While stuck at home for the holiday break, you may be considering tackling some home improvement projects. If painting is on your to-do list, there are some to keep in mind about taking on this task during the winter.

"I actually like doing interior tasks like painting during the winter months," said Kazantzis Real Estate Owner and Broker Andrea Kazantzis. "By getting these types of home improvement projects done while it's cold out, I won't have to spend time indoors when the weather breaks."

Paint will Dry Faster

A benefit of painting in the winter is the cold, dry air will cause the paint to dry faster. However, to get this benefit, you'll want to crack open a window to let in some of the colder air. This will also allow you to properly ventilate the room as well.

Faster dry time speeds up the whole project since you won't have to wait as long between coats. During the summer, it's more humid, which increases the dry time and expands the total time the project will take.

Keep in mind, the surface you're painting should be above 60 degrees. If the walls are too cold, the paint may not adhere to them properly. This isn't a problem for interior facing walls. But for exterior facing walls, you may have to turn the heat up a bit to bring the walls to the proper temperature.

What About the Exterior?

Painting the exterior of your house during the winter months is a tricky proposition, especially in the northeast. However, it can be done.

Typically you need two dry days where temperatures won't dip below 35 degrees (even at night), so you may have to wait until you see a stretch of mild weather in the forecast.

That said, there are specialty paints and primers formulated for colder weather. They have chemicals to help increase the freeze resistance, There are also additives that will keep the paint from thickening in colder temps, giving you a more professional finish.

Save Money on a Professional

Since winter is not the prime time for painting, you may be able to hire a professional to do the job at a discounted rate. Customers can save 20% to 40% off peak-season prices during the winter. Again, if it's for an exterior job, you'll have to keep an eye on the forecast, as freezing temperatures or winter storms will scuttle any outdoor painting projects.

Increase Home Value

If you're planning to put your house on the market in the spring, get a head start now. Winter is the perfect time to spruce up your home's interior. A fresh coat of paint can really go a long way to improving the aesthetics of your home.

More Tips: