Have you ever wondered how to dispose of paint in Tucson, Arizona? Is it necessary? What are the laws and fees associated with paint disposal in Tucson? Where can you take leftover paint to be disposed of or recycled? What is the best place to store paint? Can paint go bad? In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know in order to properly dispose of paint in Tucson! If you need a painter in Tucson, we can help you. We offer exterior painting, cabinet painting, interior painting, and more. We also do stucco repair and other related services!
Paint Disposal in Tucson. Why is it Important?
Most people today use three types of paint: latex, oil-based, and water-based. Certain paints may contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Paint made prior to 1971 may contain lead and paint made before 1991 may contain mercury. It is essential that paints containing these hazardous chemicals be discarded carefully in order to prevent them from damaging the environment. Oil-based paints are also considered hazardous and need to be disposed of at the proper facility.
Water-based paints can be disposed of at a hazardous waste facility as well. However, it’s also ok for you to dispose of latex paint on your own. We suggest, however, that you pour leftover latex paint into a box filled with shredded paper or kitty litter in order to soak up the contents which can then be easily thrown away with your trash. You could also consider donating unused latex paint to a local church, youth group,scout group, or Boys and Girls Club.
Best Places To Dispose Of Paint In Tucson
In Tucson, you can dispose of old paint through the City of Tucson’s Household Hazardous Waste program:
Drop-off locations: You can bring paint to the Los Reales Sustainability Campus or the Main Site on Sweetwater Drive. There are also several mobile locations throughout the month.
Community drop-off events: Check the program’s calendar for upcoming community drop-off events.
Pick-up services: You can request a home pick-up service for a fee.
The City of Tucson’s Household Waste Program is a community initiative designed to help prevent the improper disposal of hazardous materials which could damage the environment if discarded in a landfill. Along with old paint, you can also drop off old batteries and electronics. Once you drop off your old paint or other hazardous materials, trained professionals handle and dispose of them.
Paint Disposal Fees
For Tucson City residents, drop-off of hazardous waste is free. However, If you live outside of Tucson city limits, you will be charged a $10 drop-off fee.
Tips for Paint Disposal in Tucson
Only wet paint will be accepted.
Buckets of paint must be at least half full.
Store unused paint properly.
Empty cans: You can dispose of your empty paint cans in your curbside trash.
Spray paint: If your spray paint can is nearly empty, we suggest you use it up as a little extra coat. Once it’s empty, you can dispose of it in your curbside trash.
Can Paint Go Bad?
Unopened paint typically has a long shelf life. Oil-based paint that hasn’t been opened has a shelf life of fifteen years, and unopened latex-based paint has a shelf life of ten years. It's important to note that unopened paint can still go bad. There are several different ways you can check to see if your paint has gone bad. Properly sealed and stored oil-based paint is much less likely to spoil than latex paint, but it's still important to check.
Signs of Spoilage for Oil-Based Paint
Texture: Stringy texture, curdles, or lumps
Separation: Separation of solids and liquids. If the paint doesn’t mix well after being stirred, it has probably gone bad.
Mold or Mildew: Mold or mildew on your paint’s surface is a sure indicator of paint spoilage
Smell: Foul or rancid smell is usually an indicator of spoiled paint.
Signs of Spoilage for Latex Paint
Consistency: A rubbery or extra thick texture indicates spoiled paint.
Separation: Lumps. If your paint still has lumps in it after you’ve stirred it, it’s probably gone bad.
Smell: A strong or foul odor is a good indicator of spoiled paint.
If you notice any of the paint spoilage signs mentioned above, don’t use this paint because it has most likely gone bad and won’t give you good results if you use it.
Where Should You Store Paint?
Paint should typically be stored in a dark, cool, dry, space where the temperature is usually between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. This could be a basement, closet, or cabinet that’s out of reach of children and pets. Keep your paint containers elevated in order to avoid contact with a cold or damp floor. A damp floor can rust and damage your paint containers/cans.
What Not to Do When Disposing of Old Paint in Tucson
Hopefully, this article has been helpful in letting you know simple ways to safely dispose of leftover paint. It's also important to note, however, what you should NOT do with old paint. Do not simply pour it down the drain or throw it out with the trash unless you have properly treated it first. We don’t recommend air drying old paint because of the extreme fume build-up.
How To Dispose Of Paint In Tucson, Arizona: Conclusion
Now you know the ins and outs of how to dispose of paint in Tucson, AZ. If you have any questions about disposing of unused paint, painting the interior or exterior of your home or business, or any paint-related questions, contact us at Spahr’s Painting today. Our team of skilled painters has years of experience working with a variety of surface materials, and we guarantee beautiful and long-lasting satisfaction on all of our projects! We service Tucson and surrounding areas.
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