Raheela

Last month I decided to spray paint the new ceramic pots I bought for my Purple Heart plants. Since I already had a can of ice blue spray paint that I purchased 4 years ago, I decided I didn’t need a new one. But as I started painting, I realized the color was much darker, and the nozzle kept giving up on me. That’s when I realized that my spray paint had expired.

Yes, usually spray paint expires in 2-3 years, but the duration varies between brands. The best way to determine whether your spray paint has expired is to check the expiration date on the bottom of the can.

Sometimes, you will find that your paint hasn’t expired, but it’s still not giving the same results as before. That’s because spray paints can go bad even before their expiration date if not stored properly. With my help, you can learn how to get the most out of your spray paint investment.

Does Paint Have An Expiration Date?

Many DIY enthusiasts have different colors of spray paint lying around in their garages. However, before you start using them for a new project, you should check their expiration date.

Every spray paint has an expiration date that you can check at the bottom of the can. Usually, every can has two dates: production and expiry, and if you look closely, you can easily identify both. The expiry date is generally written as Month/ Day/ Year. So if your paint expires on July 1, 2023, it will be printed as 7/1/23.

How To Know If Spray Paint Is Expired?

The spray paint expiration date is the most effective way to determine if your spray paint has gone bad. However, inappropriate storage conditions can also cause an adverse chemical reaction in the paint and affect its consistency.

The following are telltale signs that your spray paint can has expired:

• The paint has turned a different color than when it was new.
• The nozzle of the can is clogged or rusty.
• The paint has started to separate.
• The application is not smooth, and the nozzle keeps clogging up as you spray.

Does Spray Paint Go Bad Before Expiry?

If you’re wondering, ‘does spray paint expire if not opened?’ the answer is no. Storing your sealed paint in ideal conditions can make it retain its original position for years. Sometimes, you may notice that the can has developed a hard lid, but that can be easily reversed by softening it with hot water or a hairdryer.

The lid usually hardens when the solvents inside the paint have evaporated, but that doesn’t mean it’s unusable.

After you’ve opened a spray can, environmental stressors, such as high heat, humidity, etc., can cause the paint to go bad.

Especially if the paint has been sitting for a long time, it’s possible that its propellant has evaporated or the nozzle is clogged. At times, the formula of the paint changes or its potency reduces over time, which means it may not deliver the same results as when it was new.

What Causes Paint to Go Bad?

Several factors can affect spray paint’s formula and mechanism. If you’re not careful enough, the following factors can reduce spray paint’s shelf life and affect its quality.

Extreme Temperature

Any area that receives too much heat or cold is not an ideal storage place for spray paint. The paint inside will dry and crack if the can is exposed to high temperatures. So, when you press the nozzle, nothing will come out.

Placing it in a cold spot will also affect the paint’s quality, making it go bad before the expiration date.

Exposure to Direct Sunlight

Direct exposure to sunlight can be harmful for your spray paints. If you keep your spray paint cans where they are exposed to direct sunlight, the chemicals in the paint’s formula will break down, causing it to become dry and brittle.

The paint will also lose its color if it’s wrongly stored directly under the sun.

Humidity Levels

Too much moisture in the air can upset the composition of the spray paint. This can make the paint inside sticky and lumpy. If you are not careful about high humidity levels in the storage area, your paint can go bad and become unusable.

Reduced Aerosol Pressure

If you open a spray paint can but don’t use it frequently, the aerosol pressure inside the can reduces over time. In this case, the paint’s formula is usable, but because there’s no pressure in the can, the spray mechanism won’t work.

Environmental Impurities

Whenever you use spray paint, environmental impurities such as dirt, oxygen, and ultraviolet rays enter the can through the tube. When these impurities get mixed with the chemicals inside, it causes an adverse reaction that makes the paint go bad even before its expiration.

Can You Use Paint That Has Gone Bad?

Sometimes, your spray paint can go bad even before its expiration date, but that doesn’t mean you should toss it away immediately. You can follow the tricks below to revive your old can and make it work.

1.      Shake It Well

If you’re using an old can and nothing is coming out, try giving it a thorough shake for 2-3 minutes and use it again. Most of the time, this acts as a ‘jump start’ for spray cans as it’s jolted back to life after sitting on the shelf for too long.

Shaking the can also help mix the color pigments that get settled at the bottom due to infrequent usage.

2.      Immerse In Warm Water

If you find that your spray paint is coming out too thick, you can immerse it in warm water to thin it out. Once the paint returns to its normal consistency, the application will become smooth and even.

3.      Decant the Paint If the Aerosol Isn’t Working

Loss of aerosol pressure is common in spray paints, but why throw the can away if the paint inside is usable?

Simply decant the paint by gently making a small puncture near the top of the can. Once the remaining pressure has escaped, you can cut the can open and transfer the paint into a sealable jar or a spray gun jug.

It would be best to stir the decanted paint before using or storing it to help release any gas or propellant that may still be inside.

FAQs

Does spray paint expire or go bad?

Spray paints usually expire in 2 to 3 years, but if they’re not properly stored, they can go bad before expiration.

How to dispose of spray paint safely?

A safe way to dispose of empty spray paint cans is to puncture a hole and recycle it as scrap metal.

How long does unused spray paint last?

An unopened can of spray paint has a shelf life of 2-3 years from its production date if stored properly.

What happens if you use expired spray paint?

If you use expired spray paint, the result will be vulnerable to drying and cracking. Also, its application and color may be different.

Final Word

It can be frustrating to find your spray paint can unusable after you have prepped the surface. Therefore, you should check your old cans’ expiry and test them before starting a new project to avoid any surprises. 

Spray painting is quite an exciting DIY which can quickly transform the appearance of various surfaces and objects. However, handling our spray painting objects would mean we need to wait for it to dry and can be a long wait, not to mention the wait between two or more coats. Luckily, there are ways to make spray paint dry faster, so you can enjoy your finished projects earlier than the recommended time.

Using a fast-drying spray paint for your project will reduce the drying time to just 20 minutes. Also lowering humidity, increasing room temperature, and improving ventilation can significantly reduce the drying time of your spray painted projects. Wax-based furniture polishes have also proven quite effective in drying paint faster to apply the next coat.  

The drying time of spray paints varies with the surface it’s applied to. You can know more about spray paint drying time and read the details. Similarly, a method that speeds up paint drying time on one surface might not work on the other. Therefore, I will explain how you can dry spray paint quickly on different surfaces.

Best Ways To Dry and Cure Spray Paint Faster

When you start a spray painting project, waiting time is inevitable. However, it is possible to reduce it so you can flaunt your finished work to your loved ones. 

Well, first you must know what are different stages of drying while spray painting so have a look as it is very important to know that before you proceed here

Let’s go over some easy and practical tips in detail.

 1.   Spray Thin Coats

If you keep layering on the spray paint, it will take longer to dry completely. Instead, apply the paint in thin layers, making sure to avoid overlapping, so the coat dries down quicker. 

Don’t spray too close, or you may end up saturating the surface. Start by standing 10 inches away, then decide if you need to move in closer. 

Also, use your entire hand to move the spray can and not just your wrist as you paint the surface.

2.   Increase Airflow

Whenever you’re working with spray paints, it’s better to choose a well-ventilated area. This serves two purposes: good ventilation ensures that you don’t breathe the VOCs in spray paint, and it allows your spray paint project to dry quickly. Therefore, work in an area with plenty of fresh air circulation.

If you want your spray paint to dry faster, you can increase the airflow by opening windows or using a fan to circulate air. Don’t get too excited with the fan, though and place it at a safe distance from the painted object so that the entire surface gets equal air pressure.

Caution: Don’t use the fan if you’re working in a dirty room, or else dirt and debris will stick to your paint.

3.   Increase the Temperature

A warm temperatures between 65 and 85 ℉ is ideal for a spray painting project. You can plan according to the weather forecast and pick days when it’s not too hot or humid. Painting outside on a warm and sunny day can help your paint dry faster.

However, Mother Nature doesn’t always stick to plans, and you may not find the ideal weather to work on your project. So, if you’re working indoors but want to speed up the paint’s drying process, you can increase the room’s temperature with a heater. Not only will it raise a few degrees, but also improve air circulation to cut the drying period by a few hours. 

You can even try drying spray paint with a hairdryer for smaller surfaces, as it works the same way as a heater. Just avoid getting it too close to the wet painted surface. 

4.   Decrease Humidity

Moisture is paint’s biggest enemy– especially when wet, too much moisture in the air can significantly increase drying time. High humidity levels also increase the chances of paint drips and dust contamination. Therefore, always pick days with low humidity, between 40% – 70%, to paint.

If you want your spray paint coat to harden quickly, decrease the humidity in the room by opening windows and doors. You can also use a dehumidifier or portable heater to reduce the moisture content in the air.

5.   Add Paint Thinner to the Paint Mix

You can add a paint thinner to your spray paint to make it dry faster. The solvents in the thinner dissolve paint and reduce its thickness to allow nice and smooth application of paint. A thinner paint means even thin paint layers that dry more quickly than thick ones.

Make sure not to add too much thinner to the paint as it can cause the color shade to be lighter than desired, just appropriate enough to get the desired consistency.

6.   Use Furniture Polish

Another effective way to dry spray paint faster is to apply wax-based furniture polish on the surface. While the product is not an easy-find, the polish can make spray paint dry instantly. 

Simply spray the wax-based polish over wet paint and allow it to dry for 5 minutes before adding a second layer. Wipe off the extra polish with a soft dry cloth.

Depending on the surface, you may need multiple thin layers to make the paint dry completely.

7.   Cure Spray Paint in the Oven

You can make spray paint dry faster on smaller objects by placing them in the oven. Since it delivers a combination of high temperature and airflow, curing spray paint in the oven is a trick that works all the time. 

However, you should not use a traditional oven as the paint releases harmful chemicals and VOCs as it dries, which can get absorbed by the food cooked in the oven later on. Instead, use an oven toaster that’s only used for paint-drying purposes.

You can place the object in a toaster oven when the spray paint is dry to the touch. Set the heat to 250 ℉ and leave it inside for around 2 hours. Before using this technique, make sure the paint is safe to cure in an oven by checking the label, as some may crack or bubble at high temperatures.

8.   Use a Heat Gun

You can use a heat gun to reduce spray paint drying time, but you must be careful and follow safety precautions. 

Hold the gun 2 inches away from the surface and move around the surface so the entire area is covered evenly. 

Caution: Always use the heat gun on a low setting because if you set it too high, you might remove the paint instead of drying it.

Does sunlight make spray paint dry faster?

There’s a common assumption that when we place a freshly painted object outside, the sun makes the paint dry faster, but the wind actually works its magic.

While painting outside has benefits, doing so directly under the sun is not advised. This is because the sun can cause the paint to dry too quickly, increasing the chances of paint cracks. So, if you find yourself in a similar situation, you will have to remove the top layer and start over again.

Temperatures above 50 degrees are ideal for painting, but excessive heat can make your paint peel and leave marks even though it will dry faster.

How To Make Spray Paint Dry Faster On Different Surfaces

As discussed earlier, different surfaces have different drying times depending on how porous it is. Let’s look at how you can make spray paint dry faster on various surfaces.

How To Make Spray Paint Dry Faster On Metal

Metal is a smooth and fast-drying material. If you’re spray painting metal in ideal weather conditions, it can become touch dry within 5 to 10 minutes. However, you can also lower the humidity and rise the temperature to make the paint dry faster. Try placing a heater and fan together near the surface to get the desired result.

How To Make Spray Paint Dry Faster On Plastic

Spray paint on plastic takes around 30 minutes to an hour to become touch dry. But if you want to hurry up the drying process, you can take your project outdoors in the sun and let Mother Nature work its magic. 

For indoor projects, you can increase the air circulation in the room and use a heater to raise the temperature. 

Caution: Don’t give a plastic surface too much heat, though or it may warp and lose shape. This means no curing in the oven or drying it with a heat gun.

How To Make Spray Paint Dry Faster On Wood

Wood is a porous surface that usually needs multiple paint coats to achieve the final result. Spray paint takes one to two hours to become touch dry on most wooden surfaces. 

If you’re working with water-based paints, you can expect them to dry faster than oil-based counterparts. 

By now, you know that heat is your best friend for speeding up paint’s drying time. So, paint on a sunny day when the temperature is between 65 and 85 ℉ or use a heater or heat gun to make your wooden surfaces dry faster.

How To Make Spray Paint Dry Faster On Cardboard

Cardboard, like wood, is another porous surface that needs to be dealt with care. If you spray on a thick layer of paint at once, you could ruin the surface; therefore, thin layers of paint are ideal for cardboard projects.

If you want the paint to dry soon, increase the ventilation by opening windows or placing a fan near it for quick results. Like plastic, cardboard cannot withstand high heat, so keep it away from heat guns, but you can use a hair dryer instead.

How To Make Spray Paint Dry Faster On Fabric

Spray painting on fabric requires a different technique– from pre-washing the material to the actual paint application. When you spray paint on the cloth, you have to do so in a continuous motion, or else you will produce splatters that will ruin the final look.

If you want the painting design to last on the fabric, you should leave it for 72 hours before washing. You can speed up the drying process by placing your project outdoors but not under direct sunlight. You can speed up the process by using a hair dryer set to at medium heat, keeping it at a distance of at least 10 to 12 inches from the surface.

Ironing the reverse fabric on low heat can also add an extra layer of protection to the design once the paint has dried up.

Plus, it is so much fun to spray paint your old pair of jeans. Here is a sneak peak into how to do that!

FAQs

How long does spray paint stay tacky?

Epoxy and polyurethane spray paints remain tacky for 5 minutes, but lacquer spray paints need a few more minutes to become dry to the touch. Latex and enamel paints take the longest time to dry and stay sticky for 60- 90 minutes.

How many coats of spray paint is too much?

You should apply 2-3 light coats of paint to achieve good coverage. Some surfaces may need more layers for a deeper color though. A primer will help achieve better finish with less coats of paint. 

Why is my spray paint not drying?

There can be two main reasons for spray paint not drying: you applied a thick layer of paint or didn’t give the first coat enough time to dry before applying the second one. 

Why is my spray paint soft?

If your spray paint is soft, it could be because you applied a thick layer of primer or sealer. Sometimes, not giving sufficient drying time between undercoat and topcoat can also cause this problem.

Long Story Short

You can speed-up the drying time and handle your DIY spray painting projects by improving ventilation and temperature and reducing humidity of the surrounding. If you want to know what are the exact drying times of different spray paints then you can read it here. 

If you want to know more about anything else regarding this topic, please leave a comment below and we will be happy to give you a response. 

Poor preparation and paint application can make even the best waterproof spray paint fail at withstanding moisture. As a DIY enthusiast, I can guide you through my research and experience in achieving the best results with this particular question: how to apply waterproof spray paint?

Applying waterproof spray paint is easy. Firstly, wash and sand the surface to get a smooth surface. Cover the surface with a primer to ensure the paint adheres properly. Next, apply the paint evenly in thin layers, and once the final coat is ready, you can finish it with a sealer.

Weather-proof spray paint is an effortless way to spruce up different surfaces and keep them looking as good as new. But, if you don’t follow the application process correctly, you may end up with a paint job that washes off with the next rain. So, let me reveal how you can achieve excellent results with waterproof spray paint.

Tools/ Equipment You Will Need

The success of a DIY paint job depends on the tools and equipment you use. Here are a few things you should keep handy before you begin.

•  Soft bristle brush- for cleaning the surface
• Soapy water
•  Paint thinner or rubbing alcohol (if needed)
•  Fine grit sandpaper
• A rag cloth
• A primer
• A waterproof sealer

Steps To Get Waterproof Results With Spray Paint

Most spray paints have high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be detrimental to health. Hence, wearing protective gear such as a face mask or respirator is necessary before you begin spray painting.

Also, make sure that the paint you’re using for the project is waterproof and not just water-resistant. If you are unsure about the difference between them, you can read our blog on Is spray paint waterproof to get a better idea.

Now, let’s get started.

Step 1: Clean the Surface

It is always better to paint on a clean surface as it ensures a smooth finish without any dust particles trapped underneath. Clean the surface with soap, water, and a soft bristles brush.

If you are working with highly saturated items or plastic, paint thinner or rubbing alcohol can help speed up the cleaning time. Allow the wet surface to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

 Step 2: Sand the Object

To ensure your spray paint adheres to the surface properly, removing any dust or debris is essential. You can use fine-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth and even surface. Don’t forget to wipe away the sanding residue with a clean rag or tack cloth afterward.

Step 3: Apply A Primer

While a primer is not necessary for all spray paint projects, you should always prime furniture and outdoor items. In addition, a primer is crucial when using water-based spray paints as it helps the paint stick to any surface and keeps water and moisture from breaking the color down over time.

Apply a primer compatible with your selected paint, following the instructions on the label.

Step 4: Start Painting

The paint application is a critical part of creating a waterproof surface. Start spraying paint in thin, even layers, ensuring the entire surface is covered. Any missed spots mean that water may get beneath the painted surface and result in cracks. You want to avoid spraying on the paint too thick and allow plenty of drying time between coats.

You may need two to three thin coats of paint to achieve your desired color and finish. Don’t forget that dry time is critical, so it’s better not to rush the process.

Step 5: Seal the Paint

While you don’t need to seal all types of spray paints, it is recommended to use a sealer for longevity. A clear and waterproof spray paint sealer can help preserve the paint color and make the coat more durable.

If you’re using waterproof spray paint, skipping the sealer for indoor projects is okay, but if the paint is only water-resistant, the sealer is necessary to protect surfaces from water and moisture damage.

FAQs

How do you waterproof spray paint?

If you want the paint to be weather-resistant, it’s best to apply waterproof spray paint. You can also use a waterproof sealer on top of regular paint to make it last through rain and snow. While a single coat of sealer may be enough, you can add multiple layers depending on your project’s vulnerability to moisture.

Can you make spray paint last on metal?

Yes, you can make spray paint stick to metal and also last by using a primer underneath. For permanent results, it’s recommended to use water-based acrylic paints or oil-based paints. Don’t forget to apply a sealer at the end to make the project waterproof.

How long does spray paint take to harden fully?

Different types of paints have varied drying times. Water-based paints harden more quicker than oil-based paints. Lacquer spray paint is the quickest to dry, with only 20 to 30 minutes of drying time.

Lastly

A spray paint DIY takes time and energy, so why not make it waterproof while you’re at it? With the right tools and technique, you can achieve a flawless finish and also make your project last longer with techniques that that explain how to apply waterproof spray paints.

Spray paint is probably the easiest way to paint an object, making it a preferred addition in most DIYs. However, many worry if it will last or simply wash away with water. I will help you debunk misconceptions about different kinds of spray paints and reveal the answer to the most common question: “is spray paint waterproof?”

In general, spray paints are not waterproof, but they are water-resistant. However, exterior-grade spray paint is waterproof and can withstand weather elements like rain and snow. You should read the label carefully before buying spray paint to ensure it can resist moisture.

Several types of spray paints are available on the market, but if you know what you’re looking for, selecting the perfect one for the job gets easier. With my help, you will be able to identify which spray paint is waterproof the next time you walk into a paint shop.

Is Spray Paint Waterproof or not?

Some types of spray paints are waterproof, while others are not. Most of the options you will find are water-repellent but not completely waterproof.

However, exterior spray paints are formulated to endure weather elements, including moisture. But when dealing with outdoor spray paints, it is important to prep and seal the surface correctly to get the full benefits of waterproof paint.

How To Tell: is Spray Paint Waterproof?

You can tell whether the paint is waterproof by carefully reading the spray paint’s label. If the product is waterproof or water-resistant, the manufacturer will indicate it on the container. But if you don’t see a mention, it will probably wash away effortlessly.

What Makes Spray Paint Waterproof?

Waterproof spray paints contain a special water-repelling ingredient in their formula. When added in proper ratios, this increases the paint’s ability to withstand water. However, all paints aren’t created equal– some have a higher level of water repellency than others. The amount of water-repelling agents used in the paint formulation changes its characteristics and response to water.

Waterproof vs. Water-Repellent- What is the Difference?

Moisture causes mold, mildew, and rot in wooden and masonry surfaces. For this reason, many people prefer to use spray paint that doesn’t let moisture in and keeps the color looking vibrant for longer. There are two basic types of spray paints: waterproof and water-resistant. But the difference between them can be confusing for first-time buyers.

Waterproof paint combines pigments, resins, and solvents that create a moisture barrier on any surface that it’s applied. It also has additives that prevent the growth of mildew and mold. Thus, this type of paint is water-insoluble and designed to keep the color and finish intact even if the surface comes in regular contact with water. You can apply a sealer to build another protective layer against water for a long-lasting finish.

On the other hand, water-resistant spray paints can endure water, but they aren’t entirely waterproof. They will eventually break down, fade, chip, or wash away over time. So, waterproof paint will give the best results if you’re planning to paint on a surface outdoors, in the bathroom, kitchen, or any other area with more humidity and moisture.

Different Types of Spray Paints

There are two broad categories of spray paints: they are either water-based or oil-based. When we say a color is oil or water-based, we are actually referring to the type of solvent used in the paint. It is the liquid component that evaporates when the paint dries.

• Water-based paints are more eco-friendly and don’t require mineral spirits or turpentine for cleaning. Instead, it easily washes away with soap and water. They can expand and contract with changing weather conditions, making them more resistant to cracking.

• Oil-based paints dry harder, which makes them more resistant to wear and tear. But since the paint dries harder, it doesn’t have the same flexibility as water-based paints and becomes dry, brittle, and chalky over time.

Here are a few basic types you can buy from a paint store. Each of them is either water-based or oil-based.

1.   Acrylic Paint

Acrylic, also known as Tempera, consists of pigments, flour, and water. So, is acrylic spray paint waterproof? No, it’s not.

This chemical-based paint is often used for painting cars, but it has to be covered with a clear coat or sealant to make it waterproof. Applying acrylic paint to surfaces is relatively easier, but it cannot endure moisture once the paint dries.

Montana Black Color Spray Set of 12 one of the best choices for acrylic spray paints for graffiti arts.

2.   Epoxy Paint

Epoxy spray paint can be water-based or oil-based, so you can choose one according to your preference. This type of paint contains adhesives and polymers, which makes it resistant to stains, chemicals, and water. Although some epoxy paints are labeled waterproof, they don’t respond well to heat or frost.

However, the Rust Oleum Appliance Epoxy Spray Paint works best on appliances and can resist heat and frost in long run. The rust-resistant, white paint provides a glossy finish to the product and lightens up the surroundings.

3.   Chalk Paint

This is another water-based paint widely used for spray painting furniture, patio, floors, etc. It is not waterproof, but it’s water-resistant. However, an added layer of sealer or lacquer can significantly increase the paint’s life and protect surfaces from damage by water.

The Rust Oleum Chalk Spray paint is an amazing quality paint spray paint which comes in many colors and shades of blue, grey, rust and white.

4.   Enamel Paint

Enamel paints can be water-based, oil-based, or lacquer-based, and the solvent used determines how weather-resistant the formulation is. Therefore, if you’re wondering, ‘is enamel spray paint waterproof,’ you should know that oil-based or lacquer-based enamel paints are waterproof and can be used without a sealer.

Water-based enamel paints are not waterproof like the other two variants and need the surface to be primed and sealed to make it withstand moisture.

Rust Oleum’s Enamel Gloss Spray Paint is one of those high quality spray paints that come in vibrant colors. It is a must try for all your DIY projects.

5.   Latex Paint

Latex paint is often referred to as ‘acrylic latex’ because of its similarities with acrylic paint. However, a prominent difference between them is that latex is water-based while acrylic is chemical-based. Moreover, latex paint is cheaper and easier to use, but it’s not as weather-resistant as acrylic, making it more suitable for indoor projects.

I would highly recommend Krylon Latex Aerosol Spray paint as it gives the most durable finish.

6.   Metallic Paints

Reflective pigments in metallic paints make them ideal for projects where you want a high-shine finish. Moreover, this paint is a cheaper alternative to enamel-based colors but still offers impressive results.

Water-based metallic spray paints are suitable for indoor projects as the paint is not waterproof.

However, exterior-grade metallic paint is mostly oil-based and highly resistant to water, making it a waterproof spray paint for metal and other surfaces.

You will find a number for different metallic shades with the Rust Oleum Metallic Paint and Primer in One, extremely durable and highest quality spray paint for a smooth finish.

Here is a little summarized version

*Although some paints do not require sealant, however its highly recommended for a long lasting finish

FAQs

Does rain wash off spray paint?

Wet paint easily washes off with rainwater, but waterproof paint will not wash away with rain if it has dried for long enough.

Is spray paint permanent?

Spray paints can last between three to five years, depending on the quality and type used. Exterior-grade waterproof paints have a longer life than regular spray paints.

Does spray paint need to be sealed?

It is not necessary to seal spray paint, but it is recommended to seal the surface after using water-based paint. Also, if you are working on an outdoor project, a sealer can help increase the life of the coat.

Does spray paint come off easily?

You can clean water-based spray paints quickly when wet. Oil-based paints require turpentine and other strong chemicals for removal.

Is spray paint toxic?

Most spray paints are toxic as they contain hazardous elements called VOCs. Also, you should always wear protective gear when using spray paint to keep yourself safe.

Is spray paint heat-resistant?

Yes, some spray paints can resist high heat levels and you can use them for painting outdoor surfaces and appliances such as ovens.

Conclusion

Whether or not you need waterproof paint for your project depends on its exposure to humidity, moisture, and water. Most outdoor spray paints are waterproof, but the longevity of the color depends on how you prepare, prime, apply, and seal the paint.

We hope to have answered your question “is spray paint waterproof” in detail. So, here is a detailed guide on how to apply waterproof spray paint, check out the details and let us know what you think.

Concrete is a durable building material, but too much of its gray color can be a bit boring. Luckily, I can help you cover imperfections and spruce up the look of any concrete object, from walls to basements and driveways, with a coat of spray paint. With my tips, you can spray paint concrete walls and achieve a smooth finish that doesn’t chip or feather away.

Yes, you can easily spray paint on concrete surfaces with the correct technique. Start by cleaning the surface you want to paint and follow it up with a thorough sanding to achieve a smooth base. Apply a coat of primer to build a strong foundation, and finally, spray the paint in multiple thin layers for an even finish.

Painting on concrete can be tricky, and it’s easy to mess up the paint job if you don’t follow the right process. Here is everything you need to know about painting concrete surfaces like a pro while making sure it stands the test of time.

What Kind Of Spray Paint To Use On Concrete?

A spray paint DIY is the easiest way to bring life to old and dull concrete surfaces. It not only enhances the appearance of concrete objects but also protects surfaces from stains.

While the thought of clean and freshly-painted concrete is appealing, choosing the right type of paint is critical to give your masonry surface a new look. There are two types of concrete paints:

• Acrylic latex paint
• Epoxy paint

Each type of concrete paint has pros and cons. Familiarize yourself with the two, so you know which kind of paint is better suited to your project.

Acrylic Latex Paint

Acrylic latex paint is water-based and makes paint application on concrete seem like a breeze. The paint mixes and spreads quickly on masonry surfaces without special tools such as brushes or rollers. It is a budget-friendly option that can be used to paint walls, floors, steps, etc.

The downside of acrylic latex paint is that it’s not as durable as epoxy paint. As easy as it is to apply it, the paint comes off rather quickly and requires a fresh coat every 2-3 years.

Epoxy Paint

Epoxy paint is available in different variants, such as two-part solids-based, water-based, or solvent-based. It is an acrylic latex product that contains a small amount of epoxy in the mix. The addition of epoxy provides a tough and durable protective coating that is easy to maintain.

The main difference between epoxy and ordinary paint is that epoxy ensures that the paint adheres to the concrete surface better, whereas standard acrylic paint will eventually flake and peel.

Epoxy kits contain two liquids that must be mixed before application: an epoxy resin and a hardener. This type of paint is difficult to spread and is more labor-intensive. Apart from the additional paint application hours needed for epoxy paint, it is more expensive than acrylic paint. However, the results of epoxy paint application are amazing and worth the cost.

Additional Considerations For Paint Selection

If you plan to spray paint concrete, the type of paint you select isn’t limited to the latex vs. epoxy debate. There are other important considerations that you should keep in mind before starting your project.

• Where is the object that you want to paint? Floor paints and epoxies are heavy, so they don’t work well on vertical surfaces. So, it’s better to buy concrete wall paint or concrete brick paint.
• If you want to use the paint outdoors, make sure the paint is exterior-grade and weather-resistant. Exterior-grade paint and epoxies hold up well under harsh weather conditions and require fewer repairs and touch-ups.
• Decide on the paint finish you want. A glossy surface is smooth, easy to clean, and overall more durable. But a matte finish would be more suitable if you want your masonry to blend into the background.

Materials You Will Need To spray Paint Concrete

Painting concrete is not as easy as painting a regular wall, but if you do it correctly, it can make your home look modern and neat. Here are the equipment and materials you will need for spray painting concrete.

• A stiff bristle brush
• A putty knife
• A pole sander
• A paintbrush, roller, or spray paint
• Protective gear mask, gloves, eye googles and apron
• A vinyl concrete patching compound
• Sandpaper
• Concrete sealing primer
• Non-skid concrete paint
• Painters tape

6 Steps To Apply Spray Paint To Concrete

Now, let’s get down to the real task. Please remember to wear protective gear so the paint doesn’t come in direct contact with your skin, eyes, or clothes, as it can be hazardous to health. Also, if the object you’re painting is brand new, wait for at least a month before painting it; otherwise, the paint will not adhere to the surface properly.

You can follow this step-by-step guide for painting on concrete.

Step 1: Clean the Concrete Surface

You can achieve good paint results only if you start with a clean surface. Therefore, you must thoroughly clean the concrete surface with a stiff-bristle brush and remove loose concrete and debris. If you are working outdoors, remove any weeds or moss growing out of the area you want to paint.

You can use warm soapy water to get rid of any grime or dirt. If you have a power washer, take it for a spin and cut your cleaning time, but let the concrete dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Patch Holes and Cracks

Concrete has small holes and cracks that can result in a patchy paint application. You can smooth out the texture by filling in the holes with a putty knife and concrete compound.

Step 3: Sanding

Use sandpaper to sand off any rough bumps or spots. If you are painting a large surface such as the basement floor or a wall, you can attach the sandpaper to a pole sander to cover more area quickly. After sanding, make sure to clean up any residue.

Step 4: Tape off areas you want to keep paint-free

It is a good idea to tape off any nearby areas where you don’t want to paint accidentally. For example, if you’re painting up to the edge of a wall, you can apply tape on the base to keep paint off of it.

Step 5: Prime the concrete

Concrete is a highly porous surface, so if you skip the priming step, the paint will not stick to it. Apply primer evenly over the surface with a roller or brush and wait for at least 30 minutes before you start painting. Some paints already have a primer in the formula; in that case, you can skip this step.

Step 6: Apply Paint

Now start applying paint to the prepped and primed concrete. You can use a brush, roller, or spray to cover the surface completely. Some masonry paints are thicker in texture and might clog air sprayers. So, if you plan to spray paint, buy a product that works well in a sprayer.

A single coat might not be enough, so apply paint in 2 to 3 layers for a rich and even finish. It would be best to let the area dry for at least a day before you go in with the next coat. If you are painting outdoors, scan the weather forecast before starting the project to avoid any surprise rainfall.

FAQs

Does painting concrete last?

Spray paint lasts on concrete for 3-5 years, depending on the type of paint you use and the elements the area is exposed to.

Is it better to roll or spray paint concrete?

Spray painting concrete is better than rolling because you can achieve an even finish even on rough and porous surfaces. However, it needs more number of coats as the paint goes on thinly with each coat.

Does painting concrete make it slippery?

Freshly-painted concrete surfaces tend to be slippery, but you can reverse that effect by using non-skid concrete floor paint.

Can you spray sealer on concrete?

Yes, you can apply a penetrating concrete sealer with a spray. If you are working with decorative acrylic sealer or epoxy floor coating, it is better to use a roller.

Can you spray paint concrete statues?

Yes you can most definitely spray paint concrete statues. You can use one basic color for whole statue or just a few different colors to create depth and make them life like. In any case, it is always better to prep the surface before spray painting them.

Can you spray paint concrete-Conclusion

Spray painting on concrete is not as difficult as it may look at first. Especially when you picture a perfectly-painted surface, all the effort seems worth it. With the correct tools and technique, you can easily paint any concrete surface regardless of size and condition.

Do check out our blog how to apply waterproof spray paint which might help you further increase your knowledge.