What is Drying Time for Enamel Paint?

Last year when I got enamel paint on my walls, I also searched for what is drying time for enamel paint. As I was in a hurry to get it dry so that nothing can spoil it by mistake. I found that the drying time varies depending on different factors like the temperature in my area matters a lot. 

NoBroker Home Painting Service

Get premium quality painting for your home at affordable rates. Prices Starting Rs. 3500 only.

Hire Professional Painters

1-Yr Service Warranty

Check Painting Prices

What is Drying Time of Enamel Paint?

I got to know that I had to be very patient until the enamel paint dries and below is what I learnt.

• I used an oil-based enamel paint and for most enamel paints, they are expected to dry in about 4-8 hours. But still I was not able to use the surface right away. For it to happen, I waited for about 24-48 hours and it turned out to be durable with a smooth and glassy finish.

• Now, for another wall, I used a Premium Enamel. I noticed that the drying time of this paint is about 3 hours, but to fully dry, you should allow 18-24 hours depending on the weather. 

• I also observed that warmer temperatures help speed up the drying process, while cool and humid weather slows down the drying. I myself painted in winters and so it took a day more than the drying time.

• If you're also in a hurry to make the drying time faster, you can use a fan to circulate the air. 

For a better drying time, let the first coat dry and only after this, you can apply the second coat. I hope that my answers help you understand more about the drying time of enamel paint.

Read More:

Enamel paint offers a long-lasting and glossy finish, which is why I chose it for painting my home. However, I was unaware of the drying time for enamel paint. So, I asked my painter and he told me that the ideal drying time of this paint is 8 to 24 hours. In addition, he told me about a few aspects that could affect this time.

What is the Enamel Dry Time?

You must be aware that the drying time is an important factor while using any paint. My painter told me that the type of enamel paint, the humidity and temperature, and the thickness of the paint application are some of the factors that might affect the drying time of enamel paint. 

• He added that due to the thickness, oil-based enamel paints might take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours to cure completely under normal situations. 

• However, the water-based enamel paints can dry completely in one to two hours.

In order to avoid damage to the finish, he said it's crucial to let the paint dry fully before adding a second layer or handling the painted surface. 

He also told me that putting thin, even applications of paint or maintaining appropriate ventilation can shorten the enamel cure time. However, it is better to hire a professional painter to get the best results and a long-lasting finish with enamel paint. 

I hope you get an idea the enamel paint how long to dry.