Does the Weather Affect When I Should Paint?

Temperature

• The temperature of both the air and the surface to be painted are important to consider when planning an exterior paint job. High temperatures can speed drying times, causing cracking and flaking in the paint job. Low temperatures have the opposite effect, slowing drying times which leads to compromised paint curing. The optimum temperature range for exterior painting is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and below 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wind

• Windy conditions can damage an exterior paint job by blowing particles against the home, causing them to stick to the wet or tacky paint. Leaf litter and grass clippings can both be blown about in medium to high winds. Pollen particles may also drift into the freshly painted surfaces, marring the paint job. In addition to the threat of particles adhering to painted surface, wind can also cause paint to dry faster than recommended, leading to flaking paint or cracks in the paint surface.

Rain

• If rain showers occur while paint is still wet then pigment can be washed off the painted surface, causing streaking. Paint that is dry to the touch may not have completed the full curing process, leaving the paint job susceptible to runs, streaking or loss of adhesion. It is important to plan a paint job when no rain is forecast for a minimum of 24 hours to prevent rain damage.

Humidity

• High humidity can cause painting problems similar to those associated with rain. Water vapor in the air will condense as temperatures cool over night, causing water droplets to form on the painted surface. These droplets can negatively impact drying times and cause improper paint adhesion, streaks and spots. Moist air can also cause wood surfaces to swell slightly, leading to paint failure as the surfaces dry and contract.