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What is paint blocking and sticking?

If two freshly painted surfaces such as door and jamb or frames are pressed/stuck (simply if you close the door) together which results in peeling in one side and sticking in the opposite side after it dries. That’s what sticking or blocking is. It’s a common problem mostly for those who do DIY and novice painters. But sometimes happens unknowingly or is unaware of that.

Why does paint stick or block?

Blocking occurs when doors or windows are not properly closed after they have been painted, especially if you use low-quality semi-gloss or gloss paints.

It’s more cost-effective to utilize low-quality paints for the first layer, but in the long run, this might be a problem. Glossy paints based on enamel have a higher gloss and sheen, but they are also more likely to flake or block after time.

Furthermore, not giving adequate time for the paint to dry can lead to clogging owing to the higher humidity. A greater gloss finish may be obtained by using better oil-based paints rather than low-quality if a high gloss finish is desired.

What can cause paint sticking?

Normally, new paints are applied with the windows and doors closed. If they are not properly dried before opening after fresh paint application, then sticking will occur. Also, if new coats of latex or oil-based paint are applied over old paint while it is still tacky/wet, blocking may happen. Most low-quality paints used today are oil-based and will block or stick easily. Don’t put a topcoat over wet paint! It may cause blocking also.

Which paints and surfaces are affected?

Paint blocking can happen on any latex or oil-based paint applied in semi-gloss or gloss. It is more likely to happen in warm, humid conditions when the paint does not have time to dry. For example, in the spring when humidity is high after a wet winter, exterior doors are often blocked.

How long does it take for paint to dry?

This is a question that can be difficult to answer since the drying time is determined by the conditions in which the paint is used. For example, if you’re using a fresh can of spray paint and you’re painting a wall that is covered with drywall, it’s going to take longer to dry than if you’re painting a room that has lots of paint splatters on the floor and is painted with wall paint, which will dry faster than a can of spray paint.

The drying time of paint can be affected by many factors, including environmental temperature, humidity, paint type, paint thickness, the type of paintbrush, and the amount of paint applied. There are many things to consider when deciding how long something will take to dry.

In general, low-VOC paints take 2-3 days to dry sufficiently for doors and windows to be opened. But again, humidity plays a factor in the overall drying time of a fresh coat. In high humidity conditions, which is more likely during warm weather seasons or after a period of rain or snow, it may take longer for the paint to dry. But there are certain steps you can take to speed the drying time of freshly applied paint.

How to fix paint blocking and sticking?

To avoid the issue, simply allow a longer drying time before opening a door or window after painting. With exterior doors, it is wise to wait 24 hours before allowing them to open and close again. However, waiting that long can be difficult during humid summer months. To prevent blocking from occurring, moisture can be eliminated using a dehumidifier. If the blocking has already occurred, paint over the affected areas with a semi-gloss or gloss latex paint and allow to dry for 24 hours before reopening doors and windows. The issue will resolve itself after this period due to the original coat of paint not having sufficient time to cure completely. This is not suggested with oil-based paints.

How to Prevent Paint From Sticking or Blocking?

The best way to avoid paint blocking and sticking are to apply a primer coat. This coats the surface with an oil-based enamel that allows the latex paint applied on top to adhere better. In addition, 2 coats of low-VOC paints should be used for the paint to have enough time to dry before being exposed to humid conditions. This will prevent the paint from sticking or blocking as well as allow you to achieve a quality finish, whether it is gloss or semi-gloss.

The most recommended paints for avoiding this issue are those with low-VOC as they dry faster, as previously mentioned. In addition, using a fresh can of paint reduces the chance of blocking. By using a brush and roller, instead of spraying the paint on, there is less chance that it will cover in any direction other than straight.

Additionally, humidity can be eliminated by applying a dehumidifier to the affected areas, allowing the paint to dry more quickly. It’s also important to choose a temperature-controlled environment because fluctuating temperatures can cause the paint to dry faster or slower, further affecting the drying time.

Finally, painting in small patches allows the area to dry without sticking. So instead of painting an entire wall at once, paint a small section, let it dry for 24 hours then move on to the next section. This prevents blocking from happening as well as allows you to avoid waiting days before being able to open a door or window.

How To Fix Blocking Paint?

If the blocking has already occurred, the issue can be resolved by applying a semi-gloss or gloss latex paint over the affected areas and allowing it to dry for 24 hours. This will resolve the issue because the original coat of paint will not have time to sufficiently cure.

This is not suggested for oil-based paints because they have different drying times, which can affect how quickly the paint blocks or sticks. For these types of paints, it’s best to lengthen the curing process by allowing more drying time before opening doors and windows. A dehumidifier placed in the affected areas will also help the paint to dry more quickly.

Alternatively, if you’re working with oil-based paints, a primer before painting will allow for better adhesion and allow the paint to dry faster. This mixing of primers and latex paints is not suggested as it reduces the quality of both coats of paint.

Need A Pro Help?

In case you failed to fix the blocking and sticking paints or you are frustrated to do so, Call Toronto Painting Contractors for a free quote.