Handyman

For years, many people have mistakenly believed the myth that you cannot paint outside during the winter. While in many states, due to freezing temperatures and harsh weather conditions, it is difficult to apply any kind of paint outside, it is simply not true in milder climates like we have here in central Texas. In fact, a long-lasting paint job is easier to achieve in winter rather than during the hot, humid conditions of summer.

Over the last several years the paint industry has formulated latex paints to dry in temperatures below 40 degrees. Damp surfaces are not a problem either. Since latex paints are water-based, the same drying agents that help to dry out the water in the paint will also help dry a damp surface after the paint is applied.

The winter painting myth also dates from a time when all of the paint products were oil-based. If it was too cold outside, the paints would sag before they could dry. This was because the oil in the paints took too long to dry out and set up. Oil-based paints would also lock in the moisture on a surface and eventually the paint would crack as the water tried to escape.

Latex paints were developed several decades ago to help alleviate these and other problems. They were easier to apply, dried quicker with less vapor emission, and could be used in moist conditions. The original water-based vinyl latexes did not last as long as good oil enamel, but all that has changed.

Over the last couple of decades the EPA laws have forced the paint industry to reformulate oil-based paints because many of the chemicals in their make-up were just too harsh for the environment. In the process of making oil-based paints safer, they also made them less effective. In contrast, latex paints have been steadily improving. In most conditions, they now last longer than oil paints have ever lasted.

When you combine the much-improved paint formulations available today with the mild winter temperatures in central Texas, it is easy to understand why painting your home during the winter is not only possible, it is preferable. So if you were thinking about waiting until spring or summer to have your home painted or deck re-conditioned, reconsider. Take advantage of the winter!

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