Homax Paint Hardener 3.5 oz, Solidifies Leftover Latex Paint
How to Use It
- Open the can of leftover paint and stir the powder in.
- Leave it 15 to 20 minutes for the paint to set solid.
- Once it is solid, put the whole can out with normal household waste in most areas.
- It also works to solidify water, which is useful for bilges and spills.
The Important Limitation
It works on latex and acrylic paints and stains. It does not work on oil based or alkyd paint, and no solidifier makes oil paint acceptable in household waste. Oil based paint remains household hazardous waste and has to go to a collection facility. If you are not sure which you have, check the label for water clean up. If it cleans up with water, this will harden it.
One Thing to Check Locally
The manufacturer’s claim is curbside disposal of the solidified paint, and that is the normal outcome. But curbside acceptance of solidified latex paint is a local rule, not a national one, and PPG cannot warrant what your municipality does. A quick check with your waste authority before you buy a case of these is worth two minutes.
Specifications
| Product | Homax Paint Hardener, PPG product 3535 |
| Chemistry | Sodium polyacrylate, the superabsorbent polymer used in nappies |
| Packet size | 3.5 oz |
| Hardens | Up to two thirds of a gallon of latex paint |
| Working time | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Works on | Latex and acrylic paints and stains, and water |
| Does not work on | Oil based and alkyd paints |
Handling
The safety data sheet classifies the powder as a combustible dust and an eye irritant. Wear eye protection, avoid raising a dust cloud when you pour it, and do not heat it. Sensible precautions for a powder rather than anything exotic.
Not sure how many 50 LB bags of polymeric sand your paver project will need? Try our Polymeric Sand Calculator