What Affects Spray Paint Dry Time?

What Affects Spray Paint Dry Time? Did you know that the average spray paint can take up to 24 hours to dry? In some cases, it can take even longer. This is because the paint needs time to cure or harden.

However, spray paint dry time for a particular type of paint and surface can be impacted by weather, ambient air temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind speed.

The article will teach you everything about the different types of paints available on the market today and provide some general tips for working with them both indoors and outdoors.

It also includes information about best practices like using ventilation masks or properly painting clothes so you don’t have any bad surprises when handling these products.

Below are the factors that affect spray paint dry time. Know which ones can help you set up your surroundings for a quick-drying result.

Factors that Affect Spray Paint Dry Time

Ambient air temperature for dry time

How quickly does the paint dry at ambient temperature?

Ambient air temperature is the optimum factor affecting spray paint dry time. If the air is hot, it will speed up the drying process of your paint because hot air can hold more moisture than cold or cool air.

When the ambient air temperature is below 50°F, it can take several hours for the paint to dry.

Find a well-ventilated area in your surroundings with indirect sunlight where you can dry the paint without worrying about any other factors that might affect your spray paint dry time.

At an ambient air temperature of between 50 and 90°F, expect your paint to dry in approximately 1-2 hours.

At an ambient air temperature above 90°F, the drying time will be reduced by up to 20%.

So if you are painting on a hot day with no shade or breeze around, you should know that it might take longer than expected for your spray paint to dry.

Humidity affects paint spray dry time

Humidity is another factor affecting the spray paint dry time. It has a great impact on the drying time of your paint because humidity contributes to the formation of water molecules in the air, which can affect or slow down the process of evaporation. This means that if you are in an area with high humidity, you must wait longer for your paint to dry.

When the relative humidity is above 50%, the best way to dry wood is to allow your paint to dry for at least 24 hours before being able to touch or move it again.

This is because there might be some residual moisture that can affect the quality of your final result and can cause problems when it comes to application.

If the relative humidity is below 50%, then it will only take your paint 1-2 hours before being able to touch or move it again.

However, if you are in a very dry environment with less than 20% humidity, then allow more time for evaporation. As there might be some moisture in the paint itself.

If you are painting indoors and trying to use a sprayer, then you will need to wait at least 24 hours for your paint to completely dry. This is because even if the relative humidity inside is lower than outside, the air within your enclosed space is already very dry.

Wind speed affects the paint spray drying time

The wind is also another factor to consider regarding spray paint dry time.

If you are painting outdoors, choose an area where the wind speed is between 0 and 10 mph. Because higher wind speed can increase your drying time by decreasing the moisture the wind has carried away.

If you are painting indoors and using a sprayer, then wind speed is not a factor that affects your spray paint dry time because you have no control over it.

Exposure to direct sunlight of the spray paint

How to cure spray paint when working outdoors? Choose a location in the shade if possible because direct sunlight can increase the temperature of the painted surface, which can affect your paint’s drying time.

If you are painting indoors and using a sprayer, then exposure to direct sunlight does not matter because you have no control over it.

Number of spray paint coats being used

How long does it take for a coat of paint to dry? If you apply several coats, your paint may take longer to dry.

However, if each layer is thin, it will still cure within the average time frame of 24 hours or more. If you spray each layer too thick, you may experience longer dry times.

Amount of spray paint used

The more paint used in one coat, the thicker and heavier the paint will be. Thicker and heavier paint can take longer to dry and cure. It might also lead to drips or runs if left unattended for an extended period of time.

To learn how to tackle the above factors that affect spray paint dry time, we need to learn how does spray paint works.

How Do Spray Paints Work?

Spray paint works by passing through a small opening, often called a nozzle, and breaking up into tiny droplets. The propellant in the can then blasts these droplets out of the can and onto the surface you’re painting.

Spray paint essentially works as a two-stage process:

The first stage is when the paint leaves the nozzle; after that, it’s propelled onto your object by compressed air coming from an aerosol can. During this time, the solvent in the paint evaporates and leaves pigments and polymers behind on your surface.

Solvent (mostly water) evaporates from the top layer of paint at a certain rate. Once all solvent has evaporated, the paint is no longer able to spread itself and begins to “set” into a firm layer.

The paint sets when the rate of evaporation from below balances up with the rate of dissolution and precipitation beneath (the molecules at higher layers begin bonding to the ones them) from above.

The time it takes for the solvent to evaporate is known as the “drying time” of the paint.

15 Facts about Paint Dry time

1. To work correctly, spray paints need oxygen to help the paint particles dry.
2. The pigments in spray paint can dry quickly when you expose these pigments to air.
3. They can also contain a propellant that helps the paint come out in a fine mist.
4. The propellant is generally a mixture of propane and butane.
5. To ensure the propellant works correctly, spray paint cans have a plastic or metal pin. Squirt the paint out of the can to push back the pin.
6. If you have already pricked a hole through a can of spray paint, it will not work even though it appears to be full of paint. This is because air will have already entered the can and caused a change in pressure, preventing any paint from coming out.
7. The material that makes up the pin and keeps it within the can must be strong enough not to melt or break down when exposed to high temperatures.
8. This allows the pin to move to the top of the can with the push of a button and keeps it from breaking when exposed to high temperatures.
9. This allows you to spray out paint without having to hold the button down at all times but is also strong enough not to break if sprayed directly with a lighter or some other heat source.
10. After spraying, the pin will return to its original position, so you cannot reuse the paint in the can.
11. The entire process of spraying out air and then replacing it with spray paint is known as “topping off.”
12. Ideally, most spray paints should be used within one month of opening them for the best results. This is because the propellant may begin to break down and cause problems.(However, this is not an exact science, and sometimes people will use paint for years after it has been opened and deemed satisfactory. You have to experiment with each can of spray paint you buy separately to determine how long it lasts before it becomes unusable.)
13. The better the quality of the spray paint, the longer it will last after being opened. Brands like Krylon are very popular because they claim to have much better propellant systems inside, which allows their cans to be much more efficient at using minimal amounts of product.
14. Topping off is also possible with these high-quality cans of spray paint, but it is recommended that you do not keep doing this because it can cause problems.
15. If the propellant is exposed to too much air after being topped off multiple times, it could begin to break down. So if you have a high-quality brand of the fastest dry spray paint like Krylon, use it all before the propellant degrades.

What Is the Difference Between Dry Time and Spray Paint Cure Time?

The terms “dry time” and “cure time” can be used interchangeably in most cases, but they do have slight differences.

In general, the term “dry time” refers to how long it takes for a new layer of paint to completely dry after being applied on top of an existing layer of paint. In the case of a multi-layer paint job, for example, this means how long it takes for each individual layer to dry.

What does it mean for the paint to cure? The term “cure time” refers to a package’s threshold before a given product can be applied onto surfaces and/or objects without causing damage.

In other words, if an object is too sensitive or vulnerable to a given paint’s curing process, the manufacturer will include this information in their product description.

Differences In Dry Time and Cure Time For Different Types of Paint?

So how long does it take for certain paints to cure and dry?

Oil-based paint

This type of paint takes the longest to dry compared to other types and can take up to 24 hours. However, the curing process can take up to 30 days.

Latex paint

Latex paint dries in just a few hours but needs up to 30 days to cure completely.

Acrylic paint

Acrylic paint dries the fastest in just a few minutes. However, it takes up to two weeks to fully cure.

Enamel paint

Enamel paint is usually fast drying and takes up to 24 hours to dry, but it can take up to two weeks to completely cure.

Polyurethane paint

Polyurethane paint is usually fast dry and takes up to 24 hours to dry, but it can take up to 30 days for the paint to cure fully.

Epoxy paint

Epoxy paint takes up to 24 hours to dry but requires up to 30 days for the paint to reach its full cure.

Concrete paint

Concrete paint takes the longest to dry, usually up to 24 hours. It also requires up to 30 days for it to heal completely.

Before purchasing or using any product for dry and/or cure times, the manufacturer will always advise you to check the product specifications. You’ll be your brand’s hero if you learn about the drying phases before buying so that you don’t have to waste time waiting. Instead of waiting, you may focus on other things while still finishing them. Let’s learn.

The Four Stages of Sparay Paint Drying Time

How long to let the spray paint dry? There are four stages of drying: surface dry, touch dry, hard dry, and thoroughly dry. Each stage takes a different amount of time to complete, and the type of spray paint you use will also affect how long it takes for the paint to dry.

Surface Dry

Surface dryness is when the paint has begun to evaporate, and you observe spray paint is still tacky. You cannot put your finger on it without having the paint stick; however, if you touch it with a cloth, you will feel no stickiness.

Touch Dry

Touch dry is generally 15-30 minutes after the surface dries. At this point, you can run your hand over it and not have the paint stick. The paint is still wet, though, and if you touch it with a cloth, you will still feel some stickiness due to the moisture that was left behind.

Hard Dry

Hard drying is an hour or more after surface drying; however, this can vary depending on how thickly you apply the paint and the climate. At this point, you can feel the surface with your finger and not have it stick to your skin or cloth.

Thoroughly Dry

Thoroughly dry is when there is absolutely no wetness present and the paint has set completely. For example, Acrylic paint drying time on wood thoroughly is about 48 hours.

How Long Does Spray Paint Take to Dry On Different Surfaces?

How long should you let the spray paint dry on various surfaces? The drying time for spray paint can vary depending on the type of paint, the weather conditions, and the surface that you have applied. In general, it can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours for the paint to dry completely.

Type of surface being painted

Are you unsure how long to let spray paint dry between coats? Typically, the exact time it takes for spray paint to dry depends on three main factors. The surface onto which you spray the paint, surface temperature, and humidity levels all affect how quickly the paint dries.

How long does spray paint take to dry on wood?

How to dry spray paint faster on wood?

Wood can be very absorbent, so it may take more time for the spray paint to dry on wood surfaces. Depending on the type of wood, this could also vary.

In wood, spray paint usually takes 30 minutes to an hour to dry completely. However, if the weather is humid or wet, it may take a bit longer for the paint to dry. If you are in a hurry, you can use a hairdryer to help speed up the process.

How long does it take spray paint to dry on metal?

How long does spray paint take to dry on metal? For metal, spray paint will usually dry within a few minutes. However, if it is raining or humid, the paint may take a little longer to dry completely.

Spray paint bubbling on metal is a common problem, and you can avoid it by simply waiting for the paint to dry completely, regardless of how humid it is outside.

Spray paint dry time On glass

How long does spray paint take to dry on glass? Some spray paints will dry almost immediately on glass because of the chemical properties of glass. Glass is smooth and nonporous, meaning that the paint flattens out into a single layer almost immediately after applying it.

Spray Paint Dry Time On Plastic/Surfaces

How long for spray paint to dry on plastic? Although spray paint can be applied to plastic, it does not properly dry on these areas.

Spray paint will leave the surface looking spotty and unfinished when it dries. Because, unlike other surfaces, plastic is able to block the paint from drying. When applying spray paint to plastic surfaces, use primer or sealant for the spray paint to dry correctly.

Spray paint will sometimes leave a sticky residue when you apply it onto plastic surfaces. You can remove the residue by hand-wiping or with a cloth and some warm water. If you wait until the paint is completely dry, however, only an aggressive adhesive remover would work there.

Rubber typically takes spray paint longer to dry than many other surfaces. Rubber does not have a porous surface, instead, the company uses mostly elastomer polymers. In general,  spray paint on rubber usually takes at least several hours to dry completely.

How To Dry Spray Paint Quickly? 10 Effective Pre-Cautions

Before applying spray paint, be sure to take precautions such as using an air filter or wearing gloves. Knowing how to properly dry and clean up after spraying paint can help you do a better job in less time.

1. Pre-treatment is key for minimizing the drying time for spray paint, so ensure the surface you are painting is clean and dry. You can wash with water and dishwashing soap or use an all-purpose cleaner to remove dirt and other contaminants. Once it’s clean, let it dry thoroughly before continuing to the next step.
2. Drying is always easier with the help of an air compressor or a heat gun. If you don’t have access to them, you can let the paint cure on its own for about 24 hours. When you are ready to clean it up, be sure to use acetone-based cleaners to remove any remaining paint.
3. Avoid using paint thinners or lacquer cleaners because they can damage the surface. You can use a tack cloth to pick up any debris left behind after cleaning up. By doing this, the final coat will stick better and look nicer.
4. Cover any surfaces in the area you may damage by the paint, including the floor.
5. If you want to use trash bags or painter’s tape to protect surfaces, be sure to use them in advance. Doing so will make clean-up easier and help prevent problems with dry times.
6. Put a smaller container of paint into a larger container of hot water to warm it up. Then, test the paint on a nearby surface to ensure it is ready to use again.
7. If you have a particularly complicated pattern that will take hours to paint, paint it on a flat surface first. Then once the piece is dry, you can mount it as you desire after allowing for drying times.
8. When using aerosol spray paint, always make sure to wear protective eye goggles. Keep your eyes closed while spraying to prevent any damage to them in case an accident occurs. 
9. Store spray-paint cans and other aerosol paints (relative to their size) in a cool and dry place. In this way, spray paint won’t dry.
10. If you are using spray paints that contain an odor, only work in well-ventilated areas with the windows open.

There are some things to remember when using spray paint for an art project.

11. First of all, the surface that you have painted should be very smooth. Furry surfaces can cause drips to form, which ruins the effect. 
12. Also, you should use a few coats of paint if you want it to appear darker or more opaque. 
13. If you want the paint to appear more transparent, then use one coat of paint and let it dry for about an hour before applying another coat.

A Quick Guide to Spray Paint Drying

How warm does it need to be to spray paint?

If you paint outside, the temperature of where you live will affect how quickly your paint dries. Paint in colder weather (below 60 degrees Fahrenheit) for longer dry times (up to 48 hours).

Painting in warmer temperatures (above 70 degrees Fahrenheit) speeds drying periods by up to six hours. Working in cold temperatures can cause your paint to take longer to dry if you want to resume work once the weather warms. 

Windy days also help speed up dry times, so painting on a windy day outside will reduce dry times. The wind carries the paint particles away from your surface, which speeds up the drying process.

How to spray paint in cold weather?

If you do not have an air compressor or heat gun, try using a hairdryer in a cold setting to speed up drying time. Do not use the hot setting, as this may cause damage to your paint job. Be sure to hold the hairdryer approximately 12 inches away from the surface rather than holding it in one spot. Be sure that the air is blowing over your paint.

If you are painting in cold temperatures but want to resume working within the next day or so, use a hairdryer in a cool setting and aim it at your piece. This will warm up the paint and speed up the drying process. Again, be sure not to hold it too close to your piece.

You can also try warming up your paint with a lower-temperature space heater. Be sure to place it under your dry rack and keep it set to low.

1. Allow your paint spray cans to warm up in an enclosed area for 10 minutes before you begin painting. This helps heat up the paint inside, which speeds up the spray release time, making your paint dry faster.
2. If you are painting at night, try using a lamp with an incandescent bulb to speed up drying times. Place it under your dry rack and keep it set to low.
3. Spray in thin layers of paint and wait until each layer is almost dry before applying it to the next coat. This will help decrease the amount of time you spend waiting for your piece to dry.
4. If you are using spray paint, consider using a fan-type nozzle. This gives you more control of where the paint you have sprayed, allowing for better coverage. Plus, it saves time to clean up the excess mist.
5. Speed up your drying process by giving yourself plenty of dry space to work with. Ideally, you want at least 1 ft on each side for your painted surface, with another 6 ft behind it. This will allow you to be safe while working with the paint.
6. I recommend it for light coats; when using spray paint, wait at least 45 minutes before applying another coat. Heat can also speed up the process, but you must be careful about heat-sensitive spray paint.
7. It is advisable to purchase at least two cans of spray paint for a touch-up job. So you can have enough paint for your initial coats if you need to make an additional touch-up pass.
8. For complete surface coverage, wait at least three hours before applying another coat. For pieces with many colors, wait 24 hours for each extra coat.
9. High humidity can increase the time it takes for paint to dry. When applying a second coat of paint on a humid day, dry the first coat thoroughly before the second coat. If you are not sure if the paint is completely dry, wait another 24 hours.
10. If you want to reduce the drying time, avoid having too many layers of paint. The more coats you put over each other, the longer it will take the paint to dry. It is best to work with just one or two layers of color and then allow 24 hours between spray paint coats.
11. When it comes to spray-painting drying times, always remember to follow each individual label’s instructions and safety warnings. These typically list dry times for different conditions, including low and high temperatures and humidity.
12. If using spray paint, remember that different colors may require different drying times. A base coat will always have a shorter drying time than a color layer.
13. To avoid problems with your paint running or dripping, allow enough drying time before applying topcoats such as fixative, varnish, or other liquids. Your spray can label should state how long you must let the surface dry before applying extra coats.
14. When using spray paint, never hold the can in one place for over a few seconds. If you do not want to use it, an entire paint can for one session. I recommend that you shake and mix the cans before spraying. However, if this is impossible, only try to cover about 20 square inches at a time.
15. If your paint is not dry to the touch, you should avoid going over it with dry colors. Wait a few days, and then use a wet paper towel to remove any residue on your dry colors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Spray paint is a medium that can be used to create stunning works of art. In the above piece of content, we learned about how to spray paint dries and what affects the drying process before you start your project. 

The key takeaway from this detailed article about spray paint dry time is that :

If you are using a spray gun, then it is recommended that you use one with an air compressor. Unlike handheld sprayers, air compressors can deliver higher pressure and volume for faster drying time. Especially if the area is quite large or you are using glossy paint.

Whether you are looking for advice on which type of paint to buy or want an idea for something new to try out in your own home-based studio. Paintsvision is your one-stop destination for all things artistic.

Our team is always on the lookout for the latest products available in the industry, as well as exploring new brands, styles, and techniques – so that our readers can get a complete overview of their options.