Elena Rossi
The attic is a common storage area for many people, but it is important to know what should not be stored there. The answer depends on the type of paint, the temperature in the attic, and whether the paint is stored in a temperature-controlled environment. Attics are prone to changing temperatures, which can cause damage to certain items. Oil-based paints are highly flammable and should not be stored in an attic. Latex paints can break down under extreme temperatures, and paints with a recommended storage temperature of 60-75 °F or ~15-23°C should not be stored in attics that exceed these temperatures. Humidity, pests, and light can also damage items in the attic.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint type | Oil-based paints, latex paints, and acrylic paints |
| Temperature | Extreme temperatures can ruin paint |
| Humidity | High humidity can destroy paint |
| Ventilation | Poor ventilation can lead to hazardous fumes |
| Flammability | Paint and other flammable items should not be stored in the attic |
| Pests | Pests can damage paint containers |
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What You'll Learn
Paint freezing is worse than high temperatures
While it may be tempting to store paint in the attic, it is not advisable due to the extreme temperature changes that can occur in this space. These temperature fluctuations can ruin the paint, making it unusable. Specifically, latex paints can break down under extreme temperatures.
Now, is paint freezing worse than high temperatures? Yes, for several reasons. Firstly, oil-based paints are extremely unlikely to freeze in a garage or shed, even withstanding the lowest recorded temperatures in the continental US. Secondly, while latex paints can freeze at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, they can sometimes be salvaged by stirring the paint to recombine the resins. On the other hand, high temperatures can destroy paint. For instance, Golden Acrylics recommends storing their paints between 60-75 °F (~15-23°C), as higher temperatures can ruin the paint.
Additionally, when oil-based paint freezes, it becomes thicker and more viscous, making it difficult to apply. Water-based paint, on the other hand, can have its texture and consistency ruined by freezing temperatures, resulting in a clumpy and grainy mess even after thawing. This can lead to an uneven and defective paint application, with bubbles and inconsistencies in the final coat.
Therefore, it is best to store paint in a temperature-controlled environment, such as a spare cabinet, basement, or closet, rather than in an attic or garage, to avoid both freezing and extremely high temperatures.
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Humidity and heat can ruin photos and documents
Attics are located at the top of a property, making them prone to changing temperatures throughout the year. This can cause humidity, which is more common in old properties with unfinished attics or poor insulation.
Humidity and heat can indeed ruin photos and documents. The ideal relative humidity (RH) for storing photos is 40%, with humidity levels above 50% causing oxidation, the spread of fungus, and fading. Humidity levels below 30% can cause photos to become brittle and shrink unevenly. Fluctuations between high and low humidity levels can also cause photos to become damaged.
High temperatures increase chemical reactions and lead to the deterioration of photographs. Heat causes the image to separate from the paper base support, while humidity forces photos to stick together. Prolonged exposure to heat can also cause photos to fade and crack.
To prevent damage to photos and documents, store them in a dry area with consistent temperature and humidity levels, away from pests and sources of water damage. Avoid attics, basements, and other areas without temperature control. Interior closets and under beds are good options for storage. Use proper photograph storage that provides support and protection, such as PVC-free plastic sleeves and archival-quality paper boxes.
If photos are damaged by water or humidity, they can be saved with some effort and patience. If a photo is only slightly damp, hang it in a room with good airflow, avoiding direct sunlight. If the photo is wet, blot it with a clean, dry cloth, place it between absorbent paper, and weigh it down with a heavy object to remove moisture. Once dry, use a soft pencil eraser to gently rub away any water stains. If stains persist, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. You can also scan and save photos digitally, ensuring that precious memories are never lost.
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Flammable items are a fire hazard in attics
Attics are located at the top of a property, making them prone to changing temperatures throughout the year. Extreme heat can cause humidity, especially in old properties with unfinished attics or poor insulation. This can ruin paint, making it unusable. Oil-based paints are highly flammable, and latex paints can break down under extreme temperatures.
Flammable items such as kerosene heaters, oil lamps, certain cleaning products, aerosol sprays, and batteries should not be stored in attics. High temperatures in the summertime can cause these items to explode and become a fire hazard. Always store batteries and other flammable items in a well-ventilated area, such as a garage, basement, or outhouse, and keep them away from stoves or fireplaces.
In addition to the risk of fire, storing flammable items in the attic can create other issues. Toxic household cleaning or maintenance products can off-gas into their environment, releasing harmful chemicals into the air. Temperature changes can also alter the colour of paint, and water damage can cause paint cans to rust.
To keep your belongings safe, it is recommended to store flammable items in a climate-controlled area away from heat sources and open flames. This will help prevent fires and maintain the quality of your possessions.
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Food and perishables spoil in attics
Attics are located at the top of a property, making them prone to changing temperatures throughout the year. Extreme heat can cause humidity, especially in old properties with unfinished or poorly insulated attics. This can cause food and perishables to spoil.
Perishable foods are those that spoil or "go bad" quickly if they are not stored at certain temperatures. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), perishable foods spoil, decay, or become dangerous to eat unless refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or frozen at 0°F (-17°C) or below. Examples of perishable foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, meat, and cooked foods. These items should be stored in a refrigerator or freezer to maintain their quality and safety.
Storing perishable food in an attic can lead to spoilage due to temperature fluctuations and humidity. The heat can essentially cook your food, causing it to spoil faster and become unsafe for consumption. Additionally, pests such as mice and insects may be attracted to the food, leading to further issues.
It is important to note that even canned and tinned goods can be affected by temperature changes and humidity in the attic, causing them to spoil faster than expected. Therefore, it is recommended to store food, drinks, and other perishables in sealed containers or boxes in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet.
By avoiding the storage of food and perishables in the attic and opting for more suitable locations, you can prevent spoilage and maintain the quality and safety of your food items.
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Wood is susceptible to damage in attics
Wood is highly susceptible to damage in attics due to the extreme and fluctuating temperatures, high humidity, and moisture. The heat in attics can cause wooden beams to sweat and bleed sap, which can then harden and crystallize. This sap is a sticky combination of sugar and water that attracts dust, dirt, and pests such as fruit flies. The heat can also cause the chemicals in wood to react and create internal pressure, resulting in expansion or warping of the wood. These changes in temperature and humidity can also cause wooden instruments and furniture to crack over time.
Additionally, attics tend to accumulate dust, and high humidity can lead to mould and mildew problems, further damaging wooden items. Cardboard boxes used for storage can absorb moisture, ruining their contents. The extreme conditions in attics can also cause delicate fabrics and painted decor to deteriorate.
To mitigate these issues, proper insulation and ventilation are crucial. Engineered hardwood, laminate, and plywood are recommended for attic flooring as they are more resistant to moisture and scratches than natural wood.
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Frequently asked questions
No, paint is negatively affected by high temperatures in the summer and ruined by freezing cold temperatures in the winter. Oil paints are highly flammable and latex paints can break down under extreme temperatures.
Any perishables can easily spoil from humid temperatures during the summer months. Tinned goods will spoil and drinks will likely go flat.
Important documents, such as birth certificates, tax forms, passports, and other paperwork, should be kept in a designated spot in your home office or bedroom. Attics are prone to water damage and high temperatures can cause paper to deteriorate more quickly.
Old photographs are also susceptible to damage from heat and humidity. Humidity can cause photos to stick together and mould can cause them to curl up and become damaged.
It's best not to store anything valuable in the attic. Changes in temperature and humidity can damage items such as books, artwork, and electronics.
