Opening a heavy bucket lid like 5 gallon or 10 gallon bucket is quite tricky and requires some technique and the right type of tool. As a DIY user, it gets difficult to open the lid of a heavy bucket of paint especially when you are trying for the first time. The selection of the right tool and the right technique can make your job easier. But this is possible only when you are aware of how to open a 5 gallon bucket of paint.
In this guide, we have covered almost every aspect related to how to open a 5 gallon bucket of paint. We have done our research to find out the best way to open a 5 gallon bucket and I’m sure after reading the blog thoroughly you will be able to open the bucket like a pro.
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How to Open a 5 Gallon Bucket of Paint
Finding the right technique and right tool to open a 5 gallon bucket is possible if you follow some instructions and techniques. Selecting the right tool is the crucial step otherwise; you will end up like a mess.
Paint Bucket Opener
A paint bucket opener is a specifically designed opener used to open a paint bucket seamlessly. It is a C-shaped strong plastic tool with a handle to work with easily. A paint bucket opener can easily be found at your local hardware store. It is quite simple to use.
Position the upper part of the tool over the upper edge of the lid and the lower part of the tool below the rim of the lid. Adjust the tool securely, apply a force, and open the lid in an upward direction.
Suppose, if the lid comes with tabs then it can be very difficult to open the lid. It is best to apply the force at the center of the tab. If you feel the whole lid does not open at once, try to break the seal in some portions and then move the tool to unseal the whole lid.
Flathead Screwdriver/Plier
If you do not have a paint bucket opener, you can use another tool to open the bucket. If you have pliers or flathead screwdriver, you can easily open the 5 gallon bucket of paint.
To open a bucket lid, place the flathead screwdriver under the rim of the lid, and apply the force upward. Work on it until you can break the seal. You have to be very careful when you are using the screwdriver because it might damage the bucket and create a mess.
Pliers can also help to open the lid of 5 gallon bucket of paint. You are required to follow the same technique as you apply with the paint bucket opener tool. Choose the tool on available resources and the nature of the paint bucket.
How to Open a 5 Gallon Bucket of Paint Without Tool
Suppose you have gathered your supplies to paint the wall, you are about to start and suddenly you observe that the tool to open the paint bucket is missing. Don’t panic. Make use of a butter knife to open the heavy bucket of paint.
Place the upper part of a butter knife under the rim of the lid. Move the butter knife in an upward position to open the bucket. Do not apply excessive force as it will cause holes or marks on the paint bucket.
How to Close the 5 Gallon Bucket of Paint Again
You have painted the room or any wall in your home and the paint is left the main concern is how to close the lid to make it usable next time. Before closing the lid, wipe away any paint residue or wet paint from outside the bucket especially, in the area where the lid is open or closed. When the paint dries it will be difficult to open the lid again.
Close the lid tightly otherwise, the paint will start to dry over time. Put the lid on the bucket; use a hammer or any other tool to tap the lid to reseal. Wash the paint brushes or a roller too to use it again.
Tips and Tricks to Open a 5 Gallon Bucket of Paint
- Select a smooth and stable surface where you intend to place and open a bucket.
- Selection of the right tool can make your work more efficient and well-organized. For this purpose, you can use a paint bucket opener, screwdriver, plier, and butter knife.
- After the selection of the right type of tool, it is important to know the right position, force, or technique. Choose a spot from where you will open the bucket easily.
- Use a rubber mallet or a hammer to loosen the lid of the bucket in case the lid is tight or stubborn. Make use of a rubber mallet gently on the sides of the lid.
- If the lid is stubborn or stuck, soak the bucket of paint in warm water not too hot for about 10 to 15 minutes. The warm water will make it easier to remove the lid with any tool easily.
- While opening process, avoid bending the lid extremely as you will make it difficult to open the lid of the paint bucket.
How do you open a tight plastic lid?
If you are experiencing a tight plastic lid and you want to open it successfully, there are multiple options. The first thing is to use rubber or latex gloves while opening a tight plastic lid. The gloves are designed to give additional power. Hold the plastic lid with one hand and rotate it with the other hand.
Take warm water in a bowl or bucket but not should be so hot. Place the plastic bucket in the bowl or you can run warm water on the plastic lid. The heat will help to loosen the lid without damaging the lid. The hot water will make it easier to open the tight plastic lid.
A rubber mallet is one of the effective tools used to open the seal of the plastic lid. You can tap the edges of the lid with a rubber mallet. Be cautious not to apply excessive force. If you do not have a rubber mallet, you can tap it with the back of the spoon or anything else you have.
There are specific tools designed to open a stubborn or tight plastic lid such as a lid opener, flathead screwdriver, plier, and a butter knife. Use available resources and take your time while opening a tight plastic lid.
How do you open a Behr paint lid?
Behr paint’s lid is typically designed for easy opening. There is no hard and fast rule to open paint cans but you have to take a little care to prevent damaging or spilling. To open the lid, locate the groove near the lid’s edge. This is the point from where you can start to open. Use a flathead screwdriver or the butter knife into the grooves and start to loosen the seal. Lift the lid until the lid is completely opened.
How do you dispense paint from a 5 gallon bucket?
Due to the size and the weight of a heavy 5 gallon bucket, it is quite challenging and needs extra care while dispensing. However, with a little effort and patience, you can make your job easy. Wear all safety gear such as gloves, masks, or goggles. Mix the paint before dispensing. To control the flow of the paint, attach a paint spout. Paint spouts are available at a hardware store or you can purchase them online.
Carefully, tilt the bucket and pour the paint into your desirable container or tray. Pour slowly to prevent spills. If the spills accidentally fall onto the surface, wipe away immediately.
Conclusion
Opening a 5 gallon bucket of paint is not the same as opening a 1 gallon bucket of paint. A large bucket of paint means the heavy weight of the bucket and usually, it can weigh more than 50 pounds. If you are concerned about how to open a 5 gallon bucket of paint or you are trying to open it for the first time, don’t worry. We have a solution to your problem. In the above guide, I’ve mentioned some ideas and tools to make your home improvement project easier.
