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How Long Does Oil-Based Paint Take to Dry Outside?

Published in Exterior Paint Drying Time 2 mins read

According to the provided reference, oil-based paint applied outside typically takes six to eight hours simply to be dry to the touch.

Understanding Oil-Based Exterior Paint Drying Times

Oil-based paints are known for their durability but require longer drying periods compared to their latex counterparts. Based on the reference "Oil-Based Exterior Paint Drying Time," you can expect oil-based paint used outside to reach the dry to the touch stage within a specific timeframe.

As stated in the reference: "Unlike quick-drying latex paint, oil-based paints take six to eight hours simply to be dry to the touch."

This longer drying time significantly impacts the painting process. Because the paint takes this long to become touch-dry, it becomes difficult to apply multiple coats in a single day. The reference notes that a project that might otherwise be completed in one day could instead require up to three days to allow for proper drying between coats.

Here is a summary based on the provided information:

Drying Stage Approximate Time (Outdoor)
Dry to the Touch Six to eight hours

While "dry to the touch" is an important milestone, other drying stages, such as being ready for a second coat or achieving full cure, will take considerably longer. The duration for these subsequent stages is not specified in the provided reference, but the indication that a project might take three days highlights the extended time required for the paint to properly set before subsequent layers or full use.

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