ᐅ How to Prevent Leftover Paint from Drying Out in the Can?

Created on: 2 Mar 2023 15:29
T
tobwenz
After finishing the work, there is usually some leftover (wood/wall) paint remaining in the can. However, once exposed to air, this paint starts to dry out and therefore has a limited shelf life.

Is there a way to prevent or slow down this process? I have heard that lightly coating the remaining paint with (sunflower?) oil can block air contact and thus prevent aging.

Is this true?

Or is there another method?
S
Steffi33
1 Feb 2024 09:31
xMisterDx schrieb:

Even if that were the case. Would you seriously open a 5-year-old paint can and start painting with it?
Just a quick note on the topic of "old paint"... Yesterday, I opened an old leftover can of silicate interior paint dated May 17, 2017. So, almost 7 years old! A sort of oil or thick (clear) liquid had settled on top of the paint, but underneath, the paint was smooth and completely intact. I stirred a few spoonfuls, including the liquid, in a small dish and touched up some spots on the wall. Perfect! Today, everything has dried, and there are no visible transitions.