Is Winter Painting Really a No-Go? Not Necessarily.
Most people wouldn’t dream of painting the outside of their home during winter—it's cold, the days are short, and unpredictable weather is a recipe for trouble. Cold temperatures stop paint from curing properly, and let’s face it, no one wants to prop open a door or window on a freezing day.
Even interior painting can seem unappealing when the light is low and the house is chilly.
But here’s the good news: you can paint in winter—you just need to work smarter, not harder.
Yes, You Can Paint in Winter
While it’s not always ideal, winter painting isn’t off-limits. The key is to adapt your approach to suit the season.
Start later in the morning to give surfaces—known as substrates—a chance to dry and warm up. Materials like plaster and concrete can hold moisture and stay colder than the room air. Wiping off any surface moisture can speed things up.
Also, aim to finish earlier. As temperatures drop and dew settles in the late afternoon, paint won’t dry properly if applied too late in the day. Sharples suggests shorter lunch breaks to make the most of the small painting window.
Ideal painting hours? Around 10am to 3pm, following the sun and avoiding the coldest, shadiest parts of your house.
Use the Right Products for Cold Weather
Look for winter-grade paints or additives that allow you to paint in low temperatures—some down to 2°C. Some quick-dry waterborne paints become shower-resistant within 10–15 minutes, offering protection if you're caught in a sudden drizzle. If a quick shower does roll through, you won’t lose your work.
So What Can You Paint?
Even during winter, a mix of interior and exterior work is possible. Some sunny days are perfect for outdoor jobs like under-eaves, windowsills, or front steps.
Inside, try refreshing skirting boards, repainting kitchen cupboard doors, ceilings, or doing minor touch-ups. Just make sure you manage airflow and temperature.
If you’re using heating—especially with modern heat pumps that dehumidify—you may need a warm-weather additive to stop the paint from drying too fast.
Planning is everything, you have to consider conditions whether you're working indoors or out.
Winter Painting Pitfalls to Avoid
Weather is your biggest risk. Always check the forecast and don’t push your painting too late in the day. If temperatures drop and dew forms, the paint could fail to adhere—and end up on the ground instead of the wall.
Here’s a simple test: If your clothes won’t dry on the line, your paint won’t either.
Ventilation is Key
Paint needs a warm, dry, and ventilated environment to cure properly. A fan and heater combo works well.
Turn the heater on half an hour before you start to warm the room to about 18–22°C. Close the door to trap the heat, but don’t overdo it—just aim for a steady temperature.
Most paint drying times are based on 18°C. If it's colder, expect longer drying times. Be patient and avoid overcoating too soon.
Final Tips for a Successful Winter Paint Job
Plan ahead. Think about timing, temperature, and surface conditions.
Use the right paint and additives.
Start late, finish early.
Avoid painting in damp, shady areas.
Keep the room warm and well ventilated.
With careful planning and the right tools, you don’t have to write off winter painting entirely.
