When planning an exterior painting project in Western New York, it’s essential to consider the weather, particularly the overnight temperatures. Painting outside when overnight temperatures dip below 50°F can lead to several issues that compromise the quality and durability of the job. Here’s why you should wait for warmer weather before you paint.
1. Poor Adhesion to Surfaces
Most exterior house paints, especially latex and acrylic-based paints, require a minimum temperature of 50°F to properly adhere to surfaces. If applied in cold conditions, the paint may struggle to bond correctly, leading to peeling, flaking, or chipping in the near future. Even though the paint might dry on the surface, the lack of proper adhesion could lead to long-term damage. While paint manufacturers like Benjamin Moore advertise the ability to paint down to 35F, pockets of air can easily dip below freezing in WNY causing the paint to freeze before it fully dries. (bad)
2. Extended Drying & Curing Times
Cold temperatures significantly slow down the drying process of paint. In warmer conditions, paint typically dries within an hour or two with a recoat time with in 4 hours, allowing for easier second coats and a smoother finish. But when temperatures fall, the drying and curing times can take substantially long. This means:
- The paint remains soft and susceptible to damage for a longer period.
- Dust, debris, or insects are more likely to get stuck in the wet paint.
- Drips and sags are more likely to form as the paint remains in a liquid form longer.
- Curing can take much longer, leaving your work exposed to potential issues, such as freezing.
3. Inconsistent Sheen and Surface Issues
The quality of a paint job can suffer if paint is applied in temperatures below 50°F. Some common problems include:
- Rough or uneven texture – Cold temperatures prevent the paint from self leveling properly, leading to visible brush or roller strokes. Especially if your chasing drips because the paint wont set up.
- Bubbles or blisters – When paint isn’t able to set properly, trapped moisture beneath the paint surface can form bubbles or blisters, damaging the finish. Leading to more work the next day.
- Chalking – This happens when the surface of the paint remains soft, causing it to rub off easily. This can be a serious problem, paint doesn’t penetrate dust very well, instead it lays on top of it.
4. Increased Risk of Moisture Issues
In cooler temperatures, humidity levels tend to rise, and dew often forms overnight. If the paint hasn’t fully dried before dew settles on it, it can cause streaking or blotching, and in some cases, it may completely ruin the finish. This moisture can interfere with the paint’s ability to properly cure, potentially causing long-term issues like mold growth or paint failure.
5. Challenges with Oil-Based Paint and Primers
When using oil-based paint and primers, the cold temperatures cause the paint to thicken, making it harder to apply evenly. The thicker consistency often leads to more brush or roller marks and an uneven coat. Oil-based paints and primers also take significantly longer to dry, further delaying the project.
Can You Paint in Cold Weather?
You can, but we don’t recommend it. We also will not jeopardize our reputation to meet unrealistic deadlines. If you absolutely must paint when overnight temperatures are lower than 50°F, consider these tips to improve your results:
- Choose cold-weather paint: Most high quality exterior house paints are formulated to work in temperatures as low as 35°F. Always check the label before beginning.
- Paint during the warmest part of the day: Aim to paint between mid-morning and early afternoon, when temperatures are at their peak.
- Check the surface temperature: Even if the air temperature is over 50°F, surfaces like wood, metal, or brick can still be much colder. Use an infrared thermometer to check the actual temperature of the surface before painting.
- Avoid late-day painting: If you paint in the late afternoon or evening, the temperature will likely drop quickly, and dew can settle on the freshly applied paint. This can lead to streaks or failure to dry properly.
- Cold temperatures are often associated with rain. Ideally, you want 60-90 minutes before the rain begins. If you feel a rain drop, stop immediately!
Or wait until the temperature is above 50F so as to avoid any potential issues.
In conclusion While it might seem convenient to paint in cooler temperatures, doing so when temperatures fall below 50°F can cause a range of problems that affect the appearance and longevity of a paint job. To ensure the best results, we wait for warmer weather. Patience during the planning stage can save you time and in many cases a lot money in the long run!
If you’re looking for expert exterior painting services, Carrigan Painting is here to help! We ensure high-quality, long-lasting finishes that stand up to the elements.
With over 25 years of experience in residential construction, Dave specializes in ceiling repairs and high-end interior painting, often exceeding contractual obligations to ensure the highest level of craftsmanship. His ability to maintain exceptional customer satisfaction in such a demanding field is a testament to his expertise, integrity, and dedication to quality.
Dave Carrigan Jr. is the owner of Carrigan Painting, a 5-star-rated residential painting and plaster repair company serving the first- and second-ring northern suburbs of Buffalo, NY. For 15 consecutive years, Carrigan Painting has maintained a perfect 5-star reputation—an achievement nearly unmatched in the industry.
As the author of The Painter’s Plastering Blog, Dave shares expert insights on home improvement, plaster restoration, and industry trends. He also personally manages Carrigan Painting’s website and YouTube channel, providing homeowners with valuable resources and a firsthand look at the company’s craftsmanship.
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