Paint is not meant to last forever, paint goes bad quite easily when it is not stored or sealed properly. Spray paint, canned paint, and even paint primer all have a lifespan of when they are at their best. Not only can expired paint become toxic, but it will not yield the best results if you apply it to your walls past its prime. If you want your home to look and feel its best, knowing the signs of bad paint will help you remove it from your home. This blog will share the typical lifespans of paint products and what to look for when paint goes bad.
Different Types Of Paint And Their Lifespan
Many painting experts estimate that paint can go bad in two to fifteen years. That is a wide span, so knowing what type of paint you have and the signs that indicate expired paint will help you narrow down the shelf life.
Latex
Latex paint can last up to ten years before it goes bad. Keeping your paint in a cool and dry place, and making sure it is sealed or resealed properly will keep it from going bad too soon. A resealed can of paint can go bad quickly as bacteria can enter the paint are grow. Bacteria starts to break down the compounds in the paint which can cause it to peel from a surface or have discolorated streaks when applied in your home. Lower VOC paints are also more prone to bacteria growth.
Checking your paint for signs of deterioration before painting will ensure that your interior or exterior paint job looks professional. Using bad paint will not only make your home an unhealthy place to live, but it can also change the way your home looks.
Oil
These paints can last for more than a decade, especially when they are unopened. Oil paints can last up to 15 years when they are unopened. Although these paints will last longer, they have higher VOC counts than latex paints, which makes them slightly more toxic when being painted in a home but helps to preserve the paint for longer. If you purchase oil paint, ensure that you paint with proper ventilation to prevent sickness.
Paint Primer
The primer that you use to ensure proper adherence of paint to a surface, can also turn bad. Primer has a shelf-life of two to three years, which is significantly shorter than other common types of paint. Primers that have gone bad will not be effective in helping the paint stick to your walls and can cause even brand-new paint to look streaky or bubbly.
What Are The Signs Of Bad Paint?
- Odor: Expired paint emits an unpleasant odor that is similar to mildew or rotting eggs. If your paint smells off, it is better to air on the side of caution and dispose of it. Fresh paint also has an odor, but it starts to dissipate as it dries, this is why ventilation is crucial during a painting project to limit toxic fumes.
- Changes in consistency: If the paint can have lumpy paint, thinning paint, or a film developed on the top, these are all indicators of bad paint. The paint should have a smooth consistency and should be easy to stir.
- The paint has separated: The different components in the paint can start to separate. If any amount of stirring will not return the paint to its original consistency or blend to create the right color, it is no longer usable.
- Mold growth: Paints with mold or mildew growth are no longer usable. The paint has been spoiled and can cause sickness or illness if applied in a home or business.
- Lumpy or clumps, even after stirring: Any type of paint will become hard to mix or become clumpy when it is past its prime. These are clear signs that your paint is no longer usable.
- Past expiration date: If the printed expiration date on the paint has passed, you should be cautious when using the paint. The expiration date is not always 100% accurate, but it does reflect the average lifetime of the specific type of paint. If the paint has passed the expiration date, but has no other signs of deterioration, it can be safe to paint with.
How To Dispose Of Old Paint
Old paint can be toxic, so it is important to dispose of it properly. You will need to dry out the paint away from children and pets and toss it in your trash bin. If this isn’t an option you could donate it (only if it is usable) or seal it back up and take it to a hazardous waste facility in your area. Disposing of paint properly will prevent it from contaminating the environment or poisoning animals or water sources.
Services From American Town Painting
When it comes to painting a home, worrying about the expiration date of your paint can slow down the process. American Town Painting can help restore or elevate your space without the hassle. We use quality paint and tools to help ensure a smooth coat. Reach out to our team to learn more about the services we offer and get an estimate for your next painting project.