Storing Paint Cans UPSIDE DOWN | DIY Home Improvement Forum

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John Smith_inFL

I have heard it for years and years - to prevent skin over and chunky paint, store the cans upside down. I have been a sign painter for decades and have never done it. been a house painter off and on for over 20 years - and never done it. when I see posts on how to prevent the issue, there are always those that chime in for the upside down storage - but they NEVER show photos of THEIR cans being stored. (so, I am thinking they are just regurgitating what they have heard elsewhere). is there actually a solid foundation to this claim ? does anyone actually do it with beneficial results ? . #1 · Dec 1, 2020 I have heard it for years and years - to prevent skin over and chunky paint, store the cans upside down. I have been a sign painter for decades and have never done it. been a house painter off and on for over 20 years - and never done it. when I see posts on how to prevent the issue, there are always those that chime in for the upside down storage - but they NEVER show photos of THEIR cans being stored. (so, I am thinking they are just regurgitating what they have heard elsewhere). is there actually a solid foundation to this claim ? does anyone actually do it with beneficial results ? . Sort by Oldest first Oldest first Newest first Most reactions #2 · Dec 1, 2020 I've done it on occasion, and it has not worked out well at all. #3 · Dec 2, 2020 I have done it. The skin is then on the bottom. When you open the can and as long as you don't pierce the skin, it is like using a full can. #4 · Dec 2, 2020 I heard the same thing about 30 years ago, @John Smith_inFL and USED to do it regularly. I had MIXED results, haha, sorry, couldn't resist. It worked well for oil-based paints if you weren't storing long term. Latex was a mixed bag. It worked well for some brands, not so well with others. I imagine ingredients in cheaper paints differed a lot from the more expensive paints. The biggest issue was when you flipped the can and opened it up. What a mess. All that paint stuck to the lid. My belief is that it is best to throw in a capful of whatever thinner is appropriate and just store them in a cool place without any sunlight hitting them. So, no storage in garages, attic spaces, etc. I store mine underneath my basement steps and they do just fine. Once in a while a can is compromised because I didn't shut it tight, but, overall, about 90% of what I store is still good after many years. I have one can that has been stored for 26 years. Someday I will open it and see the results! #5 · Dec 2, 2020 I turn my automotive paint upside down and every two week or so I switch it back and so on. Works with automotive paint especially metallic colors. #6 · Dec 3, 2020 (Edited) I never have. I dont doubt it works like they say though. Isnt it just an oil base thing though? I've VERY rarely seen latex skin over. #7 · Dec 3, 2020 If you have made a mess out of the rim and not sure the lid will seal. Shrink wrap the top and an elastic band will keep the air out. #8 · Dec 3, 2020 Well, lids will usually seal, even you need to break out a hammer to do so. THe problem arises if you seal the rim with wet paint in the lip. Thats when it will start rusting. Better to clean the lip as good as you can, then leave uncovered till the lip is dry, then put the lid on it. Insert Quotes Post Reply

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