Why Does Your Paint Smell Bad After Application?

A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a space, breathing new life into your home or business. But what happens when your newly painted walls start to give off an unpleasant smell? A lousy odour after painting can be off-putting, and while it’s familiar, it’s not something you have to live with. This guide explores the reasons behind the bad smell of paint and how you can avoid or fix it, especially with the help of professional services.

What causes paint to smell bad after application?

A few factors can contribute to that firm, unpleasant smell you might notice after applying paint. Here are some of the main reasons:

• Chemical reactions: When paint is applied, it undergoes a chemical reaction as it dries. This process releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs), often responsible for their strong odour. These VOCs can linger in the air, especially if the paint is high in chemicals.
• Humidity and temperature: High humidity or fluctuating temperatures can interfere with drying, leading to unpleasant smells. Paint that takes too long to dry can give off fumes longer than usual, increasing the intensity of the scent.
• Paint type: Some paints, particularly oil-based ones, are known for their strong odour due to the solvents they contain. Low-quality paints may also contain more harmful chemicals, producing more pungent smells after application.

Could the weather affect the paint’s drying process and odour?

Weather plays a significant role in how paint dries and the odour it releases. Sydney’s seasonal changes can impact painting projects, especially if you’re painting outdoors. Here’s how weather can affect your paint job:

• Humidity: High humidity slows the paint drying, allowing odours to linger. If you’re painting in humid conditions, the paint might remain wet for longer, increasing the risk of unpleasant smells.
• Temperature: Extreme heat or cold can interfere with the chemical reactions in the paint. Cold temperatures slow down drying, while heat can cause the paint to dry too quickly on the Surface, trapping the smell underneath.
• Rainy conditions: Applying paint during or just before rain can introduce moisture into the paint, causing it to take longer to dry and emit more pungent fumes.

Is the paint you’re using contributing to the foul smell?

Not all paints are created equal; some are more likely to produce strong smells than others. Here are a few reasons why the paint itself could be the culprit:

• High VOC content: VOCs are chemicals released into the air as paint dries. High-VOC paints produce a strong smell and can also contribute to poor air quality. Choosing low-VOC or zero-VOC paints can significantly reduce odours.
• Cheap paint: Lower-quality paints often contain more solvents and chemicals, which affect the paint’s durability and contribute to pungent odours.
• Oil-based paints: These tend to have a more pungent smell than water-based paints, as they contain more solvents.

How can poor ventilation make the paint smell worse?

Ventilation is vital in how quickly paint dries and how long the odour sticks around. If your space lacks airflow, the paint smell may be more noticeable and linger longer. Here’s why poor ventilation can make the smell worse:

• Lack of air circulation: Fumes get trapped inside without proper ventilation, creating a stuffy atmosphere and more concentrated odour.
• Slower drying time: Poor airflow can slow the drying process, giving the odours more time to build up.
• Health risks: Inadequate ventilation can lead to poor air quality, which not only worsens the smell but can also cause headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues.

Could mould or mildew be the reason your paint smells terrible?

Sometimes, a musty odour after painting could indicate a deeper problem—mould or mildew. Here’s how mould can contribute to the smell:

• Pre-existing mould: If mould or mildew is present on the walls before painting, the moisture and lack of preparation can trap the odour underneath the fresh coat of paint.
• Poor surface preparation: Painting over damp or mouldy areas without treating them properly can lead to foul odours, especially as the mould grows beneath the paint.
• Moist environments: Areas like bathrooms and kitchens are prone to mould; without proper paint, you might notice a musty smell after application. Preventing mould growth in damp areas is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment and avoiding potential health risks.

Is using expired paint causing the odour?

Paint does have a shelf life, and using old or expired paint can lead to unpleasant surprises, including a bad smell. Here’s why expired paint might stink:

• Bacterial growth: Expired paint can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which creates a sour or rancid smell when applied.
• Thickened paint: Paint thickened over time might not apply correctly, leading to inconsistent drying and a more pungent odour.
• Poor coverage: Expired paint may not adhere well to the Surface, causing prolonged drying and lingering smells.

Can a professional painting service prevent foul paint odours?

Hiring a professional painting service can help you avoid the problem of lingering paint smells. Here’s how they can make a difference:

• Expert product knowledge: Professional painters understand which paints work best for different environments. They’ll recommend low-VOC paints, especially in humid or high-traffic areas.
• Proper surface preparation: Professionals ensure walls are clean, dry, and free from mould or mildew before painting. This preparation prevents odours caused by hidden moisture or bacteria.
• Efficient ventilation: Expert painters know how to create proper airflow during and after painting to help reduce paint odours and speed up drying.

How can you get rid of the paint smell faster after application?

If you’ve already painted and are dealing with a strong odour, there are ways to speed up the process of eliminating the smell:

• Use air purifiers: Running an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove paint fumes and improve indoor air quality.
• Baking soda and charcoal: Place baking soda or activated charcoal bowls around the room to absorb the odour.
• Essential oils: A few drops of essential oil in water can create a refreshing scent to counteract the paint smell.

What are the best paint choices for reducing foul odours?

Choosing the right paint can significantly reduce the likelihood of a pungent smell. Here are some options that Mi Painting & Maintenance recommends:

• Low-VOC paints release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, making them a healthier and more eco-friendly option.
• Water-based paints: Unlike oil-based paints, water-based options dry faster and emit fewer fumes.
• Anti-mould paints: Anti-mould paints can prevent mildew growth and eliminate musty odours in moisture-prone areas.

Don’t let paint odours ruin your home!

At Mi Painting & Maintenance, we understand that your interior space should be more than just a place to live or work. It should reflect your style and be a source of comfort and inspiration. We’re committed to providing high-quality painting and plastering services that transform your space and ensure a healthy and pleasant environment.

Contact Mi Painting & Maintenance for odour-free painting. Our friendly team will provide expert advice, a personalised quote, and a timeline that suits your needs. Let us help you create a healthier, more beautiful home or workspace.