How long does paint keep and what is the best way to store it?
Paint is an indispensable product for any paint job. Whether you want to freshen up your walls, give your furniture a new look or have a creative hobby, the quality of your paint is crucial. But how well does paint actually keep and how do you ensure that it retains its quality? Does paint have an expiry date? And does that differ per type of paint? In this article we tell you everything you need to know about the shelf life of paint and how best to store paint.
Why is it important to store paint in the right conditions?
Storing paint properly has several advantages. Storing paint in the right conditions will extend its lifespan, saves you money as you need to buy new paint less often and ensures you always have high-quality paint on hand for your next paint job. Properly stored paint retains its consistency in colour and texture, which is essential for a perfect end result.
The shelf life of paint
Paint can last a surprisingly long time if stored properly. The shelf life of paint depends on several factors, such as the type of paint, packaging and storage conditions. In general, unopened paint can be used for two to four years if stored properly. Some types of paint can even last longer, while other types of paint have shorter shelf lives.
Water-based paint: This type of paint is environmentally friendly and dries quickly. Water-based paint generally lasts 1 to 2 years if unopened and stored properly.
Solvent-based paint: Also known as synthetic paint, generally lasts longer than water-based paint. Unopened tins of solvent-based paint can last up to 3 years if stored properly.
Tips for storing paint
Storing paint properly is essential to extend its shelf life and ensure quality. Here are some tips to make your paint last longer:
- Store in a cool, dry place: Store paint in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity as these can damage the paint. Ideally, store paint in a place where the temperature is between 5°C and 25°C. A basement or cool, stable storage area is often a good choice. Paint that has frozen is no longer usable.
- Well-sealed packaging: Make sure the paint tin is always properly closed. Air causes the paint to dry out and a skin to form, making the paint unusable. Use a plastic wrap over the lid for an extra airtight seal.
- Transfer paint into a smaller tin: If you have any paint left over after a job, pour it into a smaller tin or glass jar. This minimises the amount of air in the packaging and helps keep the paint fresh for longer. Make sure you also close the new packaging properly.
- Storing water-based paint: Water-based paint is environmentally friendly and dries quickly. Store this type of paint in a place where the temperature is between 10°C and 20°C and protect it from frost. Frost can damage this paint and render it unusable.
- Storing solvent-based paint: Solvent-based paint, also known as synthetic paint, contains solvents that keep the paint flexible. Store this paint in a well-ventilated area and ensure the tin is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation. In addition, store this type of paint away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
How do you know when paint has gone bad?
It is important to know when paint is no longer usable. Here are some signs to look out for:
Scent: Smell the paint. A foul or strange odour may be a sign that the paint has gone bad. If the paint smells unpleasant, it is probably no longer usable.
Texture: If the paint is lumpy or does not mix properly, it is probably no longer usable. Stir the paint well and check that the texture is still smooth and even.
Can you see water or oil on top of the paint? First stir this well through the paint to see if the paint is still usable.
Skin formation: A skin on the paint indicates drying out. Carefully remove the skin and check the paint underneath. If the paint underneath the skin is still smooth and blends well, you can still use it. In this case, we advise you to first do a test to check how it dries.
Change in colour: If the paint is of a different colour than expected, it is possible that the paint is no longer good. Paint can change in colour over time, especially when exposed to light and air.
Storing paint
Properly storing paint can significantly extend its shelf life and ensure a durable, beautiful result for your next painting project. Whether you work with water-based or solvent-based paint, with these tips you will always be well prepared.
Additional tips for storing paint
In addition to the basic principles for storing paint, there are a few additional tips you can use to ensure your paint stays in good condition for longer:
- Storing used brushes and rollers: When taking a break from your paint job, try wrapping used brushes and rollers in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. This prevents the paint from drying out and makes it easier to continue painting later on.
- Check regularly: Regularly check your paint for signs of deterioration, especially if you have not used it for a long time. This helps you to recognise and solve problems early.
- Labelling tins of paint: Label your paint tins with the date of purchase, colour number and type of paint. This helps you keep track of how old the enamel or wall paint is and ensures that you always use the right paint for your project.
With the right care and storage, you will be ready to tackle any paint job with confidence, knowing your paint will stay in tip-top condition. This way you can continue to enjoy fresh, vibrant colours and a perfectly finished result.
Advice: when using ‘older’ paint, always do a test before starting to paint. If the paint is easy to work with, dries satisfactorily and gives the desired result, then you can still use the paint.
Do you have any further paint-related questions or need advice for your project?
Do you have specific questions about Ralston or the shelf life of paint? Or do you want to know which paint is best suited to your project? Please contact our paint experts.
