Embarking on an exterior painting project during Edmonton's winter comes with its unique set of challenges. While our winter wonderland may be picturesque, attempting to paint in frigid conditions requires careful consideration. In this blog, we explore the reasons why winter painting can be a challenging endeavor and offer insights into overcoming these obstacles.
Unlike the warmer months, winter poses a dual threat with moisture and temperature playing pivotal roles. Professional painters often avoid winter exterior projects, not due to working conditions but the potential for poor results. The cold temperatures and varying moisture levels can wreak havoc on the paint, causing issues like cracking and color changes. It's a delicate process that demands more than just a winter jacket.
Temperature is a primary concern, making the paint thicker and the curing process delicate. Cold temperatures slow down and unevenly cure the paint, with latex paint facing additional challenges as latex particles harden in the cold, resulting in wasted efforts. Even spray paint is susceptible to cracking when applied in the cold.
Dramatic temperature fluctuations exacerbate the problem. Uneven curing occurs as the paint thickens during the cooling process, leading to blistering and peeling, especially problematic when painting materials like vinyl siding that contract and expand in response to temperature changes.
Moisture, the second major issue, is difficult to control during winter. Rain, dew, and unpredictable weather patterns make it challenging to minimize moisture, leading to discolouring, blushing, and improper drying. The expansion and contraction of water in freezing temperatures can also impact the paint job's quality.
Ultimately, for an exterior paint project we recommend you do so in warmer seasons. However, to mitigate the challenges while the air is still chilly, consider using cold temperature paints designed to cure at lower temperatures, usually around 1.5 degrees Celsius. High-quality products recommended by local paint stores are essential.— Checkout Benjamin Moore’s post about low temp paint products for more.
Patience is key during winter painting. Colder paint requires more time to cure, so allow sufficient time between coats, particularly for alkyd paints. Checking the weather forecast for temperature and moisture is crucial to avoid painting in unfavorable conditions.
Optimal painting times are in warmer seasons between 10 AM and 2 PM when the paint is more malleable. Mixing paint at room temperature is also advisable, as cold paint is harder to mix.
If winter painting is unavoidable, control the elements you can. Scaffolding, environmental controls, tarps, and heaters can provide additional control. Preparation is essential, and don't forget to layer up for the chilly conditions.
While the allure of winter painting may beckon, it's essential to weigh the potential challenges and consider delaying the project until more favorable weather conditions return. For further advice on navigating winter painting projects, feel free to reach out to us
Kickstart your next exterior project! Our experts are ready to guide you through a successful winter planning experience. Get started by calling our team or filling out our online form for a free, no-obligation estimate.
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