Temperature and Frozen Paint water-based paint may begin to freeze at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. At exactly sub-zero temperatures, the paint can start to freeze within an hour. However, at lower temperatures, 20 degrees Fahrenheit, for example, the paint can freeze even faster. Paint made of latex is more susceptible to freezing.
The paint can freeze at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, just like normal water, since it is water-based. Freezing will affect the performance of paints. The consistency, color and smell of the paint will change when subjected to very low temperatures. You can still repair frozen paint by defrosting it properly to remove lumps.
The formation of lumps, which is present when the paint is frozen, is a sign that the paint is no longer good to use. Maintaining the right temperature and proper storage are the key ways to avoid damage caused by freezing. As a general rule, paints and solvents should not be stored at sub-zero temperatures. Storing paint in a garage won't work well if you have a cold climate in your area.
The point at which low temperatures will render the paint unusable varies depending on the type of paint you have. Water-based paints have the same freezing point as water (32 degrees Fahrenheit), while acrylic and oil paints can freeze at lower temperatures. For oil-based paints, they are usually made with linseed oil, which freezes at a temperature of -4°F. You may be able to store an open paint can for up to two years if you store it properly and don't expose it to air.
Latex paint freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep cans in a place that won't get as cold. Latex or oil-based paint should be stored in a sealed container for at least two years if it is not stored properly. This shelf life depends on the paint being stored in a dark, dry place that does not get too hot or cold and is not exposed to flame, smoke or excessive sun. This avoids damaging the lid and creates an airtight seal on the paint can, making it less susceptible to changes in the air around it.
Of course, this will still depend on how you store the paint and how long you have left it frozen. It is recommended to hermetically close excess paints and store them in a cool, dry place for two years before you can use them. You can also save yourself some trouble later by painting a line on the side of the paint can at the level that the paint reaches inside the can. The paint should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from extreme hot and cold temperatures to prevent it from drying out.
Despite the common wisdom that it is not worth keeping old paint nearby, it is possible to safely store paint and use it for touch-ups even years after the original paint work. Instead, you should store paints and solvents indoors during the winter, whether it's in a storage closet, basement or other place protected by your home's heating system. There may be lumps of paint that can stick on the brush, which will affect the texture of the painted surface. That way, when you go back to the can to do touch-ups, you'll know exactly what color is in each can and how much paint is left.
The paint made of latex is water-based, so it can freeze at the same temperature as water (32 degrees Fahrenheit). You can extend the life of excess paint by storing it properly so that it does not freeze in the future.
