With temperatures climbing, now is the time many of us start tackling long-overdue outdoor painting jobs, from refreshing tired fences to giving front doors, sheds and garden furniture a new lease of life. But while warm, dry weather might seem like the perfect excuse to get the paintbrush out, painting during the hottest part of the day can quickly ruin the finish.
Too much direct sun and heat can cause paint to dry too quickly on the surface, preventing it from curing properly and leaving behind visible brush marks, streaks and patchy coverage.
So, when is the best time to paint outdoors? Below, we explain why timing matters — and the simple steps that will help you achieve a smoother, longer-lasting finish.
Why you should stick to the 7am to 11am rule
Many people assume warmer weather creates the ideal painting conditions – but experts say that's one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
‘Whilst the warmer weather creates the perfect opportunity to refresh outdoor spaces, many people assume the hotter it is, the better the conditions are for painting. In reality, the middle of a heatwave can be one of the worst times to pick up a brush,' explains Lucy Steele, resident colour expert at Valspar.
During the hottest part of the day, paint can dry too quickly before it has had a chance to properly level and bond with the surface, which can lead to visible brush marks, uneven coverage, and a finish that won't last as long.
Instead, Lucy recommends starting early. ‘I suggest painting between 7am and 11am where possible, as temperatures are typically cooler, surfaces haven't yet absorbed the day's heat, and the paint has time to dry at a more controlled rate.’
How to prepare before painting outdoors
Preparation becomes even more important when temperatures rise. This is why it’s essential to ensure surfaces are clean and cool to the touch before opening a tin of paint.
‘You should also plan the project around shaded areas where possible, and ensure paint is stored out of direct sunlight,’ says Lucy. ‘Taking a little extra time to prepare can make a significant difference to the final finish and help avoid common hot-weather painting problems.’
By starting early, avoiding sun-soaked surfaces, and taking a few extra minutes to prepare properly, you'll give your paint the best chance of drying evenly and lasting for years to come.
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