Yes, any form of paint will ultimately deteriorate. If properly sealed and stored, a previously opened can of paint has an average shelf life of five years. The shelf life of old paint may also vary depending on the type of paint.
Paints such as acrylic or latex can last up to ten years if not opened. Unopened oil or alkyd-based paints may have a shelf life of up to fifteen years. Furthermore, milk paint only lasts 1-2 weeks after mixing, but chalk paint has a shorter duration of 1-3 years.
However, the type of paint being stored and the storage climate influence how long paint lasts.
Paint that has not been sealed and is stored in a garage with low temperatures will only last a year or two. High heat can ruin any type of paint.
This category includes Sherwin-Williams, Dulux, Glidden, Kilz, Zinser, Benjamin Moore, and Behr paints and primers.
How to Tell if Your Paint is Still Good
To ensure your paint remains in top condition, especially when preparing for interior painting in Minneapolis, keep an eye out for these key indicators:
- Smell test
If you open the lid and the paint has a strong, rancid, or sour stench, it may have gone bad. A musty odor akin to mold or mildew suggests deterioration. If the odor continues after application, the paint should be discarded.
- Freeze and Thaw
Repeated freezing and thawing can impair the quality of paint. While some manufacturers, such as Glidden, claim that thawed paint can be used if it is not clumpy and has no unpleasant odor, paint experts typically advise against using paint that has gone through numerous freeze-thaw cycles.
- Texture Check
Latex paint can form a film over time, but once it has solidified into chunks, it is no longer usable. Even after adding water, these hardened clumps will not disintegrate.
- Jelly-like consistency
If your paint has a jelly-like texture—neither solid nor liquid—it is beyond its best. Paint should blend smoothly; if it doesn’t, let it go.
- Can Condition
Rust on the outside of the paint can isn’t usually a deal breaker, but if rust has penetrated the paint, it’s preferable to discard it. When opening a rusty can, use caution to avoid contaminating the paint inside.
- Mold or Mildew Presence
If you see mold or mildew within the can, don’t use the paint. Dispose of it properly in a hazardous waste facility.
Tips for Making Paint Last Longer
A few basic techniques can help prolong the longevity of your paint and prevent it from deteriorating too quickly:
Use additives: For older latex paint, add a little water to help restore its consistency. For old oil-based paint, a touch of thinner can do the trick.
Seal it properly: Before sealing the lid, remove any pollutants, including organic debris like leaves or grass. Then, place plastic kitchen wrap over the open container and firmly press the lid down, preferably using a rubber mallet to avoid denting the can.
If the lid is so caked with paint that it won’t seal, drape the plastic wrap over the entire can, bringing it down the side a few inches, and secure it with a rubber band.
Store paint correctly: To ensure longevity, store exterior paint in cool, dry conditions similar to those for interior paint. Consider using plastic containers, as corrosion from metal cans may contaminate the paint.
Watch for temperature fluctuations: Store paint in a dry area with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F to avoid drastic changes. Never let the paint freeze, and try to avoid any temperature surges, whether high or low.
These practices can help you manage the overall cost to paint a stucco house by ensuring your paint remains effective when you need it.
Conclusion
To summarize, while paint has a limited shelf life, good storage and care can greatly extend its usability. By regularly checking for signs of degradation and following basic preservation guidelines, you can keep your paint in good condition for years. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or managing your materials for exterior painting in Saint Paul, MN, knowing the status of your paint ensures you achieve the best results when it’s time to paint.
