How long can paint be stored?

[Dan Hunter]

I bought a couple gallons of Parker Paint...the stuff people use to paint their aluminum boats and such. I intended to paint my truck with the stuff but never got around to it. They've been stored in my laundry room for seven years unopened in a cupboard between 68 and 78 degrees.

What's the chances they can be shaken and used? How would you check it to determine if it's still good?

 

[Diamondpilot]

Only one way to find out.


Chris

 

[tractchores]

If its well sealed it should be fine, but will need lots of shaking. I've used 10 yr old house paint before.

 

[schmism]

forget trying to shake it and just get one of these

 

[SPYDERLK]

forget trying to shake it and just get one of these

This will entrain some air. Settling in an unopened can is best addressed by a long shake ... but only if you know someplace with a machine that will do it for you.
larry

 

[bigtiller]

If you have the time, would turning the can upside down for a few days help to incorporate the bottom sludge and make the mixing easier?

 

[Dan Hunter]

Good call on turning it upside down.

Shake with a machine? You're saying I can't toss it in the bed of the truck and let it bounce around for a month?

I'm taking it to Lowe's and asking if they'll rattle it for me. I'll try a bit under the hood and see if it holds well.

 

[Tig]

If it does mix well and look good. Test it before applying to your project.
I've seen old paint that did not cure properly. It remained soft. More so in the sun.

Edit: you beat me to it on the test patch thoughts. Good luck!