Rain is the enemy when you’re planning on painting your home exteriors. That being said, there are some things you still need to keep in mind when you’re painting under the sweltering heat of the summer sun. Heed these tips to help avoid paint problems and make working outside during tag-init a little more bearable.
1. Thin Paint When Necessary
When the temperature gets too hot, certain paints can thicken due to increased evaporation. Solvent-based paints in particular are prone to this. Paint that’s too thick can be more difficult to apply and leave you with brush marks on your surface.
When this happens, you can opt to thin your paint until you get a consistency that’s easier to work with. Just remember to use the appropriate thinning solvent for the paint you’re using.
If you’re not sure what type of thinner or reducer should be mixed with your paint, head to the Boysen website (Boysen.com.ph). There you’ll be able to find the technical info on all of Boysen’s products including each of its appropriate thinning solvent.
2. Seal and Store Paint Properly
Hot weather can also affect stored leftover paint. For example, alkyd-based paints like Boysen Quick Drying Enamel are more prone to skinning when they are improperly sealed and stored amid high temperatures like during the summertime.
Skinning is when a thin film forms on top of paint in its container. Prolonged exposure of this type of paint to air and moisture triggers oxidation on the surface, forming the insoluble film. If this happens to you, you’ll still be able to use your paint (provided it’s not accompanied by other problems like a foul smell). Before using, you’ll need to completely remove the solid film and thoroughly mix the paint.
Remember, if you’re storing paint, always properly seal your leftover cans and keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture.
3. Avoid Heat Exhaustion
This has less to do with the paint and more to do with you, the painter. Philippine summers can get brutal. If you’re spending a whole day outside, you will need to be wary of heat exhaustion.
If you’re working directly under the heat of the sun, remember to take breaks and to keep hydrated. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes too. Be strategic about how you work as well. You can start early in the morning when it’s cooler. Take a break at noon during the hottest time of the day and resume your painting in the afternoon.
Happy painting and keep safe!
If you have any questions or inquiries about Boysen products, our technical team will be happy to assist you. Send an email to ask@myboysen.com or call (02) 8363-9738 local 413 to 418 during office hours for a one-on-one consultation.
