paying for the job

I guess if unsightly and you have the paint you could paint it yourself and pay him if he shows up. Around here it is tough to get anyone to come to the house and they might even charge $100 to come and then charge more for the work.

That was my first thought - if he's any good, and only charges $ 100. for half-day of work - he's probably very busy ! John T.

Yes, if you're able to and you'd rather not wait for him.

Not that. Communication is better than no communication. You still owe him, after all.

IMHO, there is such a thing as too cold to paint. As an amateur woodworker, it can definitely get too cold to use wood glue or to apply various finishes. I don't use paint, generally, but I expect it'd be the same.

If possible, do the painting yourself so that the job is finished, then offer to pay him the full quoted amount, leaving it to him to counter with a discount for the painting work. That would leave everyone in a good position.

and DEFINITELY pay the man!!!! Around here ( and currently half of north america!!) too cold is NOT AN EXCUSE!!. It is a VERY valid reason!

To cold for paint to dry?

Never thought about it, never painted in cold. Google says this though: Latex paint can be used in cold weather if you use a paint formulated for low temperatures and the temperature doesn't drop too low.

What paint to use Low-temperature latex paint Contains coalescing agents that help the paint cure in cold temperatures. Some paints can cure at temperatures as low as 35°F

But they cure at the speed of an enamel, not a latex. Slow drying, and not as hard, at least to start.

And they still require the paint and the surface to be "warm(er)" when applied.

I never thought about it either but if lowest they go is 35F, well a good piece of the country was in that or lower, just recently. We are looking forward in Virginia Beach to hitting 32F (as of yesterday, haven't checked today).

If windchill is a factor, we are about 26F right now. This weekend we get to a more normal 40's for the season here.

Hello Carol. Looks like we are neighbors. I'm on the Peninsula.

I also approve of your choice in newsreaders!