Priming in the cold

[RastlinD]

Guys -

 

Normally I do all my priming when it is warm outside but I was planning on priming a few models today. Its about 55-60 Degrees in my garage. The primer I use is spray can based and is being kept in the garage. Will I have any issues with it?

[Brother Icculus]

55-60 degrees isn't cold enough to make a difference on the priming itself. However, You should keep your primers inside, because if it does get too cold out there, then it can ruin the paint. 

 

I have been working with temperatures here between -5 and 20 degrees. I primed the other day when it warmed up, it was 28 degrees. I had everything at room temperature, I went out there, primed a few things and then brought it all back in to dry. No problems. I think you will be fine in 55 degrees, but like I said, keep your primers inside, that way when you start, all your paint and models are at room temp.

[Kilofix]

If it is really cold, spray in thin layers. And bring in to dry for some time before the next layer. Don't try to cover all gaps in one go by spraying a whole bunch of layers at one time. Otherwise it will come out gooey and shiny (which isn't good for primer coat).

 

And, yeah, keep your paints inside.

[Ammonius]

Here is what I do when the temperature is at the low end of the usable range of spray primer:

 

Keep your models inside right up until you are going to the garage. If possible, put them near a heater vent so that they are warm and dry.

 

Keep the primer in the same place, room temperature or warmer. You want the primer to be as close to the temperature of the models.

 

Before going outside, shake the primer right side up and upside down for more than a full minute, Set a timer, or you'll want to end sooner. Get everything mixed up before starting.

 

When you go to the garage, don't fool around. Get out, set up your models, hold your breath, and prime them. Bring the can of primer back inside with you. If you will need to flip the models and prime the other sides, do this just as quickly.

 

if it's really cold, you can do the following:

Get a big shoe box or similar that has a tight-fitting lid. Line the inside with paper towels taped to the bottom and sides. Reinforce the edges and corners with more tape, to make the box more airtight. Prime your models as listed above, and as soon as you can touch the models outside, load them into your drying box, and put on the lid tightly. Then you can bring the models inside where it's warmer, and the paper towels will catch the volatiles coming off the models as the primer cures. I usually put my drying box in the utility room near the furnace - the warmest and dryest part of my house.

 

Hope this helps :)