Exterior painting in cold weather

exterioroil-based-paintpaintweather

I just read the instructions on my oil-based primer that say dries in 5-9 hrs at 70F. I would like to use it to prime some exterior metal. The temps will soon be below freezing and snow is possible within 12 hrs. Under this kind of weather forecast, is it considered preferable not to use oil-based primer/paint and wait for warmer weather? I would like it not to snow on my fresh oil paint job.

Best Answer

It's usually not recommended to apply any sort of paint (or adhesive) if it's below roughly 40°F.

Check your paint can for a minimum temperature.

Sure you can apply it if the temp is below that, but it may take forever to dry and probably won't last very long. If it's cold enough, it might just freeze in the can or on the brush while you're actually painting.

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