For some, the idea of painting wood that is still wet seems like a big waste of time.
After all, the moisture should prevent the paint from properly sticking to the surface and the result will be a runny mess.
While it is true for the best results that you should wait until the damp wood is absolutely dry, there are times in which you may have no other choice than to paint the wood while it is still wet.
If you find yourself in a situation where painting wet wood is necessary, then you may try to use the following steps for the best results.
But before we dive into the steps for how to paint a wet wood, let’s try to figure out – can you paint wet wood in the first place?
And if yes, what may happen if you plan to paint the wet wood?
Can You Paint Wet Wood?
The short answer is yes, provided you know how to do it correctly.
The long answer is you can consider painting wet wood but it’s good that you get aware of the risks this may come with.
If you plan to paint over the wet wood surface (or a wood that is still damp and not completely dry) with regular paint the paint may eventually peel off very soon.
So, it’s important that you know the right steps for how to deal with wet wood and what is the right type of paint you can use for painting the damp wood.
How to Paint Wet Wood Properly?
As mentioned, painting over wet wood (like your exterior fence panels, deck, window trim, etc.) if done right can serve your purpose and can even make the surface last longer.
Here are some steps you may need to follow to get the job done right:
Step 1 – Dry as Much as Possible
Use paper towels and a hair dryer on low heat to remove as much moisture from the surface as you can.
The goal is to get the wood as dry as possible before you paint.
This will, however, depend on the moisture content of wood which should be checked before painting.
Step 2 – Turn on the Fan
Depending on how much time you have, training an electric fan on the wood can also help dry it more thoroughly.
The more time you have, the dryer the wood will be when you are about to paint.
Remember that the goal is to apply at least two coats of paint, so calculate the time it will take when you start.
Step 3 – Turn Off the Fan and Start
At the very least, turn the fan away from the wood that is to be painted to add ventilation to the room.
Stir the water-based paint and you are ready to begin.
Step 4 – Apply First & Second Coat
Start by applying an even coat of paint to the entire surface of the wood.
Using a foam paintbrush of good quality will help in getting a smooth coat. Let the first coat fully dry before you apply a second coat.
Step 5 – Clean Up & Hope for the Best
Once you have completed the second coat, clean up your paint brushes.
Remember that paint will eventually peel off wood that is still wet, so choosing the best water-based paints are preferred in this situation.
Unlike oil-based paints or enamels, latex paint will bond well and get absorbed in the damp wood letting you get the right finish that may last a bit longer.
Jack Luis is a semi-retired painter who loved painting his clients’ ideas on their walls. He had worked as a painter for more than a decade to serve the customers in areas such as Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Beaufort, Georgetown, SC (South Carolina). Today in his free time, he likes to read and write about the newer techniques that are being implemented in his profession. You may read more about him here or get in touch with him here.
