PAINTING HINTS: DRY TIME

[ SAMPLE TEXT ONLY - from Valspar.com ]

There are several conditions that can effect dry time as solvents leave the surface and polymers cure.

PREVENTING DRY TIME PROBLEMS

TEMPERATURE, HUMIDITY & AIR CIRCULATION

Apply paint when conditions for temperature and humidity meet label recommendations. Always allow extra time in cooler temperatures and/or higher humidity. Painting too late in the day may not allow adequate drying time before temperatures drop in the evening. An important thing to remember in interior painting projects is that increased air circulation will cause a faster dry.

FILM BUILD

Be sure to follow label instructions for recommended square footage. If you apply too thin a coat it may dry too quickly, leaving brush and roller marks; however, too thick a coat may dry very slowly and result in a patterned surface. Instead, apply multiple thinner coats (rather than fewer thick coats) for a faster dry.

APPLICATOR

Too heavy an application using the incorrect applicator can create a heavy, thick film coating that will take much longer to dry. Incorrect (too long) nap length in a roller cover will automatically cause excess application. Refer to specific label instructions for recommended applicators.

PENETRATING FINISHES

If penetrating finishes such as stains feel tacky or appear to not dry, determine if there was uniform porosity on the surface. Application of a stain over a sealed surface will result in stain pooling on top, which will not feel dry.

• Before applying penetrating products, perform a porosity test in several places, including areas such as corners that do not get much foot traffic.
• Do not apply a second coat of a penetrating product. The first coat will somewhat seal the surface, and the second coat might pool on top.

RESOLVING DRY TIME PROBLEMS

If conditions are causing too slow of a dry time, do your best to adjust these conditions. In interior applications, you may be able to decrease humidity, raise temperatures or increase air circulation. In exterior applications, you will probably have to wait until environmental conditions change.

The applicator you are using may also be a factor in dry time. If the applicator is causing too much or too little product to be applied, switch applicators. Tech Support can help with a recommendation.

The information in this document is for general informational use and is not all-inclusive. Since application variables are a major factor in product performance, this information should serve only as a general guide. Valspar assumes no obligation or liability for use of this information.