Under the right conditions, latex paints dry to the touch within one hour. It’s one of the fastest-drying paints because it utilizes water as a solvent.
However, there are certain scenarios where latex paint may dry much faster in less than an hour. In such situations, it becomes difficult to smooth out brush strokes. It’s even harder for you to pull off some of this paint from the wall because it has already dried.
In today’s article, we will discuss what causes latex paint to dry too fast, how to prevent this, and everything else you may need to know.
What Causes Latex Paint to Dry Too Fast?
Several culprits could be behind the latex paint drying too fast. Common causes include;
• Low Humidity Levels
When applying any type of paint, it’s very important to check the humidity levels. The preferred humidity level for painting latex is around 50%. Anything less than that will cause the paint to dry much faster.
When the humidity is low, it sucks out the moisture from latex paint. As a result, you may notice the latex paint drying prematurely.
If you find yourself painting in an area with low humidity, introducing a humidifier would be a good idea. This device will make the painting process relatively easier.
• High Temperatures
The ideal temperature for applying latex-based paints is from 50°- 85° F. If the temperatures are above 90° F, it will speed up the evaporation of water in the paint and cause it to dry much faster.
As tempting as it may be for you to apply latex paint on hot sunny days, it’s best to wait for much cooler days.
Also, if you are painting on a sunny day, there is a good chance that you may place a fa next to you. The airflow from the fan can also speed up the drying of latex paint.
It’s also important to mention that excessive ventilation can also cause latex paints to dry too fast.
• The Surface Being Painted
Another factor that also causes latex paint to dry too fast is the surface it’s being painted on. Certain surfaces will dry much faster.
Examples include surfaces that have been previously painted with latex. Also, if you are painting a dry wood surface, the drying period will be faster.
How Do I Prevent Latex Paint from Drying Too Fast?
Now that you know some factors that cause latex paint to dry too fast, let’s look at how you can prevent this scenario.
After all, if you are dealing with paint drying too fast, the finish may not look so good, and you will have a hard time applying the paint.
1. Paint Thicker
There are two types of painters; those that apply thin strokes and others who apply thicker strokes. If you belong to the first category, there is a good chance that latex paint will dry much faster on you.
Painting thicker allows you to get adequate amounts of latex paint on the walls. The thicker the paint, the longer it will stay wet and the easier it will be for you to spread it out.
2. Use Water Mist
If you happen to be applying latex paint on a hot and sunny day, it’s advisable to equip yourself with a water mist.
The purpose of a water mist is to reintroduce the moisture that may be lost due to evaporation. When you spray the water mist on your latex-painted walls, you can prevent it from drying too fast.
As effective as water mist is at keeping latex paint wetter for longer, you should spray it with caution. Too much water can lead to the dripping of the palette as it increases the water-to-paint ratio. Spray only small amounts of water mist.
3. Utilize Latex Additives
There are a couple of latex additives which are known as extenders, retarders, or conditioners. These additives are designed to increase the drying time of latex paint.
Therefore, if you have been dealing with latex paints that seem to dry out too fast, you can use some of these latex additives.
Latex additives are better than adding water because they do not affect the water-to-paint ratio. However, they also need to be used with caution.
If you use too many additives, the latex paint may not fully cure, which will be a much bigger problem. You should also know that additives increase the drying time by a few minutes. Don’t expect to get an extra hour or two.
4. Wet Highly Absorbent Surfaces Before Applying Latex Paint
Surfaces such as wood that are highly absorbent need to be wetted first before applying latex paint. The reason behind wetting these surfaces is to prevent them from sucking in the moisture from the latex paint, thus accelerating the drying process.
5. Work Quick Enough/Divide the Painting Surfaces into Smaller Portions
If you have followed all the above tips and the latex paint is drying too fast, then there is a good chance that you are working too slowly.
Referring to what I said in the beginning, latex paint dries very fast. Therefore, if you are applying latex paint to a surface, you should work faster.
If you are new to painting, it’s understandable that you may not be able to work fast. So your best solution is to divide the painting surfaces into smaller portions. Working in smaller sections allows you to apply and spread the paint smoothly before it dries.
Alternatively, you can hire an experienced painter who is familiar with working faster. This will attract some extra costs. You need to weigh your options and determine the best approach.
6. Go for High-Quality Latex Paints
When shopping for latex paints, it’s advisable to go for high-quality options. Most low-quality options comprise weak formulas that dry up pretty fast. But if you choose high-quality brands, you will enjoy longer working times. Plus, the finish will be better.
Does Thinning Latex Paint Prolong Its Drying Time?
When you add water or thin latex paint, you increase the moisture ratio, therefore, it takes longer to dry. This is both advantageous and disadvantageous.
The thing about latex paint is that the finish depends heavily on the water ratio. If too much water is used, there is a high chance that the paint’s color won’t be vivid. You need to be careful when thinning latex paint.
What Should I Do If Latex Paint Stays Tacky Hours After Painting?
Even though latex paint dries up pretty fast, there are certain scenarios where it may remain tacky hours after you have painted it. This is mostly caused by inadequate surface preparation.
If you paint latex paints on a greasy and filthy surface, there is a good chance that it will not dry because the filth is interfering with the adhesion of the paint to the surface.
Another cause of latex paints not drying is when applied in a moist environment.
Should You Use Latex Paint?
Apart from the fact that latex paint dries too fast, there are many reasons why you should use this type of paint.
Latex paint is one of the most popular paints because it has a superior formula. It is relatively easy to apply and clean.
I love latex paint because it’s non-flammable and off-gasses very few VOCs. This type of paint is less vulnerable to cracking and peeling.
Therefore, latex paint is an excellent option worth considering once you get past the drying too-fast issue.