advice on what to do when rain gets on your house paint during a project.

Can you paint in the rain?

Well, no. You can’t paint in the rain. When moisture gets on freshly painted walls it will ruin a job. This won’t stop some companies from trying to trick and trap you though. Some companies tout practices where they dry the walls and paint during the rain. Steer clear. This even voids paint warranties. Other companies try to say that if they use oil-based paints that the paint won’t run while they work in wet conditions. In theory, they are correct, but eventually you’ll be dealing with a mess of cracking and peeling paint since it won’t dry properly.

The rain ended. When can I paint?

This depends on several factors. Moisture in the air is more of a tell than the rain. Temperature, humidity, dew, and wind are all factors that need to be considered. Most paints can withstand a light shower 4 or so hours after being applied. With gutters and eaves it can get a bit more complicated since it’s in direct running contact with the water.

Dew point, color choice, and cooler temperatures can all affect drying time. Proper amounts of air movement and warmth are very important for paint to dry properly.

If the temperature in your area is not at least 5 degrees above the dew point, your paint dry time will be slower. Moisture could collect on newly painted surfaces and delay the drying process, or worse, cause flaws in the paint film.

What temperature is best to paint?

Light breeze, sunny and 74 degrees. Since most painters aren’t dealing with perfect conditions, realistically, the temperature should be comfortable enough to work in. In addition, no precipitation and a morning dew that burns off quickly are best.

I checked the weather, and it rained anyway. Now what?

Rest assured, your paint is not ruined. Take a deep breath and go through your options.

First, stop painting. Doing any more work is just wasted effort.

Now, look over your paint job. Are there areas that will be touched by rain. Run off or blowing rain drops can make a mess. If it’s just an area that has been skim coated or primed, you’re probably safe. It’s more concerning if it’s raining on a coat of paint. Do your best to protect it with draped plastic. If the rain does get to the paint, let it fall and do what you can to deal with it later. You cannot win a fight with Mother Nature.

Assess the damage

Once the rain has stopped, go look at your work. If it’s been ruined or run, wash it down with water. Remove drips with a pressure washer. Let it dry completely and start again.

If you have dried drips to deal with, go to the store for Krud Kutter. It will cut through the drips and allow you a fresh, flat surface to work with.

Breathe

Dealing with weather is inevitable during paint jobs. If you are in the middle of a breakdown over paint and rain, take a deep breath. A company will come back and get your job done in tip-top shape. If you are doing the work yourself, there are experts available to help you.

Need some help?

CertaPro Painters® of Lee’s Summit, MO would love to help you with your painting project. We offer a wide variety of services. Give us a call at 816-554-9393, or schedule a free online estimate today.