When Should You Apply a Second Coat of Paint?

PDF download Download Article
Learn when to recoat latex- or oil-based paints, plus factors that can change drying times
PDF download Download Article

You finally got that new color up on the wall, but now you’re sitting and watching the paint dry. Would it really be that bad to put on a second coat right away? Yes it would, and here’s why. Even though paint can feel dry to the touch after an hour or so, it can take at least 3 hours for latex paint or up to a full day for oil paints before you can recoat or touch them up. There are a few other factors that can add onto how long you wait, so keep reading to find out everything you need to know before putting on another coat.

Things You Should Know

  • Wait between 2–4 hours for water-based latex paints before putting on another coat. Give oil-based paint 24 hours before you apply a second coat.
  • Paint will usually dry to the touch within 1–2 hours, but wait the full recoat time before you add a second coat.
  • High humidity, low temperatures, and poor ventilation can all increase drying time.
  • If you’re not sure that your paint is ready for a recoat, always err on the side of caution and wait another 24 hours or so.
Section 1 of 5:

General Drying Times

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Latex paints are water-based, so the moisture evaporates a bit quicker after you apply them and you can do multiple coats on the same day. Latex paints might feel dry to the touch within 30–60 minutes, but they need just a little longer to fully dry before you touch them up or apply another coat. Different finishes have slightly varying drying times, so always be sure to check the paint can to see what it recommends. [1]
    • Matte: 2 hours [2]
    • Eggshell: 2 hours [3]
    • Semi-gloss: 2 hours [4]
    • Gloss: 4 hours [5]
    • Chalk paint: 4 hours [6]
    • Ceiling paint: 2 hours [7]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Oil-based paints are great for getting a smooth finish that’s more resistant to damage, but they take a lot longer to dry in between coats. [8] Even though oil-based might feel dry to the touch after a few hours, let it dry completely overnight to ensure that your next coat adheres properly. [9]
    • Oil-based paints are usually used for exteriors, trim pieces, doors, and any other materials where you want to hide brushstrokes.
    3. Advertisement
Section 2 of 5:

Factors That Affect Drying Time

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When the humidity is higher than 50%, the moisture in the air could prevent your coat of paint from drying. Always check the weather in your area for the few days that you plan on painting so it doesn’t get too humid. If you’re painting indoors, try running a dehumidifier to help pull the moisture out of the air and speed up your drying time. [10]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Most paints dry best when they’re around 70–80 °F (21–27 °C), so temperatures that are any colder could make you wait longer between coats. If you’re painting interior walls , check the recommended drying temperature on the paint can and set your thermostat. If you’re painting outside , then wait for a few days of warm weather without any rain. [11]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If there isn’t a lot of airflow in the space where you’re painting, then the moisture in the paint doesn’t have anywhere to go. Increase the airflow in the room by opening doors and windows or turning on a fan so you can speed up the drying time. [12]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Darker paint colors tend to take longer to dry than lighter hues. Give yourself an extra hour or two of drying time between coats if you’re working with blacks, browns, or any other dark colors. [13]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Different application methods can apply the paint in a thicker coat that can increase your drying time. If you use a paint roller , the paint will spread out more evenly into a thin layer on your walls than if you applied it with a brush. [14]
    6. Advertisement
Section 3 of 5:

What happens if you paint another coat too soon?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    When you touch up or put another coat of paint onto a surface that hasn't had time to fully dry, it could have a splotchy or uneven appearance. The moisture gets caught in between the layers, which could eventually lead to bubbling or sections peeling away. When the bottom coat is totally dry before you apply more paint, then it will be able to adhere properly. [15]
    • If you’re ever unsure about how long to let paint dry, just wait until the next day to apply the next coat.
Section 4 of 5:

Maximum Recoat Times

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If something comes up, it’s okay if you don’t recoat the paint right away when it’s ready. Just know that the longer you wait, dust can build up on the first coat and make the next coat look uneven or splotchy. UV rays from the sun can also affect the color or finish of paint in direct light, so be sure to apply the second coat within the week. [16]
    2. Advertisement
Section 5 of 5:

How long should paint cure after the last coat?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cd\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cd\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Curing is when the paint completely hardens so it’s even more protected from damage or regular wear and tear. Avoid scrubbing any painted surfaces and be careful not to scuff up the paint while it’s still hardening. After about 4 weeks, your paint will have fully bonded and is less likely to get damaged. [17]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4e\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4e\/How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-How-Long-to-Wait-Between-Coats-of-Paint-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Even though oil paint has a longer time in between coats, it actually cures a bit faster than latex paint. Just be careful not to brush up against or scrub at the paint until it’s gone through its full cure time. [18]
    • Always double-check the cure time on the paint packaging since it may recommend a longer time.
    3. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Always check the drying and recoating instructions on the can of paint you’re using since it may list different times. [19]
        Thanks
      • If you’re painting bricks or masonry, recoat times could vary between 4–24 hours depending on the brand you’re using. [20]
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      The Best Compliments for Someone’s Singing or Speaking Voice
      How to
      Paint PVC
      How to
      Paint Silicone
      How to
      Paint a Cooler
      How to
      Transfer Images to Ceramic
      How to
      Paint Plastic Furniture
      How to
      Calculate Price Per Square Foot for House Painting
      How to
      Spray Paint Plastic
      How to
      Stipple Ceiling
      Learn to Paint Ceramic Like a Pro
      How to
      Paint a House
      How to
      Crackle Paint
      How to
      Paint a High Ceiling over Stairs
      How to
      Paint a Bathroom
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://images.homedepot-static.com/catalog/pdfImages/a3/a3051f4a-65b6-4cdc-972f-c300fe4ddc93.pdf
      2. ↑ https://www.kilz.com/binaries/content/assets/magnolia/pdf/tds/tds-premiuim-interior-matte-paint.pdf
      3. ↑ https://media.benjaminmoore.com/WebServices/prod/assets/stage/datasheets/TDS_0513/20180710%20513%20TDS%20US%20OKF.pdf
      4. ↑ https://images.thdstatic.com/catalog/pdfImages/4a/4ab3302a-d3c0-4b9d-8b4f-89084f22e3d0.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.homedepot.com/hdus/en_US/DTCCOM/HomePage/Know_How/Brand_Pages/Paint/Behr/Docs/ExteriorPPUPaints.pdf
      6. ↑ https://www.rustoleum.com/~/media/DigitalEncyclopedia/Documents/RustoleumUSA/TDS/English/CBG/Specialty/SPC-18_Specialty_Chalkboard_Paint_TDS.ashx
      7. ↑ https://media.benjaminmoore.com/WebServices/prod/assets/stage/datasheets/TDS_0508/20200210%20508%20TDS%20US%20OKF.pdf
      8. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21017918/interior-paint-buying-guide
      9. ↑ https://assets.unilogcorp.com/187/ITEM/DOC/Majic_Paints_100006692_Specification_Sheet.pdf
      1. ↑ https://media.benjaminmoore.com/WebServices/prod/assets/stage/datasheets/TDS_0793/20190124%20K793%20TDS%20CE%20OKF.pdf
      2. ↑ https://images.thdstatic.com/catalog/pdfImages/1d/1d30a987-1b6c-47fb-8876-0fbd95d6be3c.pdf
      3. ↑ https://media.benjaminmoore.com/WebServices/prod/assets/stage/datasheets/TDS_0793/20190124%20K793%20TDS%20CE%20OKF.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.kilz.com/binaries/content/assets/magnolia/pdf/tds/tds-premiuim-interior-matte-paint.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-long-does-it-take-paint-to-dry/
      6. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/bubbling-paint/
      7. ↑ https://wilkopaintinc.com/wp-content/files/2015/03/342.46-TDS.pdf
      8. ↑ https://www.kilz.com/binaries/content/assets/magnolia/pdf/tds/tds-premiuim-interior-matte-paint.pdf
      9. ↑ https://www.rustoleum.com/~/media/DigitalEncyclopedia/Documents/RustoleumUSA/TDS/English/CBG/Zinsser/CVS-03_Cover-Stain_Oil-Based_Primer_TDS.ashx
      10. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/the-13-painting-mistakes-almost-everyone-makes-48420
      11. ↑ https://www.kilz.com/binaries/content/assets/kilz/pdf/msds/masonry_stucco_brick_paint_ce_tds.pdf

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 18,827 times.
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement