Pay attention to working conditions

Air humidity

The surface to be painted must always be dry and clean. When applying under colder conditions in a non-heated working area, be aware of condensation. Humid conditions may have repercussions on the drying and final results. Moisture can settle into the wet film, causing the paint to lose its gloss. In particular two-component paints are susceptible to moisture problems. Therefore always work in dry, draft free and dust free surroundings. 

Temperature

Temperature of the paint/varnish, the object/surface and working area should be more or less the same. Large temperature differences may have repercussions on the drying and hardening. When working below the minimum application and drying temperatures drying and hardening will take more time and mechanical properties cannot always be fully achieved. Under colder conditions paint and varnish will also be thicker and more difficult to apply. This leads to a higher consumption.

TIP: When painting overhead also be aware of condensation from your breath on the cold surface. By using a hygrometer and thermometer one can determine if the working area is fit for painting.

Do not paint in direct sunlight, under windy or humid conditions. If working conditions are poor, it may be better to postpone the paint job until working conditions improve. If in doubt, refer to an online local weather station.

 Conditions during application and drying

One-comp. primers                           : min 10°C.- 50°F.      max  25°C. - 77°F.      RAH 85%

Two-comp epoxy primers/coatings : min 15°C.- 59°F.      max  25°C. - 77°F.      RAH 70%

One-comp. finishing topcoats          : min 5°C. - 41°F.       max 30°C. - 86°F.      RAH 85%

Two-comp. poly-urethane topcoats : min 12°C. - 54°F.    max 25°C. - 77°F.       RAH 70%