Is it safe to store paint in jugs inside a shed with minimal light?
Asked by Arlo Anderson 
8 months ago
Last Updated: May 10, 2024
Is it okay to keep paint in containers like these, in a shed with just a bit of light?
As long as it doesn’t freeze, unless it’s oil-based.
The container is okay but it should be kept in a place with controlled temperature. If it gets too cold during the winter and freezes, it will be damaged when it thaws
Appreciate the advice. Fortunately, I’m in a temperate area where freezing isn’t an issue. Tired of dealing with unreliable metal cans that end up covered in rust.
My aunt repurposes plastic jars that previously held peanut butter for mixing paint. The wider rim helps with stirring. You could try tightening the lids and maybe adding tape around the edges for a more airtight seal.
I repurpose plastic peanut butter jars for storing leftover paint. I make sure to cover the top with plastic wrap before sealing it with the lid to prevent it from sticking.
I’ve been a professional painter for 30 years using Benjamin Moore paints. The paint is durable, unless it freezes or the can begins to rust. Just make sure to cut off the top to mix it well before using it again. Nowadays, paint tends to separate and settle quickly.
I’m glad to hear that as a seasoned professional, discoloration isn’t a concern for you. Metal containers often rust, particularly in coastal regions like this, so it’s a major issue.
I would worry more about freezing than light exposure.
Thank you ! I’m fortunate to live in San Francisco where the weather is quite mild.
Last year, I had to move a bunch of latex paint to my shed. To make a long story short, when I went to use them this year, they were all ruined. The shed didn’t get any light and the freezing temperatures did the damage. I lost a lot of money in paint that was fine when stored in the garage before.
Ouch. I always remind my paint suppliers to advise their customers to store paint indoors. I also reassure my customers by offering to purchase the paint myself to ensure its quality. One time, a potential customer mentioned they had already bought paint on sale for both the inside and outside of their large house. When I inspected it, I discovered they had stored it in the garage for 2 winters. I advised against using any of it, even though it was top-of-the-line paint worth several thousands. I didn’t get the job, but I’m sure they found someone else who would.
What if you have a shed and live in a relatively mild climate, but experience a few cold nights a year, with temperatures in the 40s and 30s Fahrenheit?
Personally, I would advise caution. Even if a can is only half full, there’s still a risk of the water freezing. Full cans are less likely to have this issue.
The price of paint has increased more rapidly than many other building materials, so I have to be more careful with leftovers. These days, new paint products tend to separate quicker than before, making them more prone to freezing.
That is so funny 😂 Maybe paint the jug that has paint in it.
It looks like you’ve grasped only part of what you believe you’ve grasped.
I would rather store in the plastic gallon containers with a wide opening like paint cans. Mixing it up after storage will be a challenge.
Looks like a valvetec jug for fuel additives. Just make sure it’s properly cleaned out
It might be a good idea to only fill them up 3/4 of the way, tip them over once before storing them so the paint in the lid won’t seal the bottle. If they are only partially filled, you can shake them well before using the paint. Another option is to visit a local DIY paint store (especially if you are purchasing other supplies from them) as they may shake these for you before use
Hey, do you think the screwtop might get stuck if it’s painted shut?