Residential painting is a little like a big family dinner: no matter how well you plan, there are always going to be leftovers. The next question is, what should you do with those leftovers?
While some homeowners are tempted to (properly) dispose of the bits left in cans, we have a different alternative to offer.
3 Reasons To Hang Onto Your Leftover Paint
We suggest you keep (and treasure) the extra paint. Why? Well, it can be put to a number of good uses.
- Life Happens – Especially if kids or pets are involved, you’ll need that extra paint at some point. Trust us. From furniture rearranging debacles to flying toys, having a perfect paint match stored in the basement or garage can be a lifesaver.
- A Guaranteed Match – As we touched on above, it’s nice to know that matching paint is on-hand. And, not only because of touch-ups, but also to remember what colors were used on the walls for the next time you paint, or if you want to color-match in another room.
- Small-Scale Projects – If you wake up and your creative juices are really flowing, you might want to paint an accent wall, piece of furniture, or other decorative item. Painting this accent piece the same color as is used in another room will create a nice point of connection, tying your palette together.
5 Tips for Storing Your Paint
Paint is only useful if it’s stored well. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- Stretch a piece of plastic over the can before you tap the lid into place. This adds to the seal, locking in that essential freshness.
- Don’t open your lid with a screwdriver. This may be the go-to technique, but it actually mangles the lip where the lid sits. Invest a couple of dollars in a tool that is specifically designed for the job.
- Gently tap the lid into place with a rubber mallet, or a hammer wrapped in a rag. Don’t pound it like you’re building a railroad.
- Write the color and code on a strip of masking tape and stick this to the lid. Drips can find their way down the side of the can, obscuring the details you need.
- Store in a cool, dry place, and not directly on a floor. Cans that sit on a concrete garage or basement floor can fall prey to the moisture that is transferred through the surface, rusting the can over time.
We hope these practical tips help you make the very most of your next round of leftovers! And, if you have any further questions about your Westchester or Fairfield County house painting project, please be sure to contact us at A.G. Williams Painting Company.