I just bought interior paint (BEHR), but I don't plan on painting for another 3 weeks. Will the paint be okay?

Question

I'm curious as to what the shelf life is on paint.

Thanks

Answer 1

The paint will, theoretically, be fresh until the can is opened. However, letting it sit still for three weeks will have the paint 'settle', and the pigments will seperate from the base.

Before using it, take it to the paint store and have them shake it for you, or use a drill motor stirer, or use a stick and stir the fire out of it.

Answer 2

I think I have paint that is older than me--just kidding. Paint lasts a very long time, especially if you've never opened the can. It's the can that isn't closed properly that wrecks paint. Anyway, the most important thing is to stir the paint very, very well before you use it--50 stirs one way, 50 the other. Some people shake the paint can. before they open it. If the paint looks separated when you open the can, don't worry about it. Just mix it up very well, and dig deep. If you are using OLD paint, which yours isn't, and it has clumps in it, you can strain out the clumps by pouring/squeezing the paint through part of a panty hose leg. I'm sure you could buy some kind of sieve, as well. You are welcome.

Answer 3

Weeks is no problem. Just give it a small stirring before applying. If you want you can bring it back to Home Depot or wherever you bought it and ask them to shake it up again by machine.

Anything in months for a closed can is still OK but you will need to do vigorous stirring to mix the pigments and carrier before using it. Try storing the can upside down.

You will find that if you want to do touching up in a year or two stirring again will be all it takes (even if it forms a film on top after years you can use it).

Answer 4

Un-opened paint can last for years! It should be totally fine. Even if you already opened it, it's still absolutely fine. Just remember to blend it well before you start--especially if you've already opened it. I have a paint stirrer that attaches to a hand drill. Those are good :)

I paint my room nearly every year, using some of the same colors. So, I just keep the cans well sealed. Placing some plastic wrap between the lid and the bucket seems to keep rust from accumulating.

Good luck!

Answer 5

It will just need a lot of stirring. Paint separates.
The shelf life of paint is at least 3 years. I keep extra for each room and have never had a problem.

Answer 6

It will be fine. I don't know exactly what the shelf life is but i have used paint that is years old but has been kept in a dry and not hot or cold environment. But 3 weeks or 3 months should be great.

Answer 7

No problem even for moths, just be sure it's properly covered, I mean the cover is tight. There maybe hardening on top but that's just some kind of a thin layer. Before using, remove the thin layer and stir it thoroughly to bring back the proper mixture

Answer 8

They will be fine, just shake then REALLY well..

did you know that even if you left a paint can open, it takes 45 days for it to dry, and that is with less than a half of a gallon...

That is open..

so closed it will last a good LONG while.

Answer 9

It will be fine. Just stir well before using. I've kept paint much cheaper than BEHR for years and it was still usable.

Answer 10

The paint will be fine, but the pigment may begin to settle out of it. When you are ready to paint you can take it back to the store so they can shake it for you or you can spend about 5 minutes stirring it really well to reincorporate all of the pigment.