Paints can be used and then resealed for storage.
But sometimes, it can store well without problems and get a thick layer.
Such thickening of the top layer is called skinning. And it can be a problem.
So, What Do You Add to Paints to Prevent Skinning?
One of the best ways to avoid skinning paints is to add anti-skinning agents such as methyl ethyl ketoxime. Another one is to store it upside down. You need to, however, make sure that the tip is good and tight. Even though this may not utterly prevent skinning, it will only occur at the bottom of the container or can. Skinning on the bottom is often minimal, given that the bottom is air-tight. The air comes in contact with the paint and causes skinning. So, if there is a way you can seal it, it becomes a lot easier to prevent skinning.
What Causes Skinning in Paints?
Skinning occurs when your paints come in contact with air.
Air makes the top layer of the paint develop a hardened layer.
The thickness can increase with time, making it impossible for you to use the paint.
If you keep your paints in an open container, there is no doubt it will develop this problem.
Five Ways to Prevent Skinning in Paints
1. Add Anti-Skinning Agents
Anti-skinning agents have been devised to combat the skinning of paints and keep them under fresh conditions during storage.
They are solvent-bone air-drying coatings that work by preventing in-can skinning on paints.
The most popular one is methyl ethyl ketoxime.
They are available in many types, but volatile ones have been preferred the most.
They prove more efficient.
The application of anti-skinning agents is simple. You must pour the chemical into the container with your paints before sealing it.
2. Store Your Paints in A Closed Container
Whether you are using a container or any, you can ensure that it is tightly sealed.
You want to prevent the entry of air into the container to prevent air from coming in contact with the paints. Invest in containers with lids.
Often, paints are sold in special containers with tight seals. Use them to prevent skinning.
3. Store Your Paints Upside Down
Sealing your paint container may not be enough, even though the method helps greatly prevent skinning.
It may not completely solve the problem. A layer will always develop on the top of the container or can.
This may become a problem during your next painting assignments since you will be tasked with removing the layer first.
To prevent this, you can store the painting upside down.
Of course, you must ensure that the lid or whatever you use to seal your container is tight and good enough.
This will guarantee a fresh top during your next painting tasks. Skinning will only occur at the bottom of the paint and on a small scale.
4. Make A Paint Can Blotter
Another cool tip to prevent skinning is to put waxed paper on top of the paint before sealing it.
All you have to do is cut out a small piece of waxed paper, depending on the size of the container you store your paint in.
This blotting idea will ensure that the waxed paper is always there to prevent skinning and keep the top layer fresh for the next use. Ideally, it keeps air off the paint.
5. Watch Storage Temperatures
Paints react to the slightest changes in temperature. And that gives you more reason to be wary of storage temperatures.
If you keep it in an extremely cold storage point, skinning will worsen.
On the other hand, storing paint under extremely high temperatures will make it expand and may blow the lid off.
Avoid all these problems by storing your paints under stipulated temperatures. It should not be extreme on both extend.
How Can You Avoid Paint Dripping?
1. Do Not Paint Directly from The Paint Can
Get an old container or a margarine tub and pour some amount of paint into it.
You will keep adding depending on the scale of the painting you intend to execute. You can also devise a painting can from old metal or plastic coffee cans.
Carefully dip your painting brush in the container and save the original paint can from getting drippy.
By all means, do not allow any amount of paint to drip over. This not only helps prevent loss but also keeps your work neat.
2. Punch Some Holes On the Rim
Also, add some more holes all around the perimeter of the can.
You can use a hammer and nail. The best alternative is to use an awl. It is more efficient.
This ensures that paint that strays on these parts during the painting flows back into the can. It will help you avoid losing your paint through dripping.
3. Put A Rubber Band Around the Can
Put it from top to bottom. It is an equally ideal way of preventing the dripping of paints.
From there, you can dip your brush and wipe off excess paint from the rubber band.
You must make sure that the rubber band fits pretty well on the can to avoid potential problems.
4. Apply Paint Bush Management
Let’s face it. It is hectic to clean paintbrushes.
All painters know this. And that makes paint brush management more important. Paint like a pro.
Avoid dipping your brush too much into the paint.
There shouldn’t be any excess painting running off the brush onto the brush’s handle and on your hands.
Once you are done painting, wrap your bush carefully using aluminum foil or a plastic bag.
5. Take Your Brush Out of the Freezer
Keeping the bush in the freezer helps to keep its bristles free and allows for easier cleaning.
But it should not stay for so long in the freezer. Allow it there for not more than 30 minutes, after which it should be removed and wrapped in proper material like aluminum foil.
This will always keep it as good as new and enhance the hassle-free painting experience.
Final Words
As you have seen in this article, paint skinning can be a menace.
Nonetheless, you can avoid it if you abide by the tips discussed in this article.
Proper painting procedures are called for to ensure that a tidy and appealing job is done. We hope this was helpful.
Sources
https://homesteady.com/how-2365144-avoid-paint-skins-buildup-paint.html
