How long does it take for the first coat of paint to dry completly?

Question

Im using flat paint

im using flat paint and i live in florida so the humidity is pretty high

Answer 1

Right after you finished painting the first coat right away you can start adding the second coat.

Answer 2

Hi Brooke,

I live in Florida and after multiple thousands of gallons of paint; I'd suggest SATIN not flat; no offense. Flat is more porous and has far less "cleanability"

It isn't strictly Humid all the time; and in some respects picking a time to paint helps.

I'm working on a facade at the moment that surrouns two sets or French Doors. Both are 10 ft. wide. By the time I have coated from one side to the other; I'm able to second coat. That's approximately an hour. Certainly that isn't the case in every case; but no latex should take longer than a couple hours to air dry. If it is taking lonegr then perhaps the paint job should be put off until another time.

Our heavy rainy season is about over at any rate; and in Central FL it looks to be OK for the next 3 days at least. Cooler; partly Sunny; etc.

I also follow the weather in the trades work I do.

Steven Wolf

Answer 3

I'm assuming you are using flat LATEX paint. I will also assume you've primed the walls before painting.

if the above is true, the first coat will be dry in about two to four hours. DO NOT try to paint a second coat, right after the first coat! Wait two to four hours, and put your hand on the wall. Does it feel a bit damp? if so, wait until the next day! If not, then take a sanding pole, with 150 grid sanding paper, and very lightly and quickly sand the wall. Do Not press hard! this will give the second coat better adhesion, and highlight any bumps or flaws in the paint. Remove these bumps, wipe down the wall with a slightly dampened rag. Feel the wall again! is it clammy? does it feel a bit damp? If so, wait an houror so.

now you can apply your second coat, and you will have a professional looking finish, that will last for years!!

Answer 4

Actually, there is no simple answer. It depends on the surface you're painting. It depends on the humidity in the air, the temperature in the air. 50% humidity, temp above 70, I'd recoat flat paint in about four hours.

Answer 5

With water based latex paint 5 hours is usually sufficient. Oil-base, on the other hand, overnight. And you have to put up with the smell.

Answer 6

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