Sydney Wide Plastering is your team of complete interior specialists. When you need plastering or gyprocking done in Sydney, we are your first choice.
When you’re planning a renovation, one of the most common questions asked is: “How long does plaster take to dry?” And more specifically, “How long after plastering can you paint?”
This blog will help you understand plaster drying and curing times in Australian conditions, what affects them, how to tell when plaster is dry, and the right way to paint over new plaster for a professional finish.
Plaster might look dry on the surface, but that doesn’t mean it’s ready for paint. Painting in Sydney too early can trap moisture inside. When that happens, you could end up with:
Fully dried plaster sets the foundation for paint that looks good and holds up over time.
Drying is when moisture leaves the surface of the plaster, while curing is when the plaster fully hardens, and all moisture has escaped from within. Both need to be complete before you start painting.
Several factors can influence the drying and curing times for plaster. Here’s what you need to know:
The thicker the layer of plaster, the longer it will take to dry. Thin layers dry faster, while heavy applications on large walls or ceilings need more time to cure completely.
Warm and dry conditions help plaster dry faster. Ideally, keep the room between 20°C and 25°C.
High humidity can significantly extend drying time. Moist air makes it harder for plaster to release moisture.
Good air circulation makes a big difference. Open windows, use fans, or create cross-ventilation to help the plaster dry evenly.
Rapid-drying plasters can be painted sooner, while standard plaster products need a few weeks to fully cure before painting.
While plaster might feel dry on the surface within a few hours, that doesn’t mean it’s ready for painting. Patience is key to make sure your paint job lasts.
The surface can dry within 1–5 hours, but that’s only the top layer. There’s still moisture trapped underneath. Painting too soon can cause cracking and uneven finishes as the plaster continues to release moisture.
For plaster to fully set, you need to wait 2–4 weeks. This ensures the plaster is completely dry all the way through before painting.
Once the plaster is fully cured, preparing it correctly for painting is crucial. Skipping these steps can lead to uneven results, poor adhesion, and blotchy finishes.
Applying a primer is one of the most important steps when painting over fresh plaster. It seals the plaster surface, helping paint stick evenly.
Without a primer, paint can soak into the plaster unevenly, leaving streaks or blotches.
After the primer is dry, you can apply your topcoat.
In conclusion, the question of how long plaster takes to dry before painting requires patience and careful attention. While the surface may seem dry within a few hours, fully cured plaster, which is ready for primer and paint, usually takes two to four weeks.
By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve the best possible results. Rushing the process can lead to uneven finishes and expensive mistakes.
If you are unsure or working on a major renovation project, it is always best to consult with our team at Sydney Wide Plastering. We provide professional services for painting and plastering in Sydney, ensuring your walls are finished to a high standard.
You can call us today on 0405 847 224 or fill out our online form to book a consultation or get a free quote. Let us help you achieve a flawless finish without the stress.
