Keep your cool

Minimise thinner use in clear coats

Excessive thinner, especially in hot conditions, can cause the clear coat to dry too quickly, leading to dry spray or poor flow. Staying within the lower range of the TDS-specified ratio helps to maintain better control and finish quality.

Avoid direct sunlight on products

Never store paint products, thinners, or hardeners in direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and UV rays can change a product’s viscosity and chemical balance, affecting its performance. Always keep materials in a cool, shaded storage area, ideally within the temperature range specified by the manufacturer.

Also, remember to always replace the lid on hardeners as soon as possible after pouring. Exposure to air, even briefly, can cause chemical breakdowns, reducing the product’s effectiveness and pot life.

Cool down the spray booth between jobs

Spray booth temperatures can rise significantly after each job, especially during back-to-back work in the summer. Cooling down the booth between cycles is essential to avoid carry-over heat affecting the next application. Overheated panels can make it difficult for the paint to stay wet, leading to uneven finishes or dry spray.

Use a larger nozzle at high temperatures

In hotter environments, switching to the largest nozzle setup recommended in the TDS can make a noticeable difference. A larger nozzle allows for greater material output, which helps the paint remain wet on the surface and improves coverage. This is especially important for basecoats and clear coats where a consistent, wet film is crucial.

Mix per layer for larger repairs

For larger repairs in high temperatures, we recommend mixing product per layer rather than preparing a full batch. Heat accelerates curing, shortening pot life and changing viscosity mid-application. By mixing fresh product for each coat, you maintain the correct consistency and avoid issues like clumping, uneven coverage, or product waste.

Spray during the cooler parts of the day

Timing is everything in summer refinishing. Schedule painting for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day. Cooler conditions help maintain better control of viscosity, spray pattern, and drying times. Not only does this improve finish quality, but it also reduces stress on your team and equipment.

You could also coordinate your shop workflow to prioritise prep and non-paint activities during midday hours and reserve your spray booth time for when conditions are most favourable.