How to Get Paint to Dry in Below Freezing Temps

Painting is best done, whether indoor or outdoor, during optimal times of the day and year. Avoiding extreme temperatures, such as high heat and below freezing cold, helps to ensure paint dries completely and properly. Situations sometimes arise where painting needs to be done in less than optimal conditions, such as during periods of freezing temperatures. Getting paint to dry when the temperature has dipped down below 32 degrees Fahrenheit requires a little more planning, preparation and patience.

Oil based paint
Tarp
Stakes
Dehumidifier

Instructions

- 1
  Check the forecast if painting outdoors. Opt for a higher temperature and low humidity day during colder winter months. Adjust your painting plans accordingly to avoid extreme low temperatures as freezing weather causes paint to dry slowly.
- 2
  Change the type of paint you are using. Opt for paint rated to be used in freezing temperatures or use oil based paint. Oil based paint is hearty enough to cure properly, although slowly, in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid latex paint when painting in freezing weather.
- 3
  Remove humidity from the area surrounding the wet paint. Place tarps in the form of a tent or shield over the area if it cannot be sectioned off by closing doors and windows. Place stakes into the ground and hang the tarp to create a shield. Run a dehumidifier in areas such as garages which has an electrical power source and are subject to freezing temperatures but not rain, snow or ice.
- 4
  Use the highest point of the sun to help warm the area you are painting. Direct sun rays will cause paint to dry faster, which is not beneficial during normal temperatures, though the heat generated from the sun will help speed up drying time which is slowed by freezing temperatures.

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