For How Long Can You Keep Your Old Paint?

The painting process is one of the best ways to increase the curb appeal of your house. During all the process, homeowners also have to keep their paint safe. Sometimes, paints get left and you have to save it by using some of the best ways to store paint. 

Keeping this in mind, the question asked by many people is that for how long you can keep the old paint? Before the answer, you should note down that some of the communities are having strict rules of disposing household chemicals that include house paint as well. Most of the homeowners place their paint cans in the garage or utility closets. You should not throw them out and you should use them for the touch-ups. To get your house painted, you should contact The Barnstable Painters, a professional Cape Cod painting company to get the desired results. In addition to this, you can also get services related to interior painting, commercial painting, awning cleaning, deck restoration, power washing, and much more to facilitate the valued customers. 

If your paints are properly stored and sealed, they can last for several years and can be used for the touch-up. You just have to keep them away from freezing and hot temperatures. Following are the things that you should know:

Shelf Life

The shelf life of the paint depends on the type of paint. For your information, the alkyd or solvent-based paint can last for up to 15 years if they are stored properly. This will be only possible when you have to store the paint at the right temperature. Furthermore, the latex and water-based acrylic paint will last for 10 years. 

Wondering where to store paint? In the case of leftovers, you should use them within two years but keep them close and stored in a cool and dry place.

Re-Using Paint

If you are planning to reuse paint, you need to then open the can, stir it, and mix it well. Before the usage, you should brush it on a test surface before applying it on a wall or other surface. For the long-term storage, the paint will separate to solids and liquids with solids deposits at the bottom.

Few Indicators of Paints is Spoiled

Presence of the mold in the paint.

Solids might have become hard at the bottom and they are not going to be mixed.

The paint will not be mixed well if the solid particles are not soft within the paint.

Paint Disposal

If you are planning to dispose off the old paint, then you should check the guidelines of the community, city, and state for proper paint disposal. It is important to note that the alkyd and oil-based paints are treated as toxic waste and they should be disposed of properly. Furthermore, if you are not able to do it, then you should contact the Cape Cod house painting company to get the best painting results for your house.