How Long Does Waterproofing Spray Take to Dry?
If you’re looking for a quick and affordable waterproofing solution, a can of waterproofing spray is the answer. You can buy waterproofing sprays from virtually any shop.
If you haven’t used such a product before or this is your first time using a particular brand of waterproofing spray, you may be wondering how long it takes for the spray to dry.
This is quite a common question, but the answer is not that obvious. So, I decided to do the heavy lifting work for you.
How long does waterproofing spray take to dry?
Waterproofing sprays for clothes and footwear usually take 30 minutes to one hour to dry. Waterproofing sprays for outdoor fabric or wood can take up to 24 hours to dry completely.
If the spray is still sticky, this means it hasn’t dried yet. If you apply two or more layers of waterproofing spray, wait for 24 hours to dry.
If you’re using homemade silicon-based waterproofing solutions, wait for 24 hours for the solution to dry.
Of course, if you’re in a hurry, you can use the items you applied waterproofing spray on after 30 minutes. However, keep in mind that in this case, you’ll need to apply a new coat as soon as possible.
Waterproofing sprays quickly lose their effectiveness after a few wears, especially if you applied only one coat of spray.
| Learn more: How to Waterproof a Straw Hat in 20 Minutes
How to apply a waterproofing spray
Keep in mind that waterproofing sprays are toxic. Prolonged exposure to waterproofing spray may cause headaches and dizziness.
For this reason, you should apply the spray in well ventilated areas. Ideally, step outside the house and use the spray on the porch or in the garden.
If you don’t have this possibility and you’ll use the spray indoors, open all the windows of the room where you’ll apply the spray. Keep the door open as well so as to keep the air moving.
Get ready to endure the smell
Perhaps the main disadvantage when it comes to using waterproofing sprays is the unpleasant smell. Well, most waterproofing sprays have a specific lingering odor that’s not at all pleasant.
The good news is that the smell will go away after the waterproofing coats you applied have completely dried.
When I use waterproofing spray inside the house, I always place coffee grounds in the respective area. The coffee absorbs part of the smell and leaves an aromatic pleasant scent at the same time.
Conclusion
Most waterproofing sprays usually take 30 minutes to one hour to dry. Waterproofing sprays for outdoor use can take up to 24 hours to dry. The quickest way to test if the spray has dried is to check if it’s still sticky.
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Last updated in October 2021 to add additional information.
