Oftentimes, painters are called out during the cooler times of year as the activities around a home begin to slow. However, you need to make sure that the paint goes onto an exterior or interior wall at the proper temperature. Otherwise, you will have problems with adhesion.

For example, exterior paint that is water-based requires specific conditions for proper curing. Otherwise, you may have to have your home repainted. The outside temperature should be at the minimum 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime and should not drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit during the night for several days. That is because curing takes several days. As the temperature takes a dip, dew accumulates on the surface, causing the water in the paint to evaporate at too slow of a rate.

Make Sure the Paint Adheres Properly

Even if the day temperature is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature plunge at night may cause the paint to dry poorly. If the paint does not form a suitable film, it can affect how the application holds up or resists cracks, mildew, or stains.

Some paint manufacturers claim that their paints can cure in temperatures as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, if you plan to paint in the winter, you want to review the extended forecast. You also want to review the label on the paint can about ranges in temperature.

Even if you paint your interior walls, it is helpful to paint them when the temperature is warmer. As the wall can be colder than the temperature inside, you need to take this into consideration. The use of a cold-weather-friendly house paint for the exterior or one that can be applied at a colder temperature is advised.

Store the Paint and Caulk at Room Temperature

Because paint takes longer to dry in colder temperatures, you must allow for additional drying time. Also, the paint materials and the paint should always be stored at room temperature. Therefore, make sure that you store the paint, patching, and caulk in a warm location, one that is around 65 degrees to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow for the paint to go on more seamlessly.

If you are scheduling cold-weather painting, the contractor should begin the work after 8 am and finish before it turns dark. Again, you need to allow for sufficient curing time before the temperature drops.

When painting in the winter months, it is always a good idea to begin on the side of the house where the sun rises, or the east. Avoid the north side in the early morning as this is a colder area. Because some of the newer paints are low-temperature friendly, it makes it easier to paint in colder weather. However, the best time to paint in winter is normally on a sunny day between the hours of 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. Therefore, you can allow for additional drying time before the temperature falls.

Temperature is the main factor considered when painting in the winter months. As long as you make plans to paint during the times that are more hospitable with respect to temperature and climate, you will succeed at the task.