As the Fall rains move in and we begin to admit that Winter is near, homeowners across Washington State are getting ready to hunker (or already have hunkered) down. At the same time, many homeowners may be planning interior renovations to spruce up and brighten their homes before the long Winter and before the holidays.

An update like interior painting is often thought of as a Spring and Summer home project because you can leave the windows open during and after painting. However, Winter is a good time for interior painting projects as well. If you are on the fence about interior painting during the cold weather, here is a list of reasons why Winter is a good time for interior painting projects in WA state.

Is it Okay to Paint My Interior in Cold Weather?

There are differing opinions as to what temperatures, both inside and out, are best for interior painting. Generally speaking, most oil-based paints dry best between 40-90°F. Latex-based paints typically do best between 50-85°F. Getting the interior of your home in this temperature range is easily attainable in colder months, making Winter is a good time for interior painting projects in WA state.

For homeowners, it may be tricky to paint around wet or undesirable painting weather conditions. Professional painters, on the other hand, have extensive knowledge about the paints they use. They can also determine the best temperatures for paints to dry perfectly.

Dry Air is the Best for Curing Paint

Too much moisture in the air can also shorten the lifespan of your paint with cracking and bubbling. If there is too much humidity, your paint won’t cure properly. Although the weather outside may be wet or humid, a home’s heating system can help dry air inside the home. This will help the paint dry at a faster, more uniform rate.

When it comes to humidity, the most uniform drying happens between 40-70% humidity. Paint cures through evaporation. This means the air in your room will draw out the moisture of your paint, leaving a beautifully painted wall. Most professionals recommend waiting until there is less humidity in the air to help your paint cure properly and last longer.

A professional painter will pay attention to the weather patterns outside. They also see how they can change the temperatures and conditions inside, when they’re planning your job. Your professional painter will choose a time and day that works best for you and for the paint to look its best for a longer period of time.

Painting Contractors Often Have More Time in the Winter

Contractors often see their number of projects slow down in the Winter months. This means you may be more likely to schedule your interior painting project during a time that fits your needs.

Painting contractor’s schedules typically pick up in the early-Spring and they stay busy through the Fall months. You may be able to have your interior painted much faster than if it were patined during the busier seasons.

Prices are Generally Lower

For many painting contractors, the Winter months are the ones with the most flexibility. Some painters offer discounts on interior painting projects that are carried out in the Winter. This can be simply because they have fewer booked painting jobs. Painting contractors want to provide as much work as possible for their painters to keep them employed and their company growing.

Since costs follow the flow of demand, labor and supplies like paint may be cheaper in the Winter months. Having a newly painted home for the holiday season can also bring a fresh look to your home during special times. Interior painting updates make homes more enjoyable to spend time in and can be appreciated for many years to come.

What Parts of the Home Can Be Painted in the Winter?

Interior walls are the most sought-after interior paint project. However, there are other interior painting updates that can be done to make a big change to your home.

Trim and window sills, for example, can be painted after first inspecting them for water or other damage. This is an important repair that can be made before the weather turns to prevent major repairs. These types of repairs can be identified and taken care of by your contractor fairly easily in order to protect your home and update your accent colors.

Ceilings are one of the most underrated parts of your home. Even if you update your walls, a dingy ceiling can distract from the rest of your updates. Not to mention that spots or cracks on your ceiling may be an indicator of water damage. A professional contractor can help you address and fix this.

Doors and door casings are some finishing touches that you may consider repairing/repainting to complete your home’s new look. For any new colors you choose, you’ll want to make sure your doors compliment these color choices.

It is important to plan your interior painting project wisely. Be strategic and stay ahead of your home maintenance projects by utilizing these upcoming Winter months for your home interior projects.

For a professional, high-quality update to your home, you don’t need to wait until the Spring to have a space you can enjoy while you stay home and cozy this Winter. At Flying Colors Painting, we bring you quality service with a professional finish that will make you feel happy at home.