How to fix paint that won't dry

The chemical process of drying will depend on the type of paint you have chosen. Here are the main processes involved in paint curing:

• evaporation: for water-based paints;

• polymerisation: for epoxy paints;

• binder oxidisation: for oil-based paints.

1. You've painted in the wrong weather

If you attempt to paint in full sun or when it is very hot outside, the paint will dry too quickly and won't adhere properly. On the other hand, when you attempt to paint when it's too cold and wet, the opposite will happen and your paint will dry very slowly or not at all!

2. You haven't mixed your paint properly

It is very important to ensure your paint is well-mixed before application. All components are needed to ensure your paint adheres to the surface. Use a mixing tool to get right down to the bottom of the paint can when you mix to ensure the heaviest components distribute evenly. Occasionally, if you don't mix your paint properly, it will cause your surface to remain tacky.

3. You haven't ventilated the room properly

Airing out a newly painted room is an essential part of ensuring the paint dries properly. A poorly ventilated room is not conducive to paint curing.

4. Your surface was greasy or poorly prepared

We cannot emphasis this enough: good paint adherence starts with proper surface preparation! Cleaning and removing all traces of grease from your surface will ensure your undercoat adheres properly and your paint cures as expected.

5. You didn't allow your paint to dry between coats

It goes without saying that not allowing your paint to dry between coats will mean the final coat takes much longer to cure.

How to get an oil-based paint to dry

After taking care to protect any unpainted surfaces, spray some white spirit onto any parts that don't seem to be drying. The white spirit should provide the oil-based paint with the solvent it requires to dry.

Other paints and solutions

Sadly, there is no miracle solution for other types of paint. You can try heating up the room but most of the time you will just have to be patient. Alternatively, you can strip the paint and try again.

Avoiding the problem in future

If you've prepared your surface adequately and the paint is applied as required, there's no reason for it not to dry. Be sure to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best result.