How things are now<\/strong><\/p>\nIs it clear that the surface is wet right now? Even a few raindrops are enough to make something wet. A surface that is still wet can’t be painted on until it is completely dry.<\/p>\n
Situations in the past<\/strong><\/p>\nWhen was the last time it rained? Even if a surface doesn’t look wet, it could have hidden moisture that could affect how your paint sticks to it.<\/p>\n
If it rains on an outside wall, it may need four hours of drying time in direct sunlight and temperatures at or above 72 degrees Fahrenheit before it can be painted. If possible, you should let the surface dry for a full day. Even if the flat surfaces are dry, other parts might not be, such as:<\/p>\n
\n- Parts that can’t be seen from the sun<\/li>\n
- Molding and trim<\/li>\n
- The siding has tiny cracks.<\/li>\n
- Screw holes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
You touch the wall and it feels dry. This is a common situation. But if you run your brush over a nail hole, it releases water that has been building up. If you don’t notice this right away, the water will drip down the surface you just painted, leaving light streaks. The only way to fix this problem is to paint it again.<\/p>\n
Temperature<\/strong><\/p>\nIs it too hot or too cold? Is the temperature outside below what the paint can say should be the minimum? The temperature and the amount of water in the air work together. The longer it will take for your exterior surface to dry, the cooler it is.<\/p>\n
Tip<\/strong><\/p>\nSome paints can be used even when it’s only 34 degrees Fahrenheit outside. But always plan ahead, check the weather report, and give yourself a buffer zone. For example, if you are painting at 34 degrees in the middle of the morning and you think it will be freezing later that day, you are pushing the limits too far.<\/p>\n
Will it get colder than the minimum? If temperatures are expected to drop below the minimum within 10 hours of painting, don’t paint. Check the label on the paint can see what temperature it should be.<\/p>\n