Best Way to Store Paint and Coatings and Mix for Use

Properly storing paints and coatings and correctly preparing them for use are key to an attractive and long-lasting finish. Using the right paint and coating storage techniques will extend shelf life and maintain quality for future use. Proper stirring will ensure the components, which may have separated during storage, are mixed in the correct ratio. Let's talk about the best way to store paint and coatings and give you tips on how to mix paint and coatings for use.

The Best Place to Store Paint and Coatings

Choosing the right location to store paint and coatings is important. Coatings should always be placed in a cool and dry area where the temperature remains relatively consistent.

Ideal Storage Temperature for Paint and Coatings

Paint and coatings are best kept out of direct sunlight and in a location that’s temperature controlled. The best paint and coating storage temperature is between 50-80F.

Storing Paint in a Garage

A garage is commonly chosen as a place to store paint and coatings. However, this can be a bad choice as most garages see drastic temperature ranges and are not cool or dry. Fluctuations in temperature can cause the paint to deteriorate or separate.

What if a Stored Paint or Coating Freezes?

We hear from customers concerned that their stored KBS paint or coating might be ruined because it froze during storage or delivery. However, freezing poses no problems as KBS products have all been formulated to withstand freezing without compromising performance after thawed. Simply get the coating to room temperature and stir well before use.

Tips for Restoring a Frozen Paint or Coating

• Bring the paint or coating to room temperature naturally.
• Mix the components together by stirring.

KBS #1 Thinner can freeze. Allow the KBS #1 Thinner to thaw and bring it to room temperature before using.

The Best Way to Mix Paint

Stored paint or coatings need to be properly mixed before use to ensure the components are homogeneous with no clumping and in the correct ratio. This is very important for the best uniform sheen and finish. The most complete mixing is obtained by using the KBS Hurricane Paint Mixer attached to a variable speed drill.

How to Stir a Paint or Coating

• Stir paint thoroughly for several minutes to obtain an even mixture.
• The most complete mixing is obtained by using the KBS Hurricane Paint Mixer attached to a variable speed drill.
• While most people stir with a side-to-side circular motion, it’s far more effective to stir with an upward motion. Use a paint paddle and repeatedly touch the bottom of the can and stir upward to disperse any settled pigments and/or matting agents.
• For the best end results, continue to stir often during painting.

Tips for Storing Leftover Paint

When storing unused paint or coatings in a can the following steps should be taken to extend their shelf life and maintain quality for future use.

Clean the Rim of the Can

Before sealing the can, wipe the rim clean with a cloth or paper towel to remove any paint or coating residue that could interfere with the seal. This will help to seal the can tightly.

KBS Paint Saver

To keep and preserve leftover paints, coatings, and clear coats from skinning over during long-term storage in the original can, KBS Paint Saver should be used. KBS Paint Saver is a proven paint preserver that works by displacing air in the can with argon and nitrogen gases, which are heavier than air. When sprayed into the can these gases lay on top of the paint or coating to keep moisture and oxygen away. This keeps the paint or coating from hardening over time. Paint Saver can save you money by allowing use of the entire can of paint.

• Place a piece of plastic bag or plastic sheeting on top of the paint can.
• Hold the paint can lid closely above the paint can and using the included spray straw, spray KBS Paint Saver under the plastic sheeting and towards the side of the paint can to avoid splashing. Don’t insert the straw into the paint or coating.
• Spray KBS Paint Saver 2 seconds for quart cans or less and 4 seconds for gallon cans.
• Close can lid immediately.

Seal the Paint Can

Make sure the paint can is properly sealed. Use a rubber mallet to gently hammer the lid in place to create an airtight seal. If the can is damaged or the lid no longer seals properly, consider transferring the paint to a new container (steel or glass) with a tight-fitting lid.

Questions About How to Store Paint and Coatings?

If you have questions about storing paints and coatings, please let us know. +Contact KBS Coatings.