When The Paint Doctor finishes painting, our job isn’t done. We clean the room we painted, move the furniture back into place, label the cans of left over paint, and, most importantly, educate The Paint Doctor customers about how to properly store the remaining paint. After all, that left over paint can be key to touchups after boisterous kids leave finger marks on walls or picture hanging goes awry. In addition, Archie Deese, who runs The Paint Doctor, strongly believes it’s important that residential customers know how to properly dispose of paint so that the environment is not harmed. Archie has given some tips, below, on how to store paint. In our next post, Archie will offer tips on how to properly dispose of paint.
- Make sure that there is no dried or moist paint on the threads on the can as well as on the lid.
- Completely cover the can with either plastic wrap or a piece of wax paper for oil-based paints. This seal will make it easier to remove a film that may form after the paint has been stored for some time. The longer the storage time the thicker and bigger the film will be.
- Place the lid securely on the can and gently tap it with either a hammer or rubber mallet until the top is sealed of tightly. You want to have it on tight but not too tight because it might be tough to reopen.
- Store the paint can upside down so the paint will form a skin that will seal the paint and keep it fresher until you reuse it.
- Be sure to store the paint in an area that is away from heat. Paint is flammable and if the can is exposed to high temperatures the can can expand and the paint can leak.
- If the paint is water-based keep away from freezing temperatures as the paint can freeze – store it in a basement or on a high shelf in the garage. When the paint thaws out it still can be used but every time the paint freezes it degrades.
To contact the Paint Doctor you can call our office at (404) 524-8283 or visit our website at www.thepaintdoctor.com. Click here to request a quote.
