03 Nov Rainy Weather Painting Questions Answered
Did you have a painting project in mind that you didn’t manage to get completed during the summer season? If so, you’re not alone. Many people wonder about the feasibility of painting in the rain–during the spring or fall, or even on a summer day with precipitation in the forecast.
At Pinnacle Painting, we know you’re eager to get your painting project underway without being waylaid by inclement weather. But when is painting in the rain a viable option, and when is it a recipe for disaster?
Without further ado, here are the answers to our most common rainy weather painting inquiries:
Can I Paint the Exterior of My House in the Rain?
The simple answer is no. Fresh paint and rain don’t mix. Raindrops can create streaks and drips in fresh paint and splash permanent colour all over your property. Also, paint won’t adhere properly to a wet surface and may peel, crack, or bubble prematurely. There’s no easy fix for a water-damaged paint job, so you’ll usually have to just cut your losses and start again. Not fun.
While a massive plastic enclosure may do the trick, it’s usually an expensive, labour-intensive, and unreliable option. At Pinnacle Painting, we recommend watching the weather forecast and waiting for a day with no precipitation in the forecast.
How Long Does Paint Have To Dry Before It Can Safely Get Rained On?
It depends on the type of paint you’re using, plus other conditions. Latex paint typically requires a minimum of two hours of direct sunlight before it’s completely dry; oil-based paints need longer. In warmer temperatures, letting paint dry for six hours should be sufficient, but twenty-four is even better.
Remember that drying time also depends on temperature. Paint will dry more slowly at cooler temperatures, and some paints won’t adhere well below certain temperatures, so always remember to check the specs of the specific paint you’re using. In addition, remember to consider the amount of humidity in the air as well as the amount of shade your surfaces receive. These are all factors that can impact the paint-drying process.
Just because paint feels dry doesn’t mean it’s ready for rain. Follow best practices to avoid a messy (and pricey) situation.
How Long Do You Have To Wait Before You Can Paint After Rain?
Four hours would be a minimum, but there’s no magic number. Ultimately, you need a completely dry and clean surface in order for paint to adhere effectively. Consider the dampness of the material you’re painting (e.g., vinyl siding vs. wood shingles), the current temperature, and features like joints, nail holes, or cracks that may retain water longer.
What About Interior Painting in the Rain?
Interior painting is usually completely fine on a rainy day. That being said, remember that drying times may be extended on humid days, and be sure to plan ahead for airflow and ventilation; opening your windows when it’s raining may not be the best plan if you’ve got fresh paint nearby.
Looking for a Winnipeg painter? At Pinnacle Painting, we’ve got experience with painting in every season and type of weather. Give us a call today!