How To Get Rid Of Old Paint?

You may think you can just toss paint cans away with the rest of your household trash, but in many cases you will be in for a rude awakening. When you are ready to get rid of old paint you will need to check on state, county and city laws and ordinances that cover toxic items and chemical disposal. For example, in many places you can throw latex paint away after it dries in the can. The cans are sometimes accepted as standard landfill refuse because this paint is water-based.

But when you have oil-based paints or other cans of chemical products you will have to transport the items to specific collection points. Most city landfills and landfill districts are not allowed to accept these paint-related articles. In fact, some collections are scheduled for a few times during the year. For example, a local city government may have an “all trash” day at which paint and paint-related items are collected.

The contents of oil-based paint are generally non-toxic, except for the additives and solvents that keep the paint in a liquid state. This is what causes problems for landfills and private refuse collectors. Even latex paint has some ingredients that shouldn’t be placed in the landfill in large amounts. Start with less paint so that you don’t have a lot left over. This will save you some headaches and stress later on.

The best place to start is with a professional painter or contractor. When you have a collection of paint cans that each hold only a couple of inches of oil-based paint, ask them what they do with leftover paint. They can also help you understand the local and state regulations for disposing of different kinds of paint. Remember that you should treat latex paint differently than other paint and finishing materials.

Use That Paint
Some people who use paint on a regular basis keep all the different colors of paint and use the remaining amount on a future project. Separate latex paint from oil-based paint and store them somewhere cool and dry. When the time comes to repaint an outside wall or structure, for example, mix a few cans of the paint together to make a gray/tan base coat or primer coat. The color won’t matter that much! Of course, you will have to make sure that the containers are sealed tightly. The paint may still dry up and become unusable in a couple of years.

You may be able to get rid of old paint by giving it away. Many communities have a non-profit theater that welcomes donations of paint and building materials. This helps them construct their stage scenery at little or no cost. Schools sometimes take this type of donation as well. In recent years, local governments and park districts have taken paint as donations. The workers then use the donated paint on graffiti-covered walls, tennis courts, sidewalks etc. Know your local laws and ordinances before you start to get rid of old paint.

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