How Long After Plastering Can You Paint?

Have you recently plastered your walls, and are you wondering when to start painting? We know you are in a rush to start painting your home quickly, but hold on! Let me clarify some points for you. After plastering, you must wait for it to dry before painting. The question that comes to your mind is, for how long do I have to wait for it to dry? Let me help you with that.

How Long Will Plaster Take to Dry?

Usually, it takes at least 3 to 4 weeks for the plaster to dry, but if you are not in a hurry, then it’s better to wait for a week or two more just to be on the safe side.

You can also get an idea of how the moisture is drying up by checking the colour of the plaster. A freshly plastered wall is of a dark and uniform colour, but as it starts to dry, its colour starts turning lighter. You have to wait till the whole wall is light-shaded and it doesn’t have dark patches before painting. You can also feel the plaster condition with your hands. Dry plaster will feel cold, not damp.

Factors that Affect the Drying Time of Plaster

The time you have to wait for the plastering to be dried depends upon a few factors. We have discussed them below:

• Temperature

The climate of the area where you live greatly impacts the drying time of plaster. For example, if you live in a cold area, you have to wait for more than a month. If you live in a warm area, 3 to 4 weeks is enough time for the plaster to be fully dry.

• Humidity

The areas with humidity have more moisture in the air, which eventually slows down the evaporation of water from plaster. In humid areas, plaster can take a longer time.

• Thickness

The drying time of plaster is also affected by the thickness of the plaster applied on the walls. If a thick layer of plaster is applied on the walls, it takes more time than usual for the plaster to fully dry. It also depends on the surface area on which the plaster is applied.

• Ventilation

Good airflow helps the plaster to dry quicker. Opening the windows of your home or turning on fans can help in the drying process.

What Happens When You Paint on Fresh Plaster?

• A new plaster is full of moisture, and it takes time to dry fully and be ready for painting. If it’s not fully dried, it can cause mould and mildew to grow.
• If you apply paint on fresh plaster, it will also absorb the moisture of the paint, resulting in cracking, peeling, and bubbling.
• If you apply paint when the plaster is still damp, then it will create uneven paint on the wall, leaving some areas darker and some lighter.
• Applying paint on fresh plaster creates skin around the wall. It will trap the moisture inside the wall, which can damage your plaster.

Conclusion

Painting after plastering requires patience and time. Nothing feels more disappointing than seeing the painting done badly. The normal time for the plaster to dry is 3 to 4 weeks, but several factors can change it. By knowing the drying time of plaster, you can save yourself from extra costs. If you have freshly plastered walls, then you have to be patient. After all, patience is the key to success.