Work During Cooler Hours
Whenever possible, schedule your painting tasks during the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. Auburn, WA experiences its hottest weeks in late July and early August, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Set a reminder to take water breaks regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty.
Use a Shade Tent or Canopy
Set up a shade tent or canopy near your work area to create a shaded spot where you can take breaks and cool down.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing that provides sun protection. Long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats can shield you from direct sunlight.
Apply Sunscreen
Use a high SPF sunscreen on exposed skin to prevent sunburn and protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
Use Cooling Accessories
Consider wearing a cooling vest or a cooling bandana around your neck to help regulate body temperature.
Take Frequent Breaks
Painting in extreme heat can be physically taxing. Take regular breaks in the shade to rest and cool down.
Use Fans and Misting Systems
If possible, position fans around your work area to create air circulation. Misting systems can also help lower the ambient temperature.
Work in Smaller Sections
Instead of tackling the entire exterior at once, focus on smaller sections to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat.
Stay in Tune with Your Body
Pay attention to how your body feels and watch for signs of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating. If you experience any of these symptoms, take a break and cool down immediately.
Work with a Partner
Having someone to work with can make the job easier and provide an extra set of eyes to watch for signs of heat-related issues.
Safety First
If the heat becomes too extreme, it's essential to know when to stop and take a break. Severe heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Listen to your body, stay vigilant, and prioritize your well-being while working in high temperatures.
Just yesterday, we worked six straight hours in over 100 degrees and called it early when all we had left was patching on the second story. When feeling dizzy, it's not time to balance and patch in the sun.
Quick Tips for Painting in Scorching Heat
🕑 Work early/late
🚰 Hydrate regularly
🌞 Sunscreen & shade
🧢 Light clothing
🚿 Frequent breaks
⚙️ Fans/misting
🚫 Avoid peak heat
🔥 Know heat-related signs
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