KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – PAINT CARE AND DISPOSAL
I've seen many people out painting this week. The unusually warm weather we've been having in the Chicago area has prompted many to
get out and spruce up the house.
Sometimes when we open up old paint, we see a gluey mess. One of the best ways to get your paint back to its old self is to add a few drops of solvent and shake it up. If this doesn't do the job, it's probably lost.
After you're done painting the next time and before you close the can, cover first with a sheet of plastic wrap. You can close the lid securely by pounding it down with a rubber mallet. Make sure to store the can upside down. This will prevent any air from getting inside the can and the paint should be fresh for touch ups.
If you have unusable paint, do not throw it out! Paint is considered "hazardous waste" and must be disposed of properly either by you or by professionals. Most municipalities have specific policies in place for the disposal of hazardous waste, so be sure to call your local village office. In Chicago, go to the "hazardous waste disposal" section or go to the city's main page and do a search for "hazardous waste disposal." You can also go to http://www.earth911.com/ for recycling options.
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
