When you are doing a painting project there is going to be some waiting time. The waiting time slows you down, but you need to make sure that the paint is completely dry before you apply a second coat, or before you declare the project to be completed.
Most paint that is sprayed on metal surfaces will reach a complete dry in less than 20 minutes as long as the layer of paint is thin, and the temperature is above 450.
The Stages of Paint Drying
Surface Dry Stage
When you see a thin membrane on the surface of the paint, and it appears that you could touch the paint you are witnessing a surface dry. If you were to actually touch the paint at this time you will find it is sticky and easily transfers to your hand. This stage can be reached in a matter of a couple of minutes if you are applying thin layers.
Soft Dry or Touch Dry Stage
When the paint becomes dry enough that you can lightly touch it this is called a soft dry or touch dry stage. If you apply any pressure while you are touching the paint during this stage it will most likely adhere to your fingers and come off of the painted surface. Many people make the mistake of thinking paint is dry enough at this stage to paint over.
Paint at this stage is in a delicate drying time and needs more time before it is covered in wet paint because the pressure of the second coat application may cause the first coat of paint to turn loose and be transferred to the roller or brush you are using. This stage may be reached in five to six minutes when you are applying paint to a metal surface. Learn how to prevent spray paint chipping on metal
Hard Dry
When the paint dries to this stage you can touch it with your hand and it does not transfer onto your hand. You can apply some pressure and the paint will remain in place. At this stage of dryness, the paint is still vulnerable. It can be easily damaged or scratched and you can usually see your fingerprints if you press down on the paint during this stage. It will not easily come off of the surface but it will easily be altered or damaged. This stage may be achieved in ten minutes or less.
Completely Dry
When your paint can be touched and pressure can be applied without leaving any marks, prints, or damage to the paint then the paint is dry. It is dry enough at this point to apply a second coat of paint on top of the first one. This stage may be achieved in fifteen minutes or longer.
Paint drying times are affected by the temperature outside, the surface you are painting, and the thickness to which you apply the paint.
Paint that is applied to the metal with a paint sprayer will dry on the surface very quickly. You must clean the metal thoroughly before painting because some metals have an oily coating that will prevent the paint from adhering to the surface.
Some metal surfaces have to be roughed up using sandpaper to create a surface the paint can easily adhere to.
You also need to make sure that the metal is completely dry before you start applying your paint. Wipe the surface area with a dry towel and then allow it to air dry before you begin.
How Can You Make Spray Paint Dry Faster?
There are several things that you can do to speed up the time it takes for your paint to dry. These include
- Putting a fan in the area to circulate the air
- Putting a heater close to the object to bake the paint on
- Apply thin coats
- Use a commercial product like Japan Dry
- Paint only when the temperature is above 600
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you dry spray paint on metal?
To dry paint on metal make certain that the metal is in an area that has good ventilation and air circulation. Spray the paint layers in thin coats and allow the paint to sit undisturbed for at least 20 minutes.
What paint can I use on metal?
You can apply both water-based paints and oil-based paints to metal surfaces. If you choose oil-based paint the amount of time it takes for the paint to dry will be longer. In case you need to thin oil-based paint, our guide can be of great help to you. It provides all the necessary information to make the process easier and more efficient.
Final Note
When you are painting metal you should do the project outside or in a well-ventilated garage. You need to allow the paint to dry completely before you apply a second coat or a finish coat.
Spray your paint in thin even layers to achieve a better coating and prettier surface.
Related Articles:
1. How to Paint a Car with a Spray Can?
2. How to Paint Aluminum Siding With a Roller & Sprayer
