Elena Rossi
The attic is a common storage area for many households, but it is not always the best place to store certain items. Some items can be damaged by the changing temperatures and humidity levels in attics, while others may be at risk of attracting pests or being chewed up by critters. So, is it okay to store paint in the attic?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Oil paints, latex paints, acrylic paints |
| Storage temperature | 60-75 °F or ~15-23°C |
| Effect of temperature | Paint can break down under extreme temperatures, making it unusable |
| Effect of freezing | Paint freezes and becomes unusable |
| Effect of humidity | Paint can be ruined by humidity |
| Storage location | Store paint indoors in a cool place away from any gas-related sources |
| Storage container | Store paint in an airtight container |
| Other | Keep the threads on the mouths of paint tubes, jars and bottles, as well as from the caps and lids clean |
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What You'll Learn
Paint freezing is worse than high temperatures
Paint freezing is considered worse than exposing it to high temperatures. While high temperatures can ruin paint, freezing temperatures can ruin certain types of paint, such as water-based paint, and the impact of freezing on paint is often irreversible.
Water-based or latex paints contain water, and when exposed to freezing temperatures, the water in the paint freezes, ruining the texture and consistency of the paint. Even when the paint thaws, it won't work as it did before freezing. The paint may appear clumpy and lumpy, and while stirring can help recombine the resins and somewhat salvage the paint, the paint quality will be compromised.
Oil-based paints, on the other hand, can withstand freezing temperatures. Oil-based house paints can tolerate almost any recorded temperature in the continental US. They contain alkyd resin and a petroleum product, such as naphtha, which has a very low melting point.
While high temperatures can also ruin paint, some paints can withstand such conditions. For instance, oil-based paints can withstand temperatures of up to 90°F. Additionally, the impact of high temperatures on paint may be reversible to some extent by moving the paint to a cooler location.
Therefore, it is recommended to store paint in a temperature-controlled environment, such as a closet or cabinet, to avoid both high and low temperatures.
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Recommended storage temperatures
Paint should be stored at temperatures ranging from 10°C to 27°C. The ideal temperature range is between 15°C and 23°C. These temperatures ensure that the paint does not freeze or separate, which can occur if the paint is stored below 0°C.
It is best to store paint in a cool, dry, and stable environment, such as a hallway or closet, where the temperature does not fluctuate drastically. Avoid storing paint in areas with extreme temperature changes, such as garages, attics, or basements, as these environments can cause the paint to degrade faster.
Additionally, keep the paint cans tightly sealed to prevent air from entering and causing the paint to dry or form a skin. Label the paint cans with the date of purchase and intended use to keep track of their age and purpose.
If you must store paint in a van or attic during winter, ensure the space is heated or insulated to prevent the paint from freezing.
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Humidity and heat damage
High temperatures can cause lap marks and paint drying too fast, leading to chipping and peeling. If the paint is in direct sunlight, the outermost layer can dry faster than the underlayer, causing heat bubbles that may burst and peel. The ultraviolet rays from the sun may also bleach the colour, making repairs more difficult.
Humidity is another factor that can cause issues with stored paint. High humidity can slow down drying times, and in extreme cases, the paint may not hold and may run before it dries. This can also happen when painting metal, as moisture from the air condenses on the surface, creating a barrier between the surface and the paint.
For interior painting projects, high humidity can cause similar issues with drying times, leading to blotchy finishes and reduced adhesion. This can result in paint cracking, peeling, or blistering over time. Humidity can also cause streaking and other defects, such as bubbling.
While some sources suggest that humidity does not affect regular paints, it can impact the use of spray cans, affecting the smoothness of results. However, other sources suggest that humidity above 70% can cause issues even with regular paints, leading to longer drying times and sticky surfaces.
Overall, it is important to consider the potential effects of heat and humidity when storing paint in an attic. While some paints may be more resistant to these conditions than others, the extreme temperatures and high humidity can cause damage and negatively impact the quality and longevity of the paint.
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Flammable items
Storing flammable items in the attic should be avoided. If you choose to do so, it is essential to follow the strict storage requirements to prevent fires.
Firstly, it is important to use the correct containers for storing flammable liquids. Only approved containers and portable tanks shall be used for the storage and handling of flammable liquids. Approved safety cans or Department of Transportation-approved containers should be used for flammable liquids in quantities of 5 gallons or less. For quantities of 1 gallon or less, the original container may be used for storage.
Secondly, the storage location of flammable liquids is crucial. They should be stored in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and high shelves. Flammable liquids should not be stored in areas used for exits, stairways, or safe passageways. If stored outside a flammable storage cabinet, use approved safety cans.
Additionally, the quantity of flammable liquids stored is significant. Generally, larger quantities are kept in tanks, intermediate bulk containers, or drums, while smaller quantities used at workstations are kept in containers of 5 gallons or less. For Category 1, 2, and/or 3 flammable liquids, not more than 60 gallons should be stored in any one storage cabinet, and no more than three such cabinets may be located in a single storage area. Quantities exceeding this should be stored in an inside storage room.
Furthermore, it is essential to maintain a safe distance between flammable liquids and other materials. Flammable liquids should be stored at least 25 feet away from oxidizers and water-reactive materials. When stored with other materials, incompatible substances should be separated by at least 20 feet or by a partition. Flammable liquids should also be kept away from combustible materials such as cardboard, paper towels, sawdust, and debris, which can fuel a fire.
Lastly, proper handling techniques are vital when transferring flammable liquids. Bonding and grounding techniques should be employed to prevent the buildup of static electricity and the potential for a spark that could cause a flash fire. Containers of flammable liquids must be kept closed when not in use to prevent vapour buildup, which could lead to fires or explosions.
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Cardboard boxes
When painting on cardboard, it is advisable to apply multiple thin coats of paint rather than a single thick coat. This helps prevent the cardboard from warping due to excessive moisture. Allow sufficient drying time between coats, and ensure the paint is completely dry before handling the box or storing items inside it.
The attic's temperature and humidity conditions can significantly impact the paint and the cardboard box. Paint is best stored in a cool, dry environment, with consistent temperatures that do not reach freezing. On the other hand, cardboard boxes are susceptible to damage from extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity levels. Over time, changes in humidity can cause cardboard to swell and contract, leading to cracks and deterioration.
Additionally, consider the weight of the paint when storing it in a cardboard box. Paint cans can be heavy, especially when stored in bulk, and a sturdy cardboard box may be required to bear the weight without sagging or tearing. It is recommended to use thick, sturdy corrugated cardboard boxes for storage rather than thin cardboard, which may become soggy from the paint.
Lastly, ensure that the cardboard box is properly sealed and protected from the elements. This is particularly important if the paint within the box has not completely dried or if there is a risk of leakage. A well-sealed box can also help prevent dust and insects from contaminating the paint.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not recommended to store paint in the attic. Paint is negatively affected by high temperatures in the summer and ruined by freezing cold temperatures in the winter. Changes in temperature can alter the colour of your paint, and water damage can rust the can.
Oil-based paints are highly flammable and should not be stored in the attic. Latex paints can break down under extreme temperatures, making them unusable.
Paint should be stored in a cool, dry, temperature-controlled environment. It is recommended to store paint cans above the floor, such as on shelves, and to keep them away from gas-related sources.
