how long should gallons of paint be kept and can be used. either oil or laytex?

Answer 1

There's no guarantee, but if sealed up tight, latex could last a few years or more. Oil paint will last far longer. Peel the skin that will develop, off the top and the oil paint will still be usable.

Answer 2

Either oil based or latex can be kept for years, provided you have sealed them well, and kept them from freezing. Ideally you should shake them every once in a while to keep the paint mixed up.

The less paint remaining in the can, the shorter time it will keep, because there is more air in the can to effect the paint. But, even if there is a thin skin on the top of the paint when you open the can, it could be used. Just remove the skim, stir well and paint. Done it several times. In fact, just did so this morning with a can of polyurathane varnish and stain combination.

The key is to get the can closed tightly. I am going to start using two different gallons of indoor wall paint this afternoon. I know I will not use all of either gallon. The first thing I do before I even open the can is to mark the lid relative to the can, with a magic permanent marker. That way, when I put the lid back on, it is indexed the same every time. Makes for a better seal.

Also, take care so as not to get paint in the sealing surfaces on both the can and the lid. It will act as a glue when you close it.

Answer 3

I used paint this summer that I've had for better than 10 years. As long as you have it sealed properly and it hasn't ever been frozen, it should last indefinitely. However, once you open it and start using it, it must be resealed very well and probably should be used up as soon as possible.

Answer 4

If the lids are kept on tight they should last over a year. After that you just check them. If they start clumping or turn hard they are no good.