Painting Your House in Winter? Read This First
By Lloyd Sleator.
Thinking about painting your house this winter but not sure if it’s a good idea?
You’re not alone. A lot of people assume winter isn’t the best time for painting, especially outdoors. But thanks to modern paints and techniques, house painting in winter —both inside and out—is more doable than ever.
In this blog, we’ll explore what to consider before you start painting your home in the cold months, the
best practices for winter painting, and whether you should tackle the job yourself or hire a pro like
LS Decorators.
Can You Paint a House in Winter?
Yes, you absolutely can. Winter brings its own challenges like cold temperatures, frost, and damp conditions. But if you're prepared—and use the right materials—it’s possible to get excellent results.
Interior Painting in Winter
In fact, interior painting in winter is often a great idea. The air is usually drier, which helps paint cure faster. Plus, painters tend to be less busy this time of year, so it’s easier to schedule a job quickly.
Exterior Painting in Winter
Exterior painting in winter is trickier, but not impossible. Many paints are now specially designed to work in low temperatures—even as low as -10°C. You just need to plan carefully and follow the right steps.
Pros and Cons of Painting in Winter
✅ Advantages:
Easier to book painters
(quieter season)
Lower humidity indoors = faster drying times
Cold-weather paints available for exterior work
Great time for indoor updates like walls, ceilings, and trim
❌ Disadvantages:
Exterior jobs need perfect timing and preparation.
Cold weather affects how paint sticks and dries.
Can be uncomfortable or dangerous without proper gear.
Some surfaces may hold moisture or frost.
Tips for Painting Your House in Winter
1. Watch the Weather
For outdoor projects, timing is everything. Make sure the forecast is dry, and both daytime and nighttime temperatures stay above the minimum for your paint (usually around 2°C or higher unless using specialist paint).
2. Use Cold-Weather Paints
Use paint that’s made for winter. Brands like Sandtex Trade 365 All Weather and Sandtex X-treme X-posure are built for low temperatures and wet conditions. These paints:
•Can be used in temps as low as -10°C
•Dry quickly (some within 20–30 minutes)
•Resist rain and moisture almost immediately
3. Prepare Your Surfaces
Cold weather can cause moisture and mould buildup, especially outdoors. Make sure surfaces are clean, dry, and free of frost. Remove any dirt, algae, or peeling paint.
4. Use the Right Tools & Technique
Apply thin coats, not thick ones. Thick paint doesn’t dry well in the cold. Use rollers and brushes that work well in low temperatures and allow enough time between coats.
When Should You Hire a Professional Painter?
While some painting jobs are easy enough to do yourself, winter exterior painting is best left to professionals. At LS Decorators, we’re experienced in handling winter conditions and use the best products for year-round work.
We:
•Know how to work safely and efficiently in cold temperatures.
•Use top-quality winter-ready paints.
•Offer advice on color, timing, and materials.
•Provide clean, reliable service with minimal disruption.
FAQs About Winter House Painting
Can you paint your house exterior in winter?
Yes, with the right low-temperature paint and good weather conditions. Paint like Sandtex Trade 365 works in temps as low as -10°C.
Is it okay to paint interior walls in winter?
Yes! In fact, winter is a great time to paint inside your home. Lower humidity helps paint dry faster and more evenly.
What temperature is too cold to paint a house outside?
Most regular paints shouldn’t be used below 10°C. But special winter paints can be used at 0°C or even lower, depending on the brand.
How do I know if my walls are dry enough to paint in winter?
Make sure the walls are free of condensation, frost, or mould. Use a moisture meter if you’re unsure, or ask a professional.
FAQs About Winter House Painting
Who are LS Decorators?
LS Decorators is a trusted painting and decorating company specialising in both residential and commercial projects in Sligo and surrounding areas.
Do LS Decorators work during the winter months?
Absolutely! We’re fully equipped to handle both interior and exterior house painting in winter, using the right materials and methods for the season.
What areas do LS Decorators cover?
Co. Sligo and all surrounding areas. Depending on the project size we can serve any county in Ireland!
How can I get a quote from LS Decorators?
Simply call us at 086 240 8311 or visit [here] to book your free consultation today.
Final Thoughts: Is House Painting in Winter a Good Idea?
If done right, painting your house in winter can actually be a smart move. With proper prep, cold-weather paints, and a reliable team like LS Decorators, you can give your home a fresh look—without waiting for summer.
Got a winter painting project in mind?
Contact LS Decorators today to get started! [ HERE ]