How Long Does a Spray Paint Last?
If you are wondering how long does a spray paint last? The answer is in this blog post, we are going to discuss that.
Spray paint is a popular choice for many DIY projects, but have you ever noticed how long a spray paint lasts? While spray paints are designed to have a longer shelf life compared to other industrial products, they do have an expiration date indicated on the can.
How long does spray paint last?
Unlike powder coats or traditional liquid paint, a spray paint lasts a few years. However, top-quality brands can remain usable for up to 10 years, which is great news if you have regular painting projects and want to work within a tight budget.
What Can Affect a Spray Paint Expiration?
Now, let’s explore why spray paint expires soon and becomes unusable.
- Environmental Factors:Temperature plays a significant role in the longevity of a spray paint. Storing paint in hot environments can lead to faster drying and cracking, causing it unsuitable for use. On the other hand, colder temperatures can cause shrinkage and slow down the drying process due to higher humidity levels.
- Relative Humidity:High humidity levels in the air can partially dry the spray paint, making it sticky and challenging to work with. Spray paint is formulated to dry faster when exposed to air, but excessive humidity can result in a lumpy finish.
- Excessive Sunlight:If a spray paint is exposed to sunlight for an extended period, it can break down the chemical compounds within it. This can cause the paint to lose its colour, dry up, and become breakable. It’s important to protect your spray paint from excessive sunlight exposure.
- Loss of Aerosol Pressure: When using spray paint, some of the aerosol pressure escapes through the nozzle with each use. This means that the more you use the paint, the more likely it is that the aerosol pressure will be depleted, even if the paint is of high quality. This can lead to the sooner expiring of a spray paint.
- Chemical Interactions and External Environment: a spray paint can be affected by chemical interactions with ultraviolet lights, heat, or other substances. Additionally, if external particles and contaminants find their way into the paint can, they can mix with the paint formula and alter its quality. However, the good news is that modern spray paints are specifically designed with top-notch ingredients and protective measures to prevent these problems. With these advancements, you can have greater confidence in the durability and longevity of your spray paint.
How to make a Spray Paint Last Longer?
To extend the lifespan of your spray paint and make it last longer, here are a few tips:
- Shake It Up: Before using a new can of spray paint, give it a thorough shake. This simple step ensures that all the ingredients are well mixed, resulting in even colour separation and consistent coverage when you apply the paint.
- Store Smart: To preserve the quality of your spray paint, store the cans in a controlled environment. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can lead to leaks and reduced paint quality. Instead, opt for cool or room-temperature areas to prevent fuel expansion inside the can. This ensures better performance for a longer time. Keeping the paint at 30°C or above is ideal for preserving its quality and preventing early corruption.
- Finish half-done Cans: If you find yourself with used cans of spray paint after a project, try to use them before they expire. When leftover paint is exposed to air and surfaces repeatedly, it can undergo oxidation, causing a colour change from its original shade.
Before using spray paint, it’s important to carefully read and comprehend the specifications listed on the label to ensure proper usage.
If the house paint starts reducing or flowing inconsistently, try placing the can in warm water for a few minutes to restore consistency.
By following these easy tips, you can ensure the stability of your spray paint and maintain its optimal performance when tackling your next painting project.
Now you have found out how long spray paint lasts. If you want to avoid having a DIY project, Auspaint Sydney is your best partner for all your spray paint or rolling paint needs.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
