Exterior paints react very differently to cold weather. In addition, you also need to know when and how to apply exterior paint during cold weather. The following tips will help you avoid problems such as cracking, bubbling, and color inconsistency while painting your home.

How to Paint Your Exterior in Cold Weather

1. Track the Weather & Sun

During cold months, check the weather forecast and look out for the sun before applying exterior paint. Find out which days and times the sun will be at its peak, and always factor in your drying time. The best time to work during cold days is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This gives you enough time for surfaces to warm up and paints to cure before temperatures drop.

2. Pay Attention to Your Substrate

Before painting, check your substrate's temperature using moisture meters or infrared thermometers, as it can affect the exterior paint's adhesion. Know the acceptable moisture content for different substrates to avoid coating failures such as blistering and peeling. 

3. Use the Correct Tools

Your project's success lies not only on how and when you apply your coating but also on how well you choose your tools. Since paints thicken during the cold season, use stiffer brushes such as those with nylon, polyester, and Chinex® bristles. To make your tools last longer, practice correctly storing and handling your brushes and rollers.

4. Know Your Paints

Your approach to painting your exterior in colder weather will likely differ depending on the kind of paint you use. Alkyd- and oil-based paints thicken in lower temperatures, making it difficult to apply them evenly to your home in cold weather. On the other hand, water-based paints are susceptible to freezing, so you need to mix in an additive with antifreeze agents. 

If you need exterior paint supplies, get in touch with Fairbanks Paint & Glass in Fairbanks, AK. With an inventory including trusted names such as Pratt and Lambert®, Flood®, Kodiak®, and Moosehide®, you can be confident that your home’s surfaces will look great for years. They also offer professional window installation services, and their team of experts can help you choose the windows that work best for your home or business. If you have questions, contact them at (907) 456-7758 or learn more about their paint selection online.