How Long Does Paint Last? How To Tell If It’s Bad
- Devin Spahr
- Apr 16
- 4 min read
If you’re like most homeowners, you have several cans of paint collecting dust in your garage and aren’t sure if they’re still usable. While it’s always smart to hang onto any extra paint after a project, it’s common to wonder just how long paint is good for. After all, there’s no reason to take up storage space with paint cans holding dried-up or chunky paint. In this article, we’ll talk about how to know if your paint has gone bad and the proper way to store paint to give it the longest shelf life possible.
How Long Does Unopened Paint Last?
Unopened paint can last surprisingly long if stored the right way. For latex or water-based paint, you’re usually good for up to 10 years. Oil-based paint can last even longer—sometimes 15 years or more. But storage matters a lot. If the can is sealed tightly and kept in a place that doesn’t get too hot or freeze, the paint should stay usable. Garages can be risky if temperatures swing too much. A basement or inside closet is usually a better bet. The older the paint gets, the more important it is to check it before using, even if it’s never been opened.
Manufacturers often stamp a “best by” date, but that doesn’t mean the paint goes bad right after. As long as the lid stays sealed and no air gets in, it won’t dry out or get contaminated. You might need to stir it thoroughly if it's been sitting for a while, but it can still go on smoothly.
How Long Does Paint Last After Opening?
Once paint has been opened, it obviously won’t last as long. Air exposure starts to break it down, even if you seal it afterward.
● Latex Paint: Once opened, latex paint can last anywhere from 3–8 years if sealed tightly and stored in a controlled environment.
● Oil-Based Paint: Opened oil-based paint may last 5–10 years, especially if the lid stays tight and it’s stored away from heat sources.
● Chalk or Milk Paint: These types usually spoil within a year after opening, even with proper storage.
How Long Does House Paint Last?
House paint shelf life depends on the type and also how it’s stored. Interior and exterior paints don’t last forever, even unopened. Typically, interior latex paint holds up for about 7–8 years. Exterior paint can last a bit less due to its stronger formula, closer to 5–7 years.
Does Paint Expire?
Yes, paint does expire—but not in the same way food does. Over time, the ingredients in paint can separate, thicken, or develop mold. Even if it looks okay at first, expired paint might not stick well or dry evenly. The older it gets, the more likely it is to give you trouble during a project. If you're unsure, test it on scrap material first. If it smells bad, looks chunky, or won’t mix smoothly, it’s probably past its prime.
If you go ahead and use old or expired paint, it can cause more headaches than it's worth. The finish might look uneven, dull, or blotchy. Sometimes it won’t dry right, leaving a tacky or rough surface. Worse, it might start peeling or flaking way sooner than it should. You could end up wasting time and needing to repaint the whole thing. A bad batch of paint can also mess with your brushes and rollers, making the job harder than it needs to be.
How Long Does Paint Last in a Bucket?
Paint stored in a plastic bucket doesn’t usually last as long as paint in a sealed metal can. Buckets don’t seal quite as tightly, so air and moisture can sneak in more easily. If it’s been opened, paint in a bucket might only stay good for a year or two. Even unopened buckets can be hit or miss depending on how and where they are stored.
How Do You Store Paint?
When it comes to storing leftover paint, the most important thing is keeping air out. Exposure to air is what causes paint to dry out, separate, or go bad faster than it should.
Here are a few helpful steps to store your paint the right way:
● Wipe away any paint from the rim of the can before sealing it. This helps the lid close tight.
● Put the lid back on, then place a flat board or piece of scrap wood over the top. Gently tap it down with a hammer. This keeps the lid even and gives you a much better seal.
● Use a permanent marker to label the can with the room in which you used the paint and the date (month/year). This saves a lot of guessing later.
● Store the paint indoors where the temperature stays between 50°F and 90°F. Avoid spots like attics, garages, or anywhere near furnaces and water heaters.
● If there’s only a small amount of paint left, consider transferring it to a smaller airtight container or mason jar. Less air inside means it’ll last longer.
How Long Is Paint Good For Conclusion
It would sure be nice if paint stayed good forever, but that’s just not the case. Over time, it can go from usable to unusable without much warning. If it smells off, feels lumpy, or won’t mix back to a smooth texture, it’s probably time to let it go. A quick test before starting your project can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
If you’d rather skip the guesswork and want the job done right, reach out to Spahr’s Painting. We’re a local Tucson company known for reliable service, honest pricing, and quality results. Whether it’s a full repaint or a few rooms that need freshening up, our friendly team is ready to help. We're based in Tucson but we serve the entire area, including Marana, Oro Valley, and Sahuarita! We do every kind of house painting you need, including exterior painting, cabinet painting, and interior painting.
Commentaires