Can You Paint in Winter? Yes, You Can! Here’s How to Do It Right
Can you paint in winter? Here’s what you need to know before you start...
It’s no surprise — summer is traditionally seen as the ideal time to paint. But here in Perth, where winters are mild compared to the eastern states, painting isn’t limited to just one season.
In fact, with a bit of planning, you can paint in winter — both inside and out. While rain and cooler temperatures pose some challenges, Perth’s climate still offers enough dry, sunny days to get the job done right. Whether you're updating your interior or refreshing your exterior, here’s what you need to know about painting in the colder months.
Is Winter a Good Time to Paint in Perth?
Winter in Perth brings cooler temperatures and regular rain, especially from June through August — but it’s far from freezing. Daytime highs often hover around 17°C, with plenty of crisp, clear days in between the showers. While the rain could present some challenges, the overall humidity levels are still lower than in many eastern cities (like Brisbane or Sydney), where it can stay humid even when it’s not raining. Perth’s winter air is generally drier once the rain passes, which helps paint dry more evenly.
That said, timing is everything. While it’s absolutely possible to paint in winter, especially with the right products and preparation, you’ll need to plan around the weather. Avoid painting on wet surfaces, steer clear of forecasted rain, and take advantage of those mild, sunny windows in the middle of the day. With the right approach, winter painting in Perth can be just as effective — and often less disruptive — than tackling it in the summer heat.
Exterior Painting in Winter
What’s Possible — and What’s Not
Yes, you can paint outside during winter in Perth — but only when conditions are right. The key is to choose dry, sunny spells where the temperature stays above 10°C for several hours. Painting on a warm, clear day can produce excellent results, especially with modern exterior paints designed to cure in cooler weather.
What you want to avoid is painting on damp surfaces or too close to rain. If the surface hasn’t fully dried after rain or morning dew, the paint won’t adhere properly. Likewise, if rain is forecast within 24 hours, there’s a high risk of streaking, bubbling, or premature peeling. In short: exterior painting is possible in winter, but only with good timing and proper prep.
Tips for Successful Exterior Painting
If you're planning to paint the outside of your home during winter in Perth, timing and preparation are everything. Here are some practical tips to help ensure a professional, long-lasting finish:
- Check the forecast
Only paint when you’ve got at least 2–3 dry days in a row, with no rain predicted during or immediately after application.
- Paint during the warmest part of the day
Aim for late morning to early afternoon (around 10am to 2pm), when temperatures are more stable and surfaces are dry.
- Ensure all surfaces are dry
Wait for any rain, dew, or condensation to completely evaporate before painting. A moisture meter can help confirm surfaces are ready.
- Use quality paint designed for cooler weather
Opt for premium exterior acrylics that are formulated to dry and cure in lower temperatures — many are rated for use above 10°C.
- Avoid windy or overly shaded areas until the sun hits
Wind can cause uneven drying, while shaded areas may stay cooler and damper for longer.
- Allow for extended drying time
In winter, drying takes longer. Give each coat ample time to cure fully before applying the next one.
With a bit of patience and smart planning, you can still get outstanding exterior results — even during the winter in Perth.
Interior Painting in Winter — Often Ideal
Why Winter’s Great for Indoor Projects
Winter is actually one of the best times to tackle interior painting projects in Perth. While exterior jobs rely heavily on the weather, indoor spaces can be painted year-round — and winter brings some surprising advantages.
- More availability from painters
Winter is typically a quieter season for painters, meaning you’ll likely have more flexibility when booking your job — and possibly faster turnaround times.
- Less disruption to your lifestyle
Since people tend to spend more time indoors during the colder months, it’s often easier to notice areas that need freshening up. Plus, you’re more likely to be home during the day, which makes access easier and coordination smoother.
- Climate control works in your favour
Using heaters or reverse-cycle air conditioning keeps the indoor environment warm and dry, which helps paint cure properly. With good ventilation and low-VOC paint options, indoor painting during winter is safe, convenient, and efficient.
Ventilation & Drying Tips
Good airflow is essential when painting indoors — even in winter. Proper ventilation helps the paint dry evenly and ensures any fumes dissipate quickly.
- Crack windows to allow fresh air in
Even on chilly days, opening a few windows slightly can create a gentle cross-breeze that speeds up drying without letting too much cold in.
- Use fans or dehumidifiers if needed
If natural airflow isn’t enough, use a pedestal fan to circulate air or a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the room — especially helpful on rainy days.
- Choose low-VOC paints
Most modern interior paints are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them safer to use in enclosed spaces during winter. These formulas have minimal odour and are ideal for family homes. With the right approach, your interior paintwork can dry beautifully and safely — no matter the season.
How We Work Around Winter Weather
At Perth Professional Painters, we know how to work around Perth’s weather consitions without compromising on quality.
- Flexible scheduling to suit the weather
We keep a close eye on Perth’s weather patterns and adjust our schedule to make the most of dry, sunny days. If the forecast shifts, we’ll reschedule quickly to avoid delays or rushed work.
- Thorough preparation every time
Before we start any winter job, we check for hidden moisture, ensure surfaces are fully dry, and use primers suited to cooler conditions. This careful prep helps prevent problems like peeling, bubbling, or poor adhesion.
- Local knowledge makes all the difference
From the coastal breeze in Fremantle to the cooler mornings in the Perth Hills, we understand Perth’s microclimates and how they impact painting. That experience means better results, no matter where you’re located.
With a bit of know-how and the right tools, painting in winter isn’t a problem — it’s just part of what we do.
Need Advice or a Free Quote?
Thinking about painting your home this winter? Whether it’s a single room or a full exterior repaint, our team is here to help. Get in touch with our house painters in Perth for expert advice, a free colour consultation, and a no-obligation quote. We’ll assess your space, work around the weather, and recommend the best time and approach for a flawless finish — all backed by decades of local experience. Contact us today and let’s bring your vision to life, winter and all.
