Can paint go bad? Learn to look for these signs and remember tips for storing your paint.
Storing leftover paint can be useful for touch-ups or future projects, but how long does paint actually last? At Columbia Paint, we’re here to answer your questions about whether paint can go bad and how to handle old paint.
Can Latex Paint Go Bad?
Latex paint has a relatively long shelf life if stored properly. Unopened latex paint cans can last up to 10 years, while opened cans may last about 2-5 years. Proper storage involves keeping the paint in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
Can Oil-Based Paint Go Bad?
Oil-based paint often have a longer shelf life compared to latex paint. Unopened cans of oil-based paint can last up to 15 years, and opened cans can last for about ten years if stored correctly. Store oil-based paint in a tightly sealed container, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Oil-based paint can go bad if contaminated or not sealed properly. Indicators of bad oil-based paint include a rancid odor, a thick, rubbery texture, or the presence of a skin or film on the surface. If you observe these signs, the paint is no longer usable.
Does Primer Go Bad?
Primers, like paint, have a shelf life. Unopened cans of primer can last up to 3-5 years, while opened cans may last around two years if stored properly. Store primers in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly sealed.
Spoiled primers will show similar signs to spoiled paint, such as a foul odor, separation of components, or a chunky consistency. If the primer doesn’t mix smoothly or smells strange, it’s time to dispose of it.
How To Tell When Paint Has Gone Bad
- Odor: Fresh paint has a mild, pleasant smell. Bad paint will have a sour, rancid, or foul odor.
- Texture: Good paint should be smooth and consistent. Lumpy, chunky, or rubbery textures indicate spoilage.
- Separation: While some separation is normal, paint that doesn’t mix back together smoothly after stirring has likely gone bad.
- Mold or Mildew: The presence of mold or mildew on the paint’s surface is a clear sign that it’s no longer usable.
How Can I Get Rid of Old Paint?
- Check Local Regulations: Disposal regulations for paint vary by location. Check with your local waste management facility for specific guidelines.
- Hazardous Waste Collection: Oil-based paints and primers should be taken to a hazardous waste disposal facility. Many communities offer hazardous waste collection days.
- Donate: If the paint is still in good condition but you no longer need it, consider donating it to local community centers, schools, or theater groups.
Paint can indeed go bad, but understanding the shelf life and proper storage can help you make the most of your leftover paint. Look for signs of spoilage, and dispose of old paint responsibly. At Columbia Paint, we offer high-quality paints and expert advice to ensure your painting projects are always a success. Visit our store or contact us today for more paint storage and disposal information!
NEW LOCATIONS! VISIT THE US AND EXPLORE!
We’ve moved from the Dobbin Road location to our new, roomy location just down the road:
Columbia Paint and Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer
6822 Oak Hall Lane, Suite C2, Columbia, MD 21045
443-319-4001
Expect the same one-stop shopping for all your decorating needs. We are a full-service Benjamin Moore dealer offering the best quality decorating products at the best prices. We have an ample supply of paint and paint supplies, wallcoverings, custom window treatments, fabrics, and now NEW flooring selections from Kaleen Rugs and Luxury Vinyl Tile samples.
And, of course, the same excellent customer service, knowledge, and customer satisfaction that you’ve come to expect.
ANNOUNCING OUR SECOND LOCATION:
Clarksville Paint & Decorating, a Benjamin Moore Dealer
12447 Clarksville Pike, Suite 1A, Clarksville, MD