Weathered Surfaces: If the existing paint is weathered, faded, or peeling, applying two coats is generally recommended to ensure proper coverage, adhesion, and protection against moisture and UV damage.
Another question we get asked a lot from DIY painters and other contractors is, “how many coats of paint do I need when painting the interior or exterior of a home. The general rule is that you should use two coats of paint.
Most professional painters will still use two coats of paint due to fading from the sun or wear-and-tear on the primary color.
So, a second paint coat will make the finish look darker and more intense. Think of adding multiple coats of paint to your wall as adding an extra shot of espresso to your morning coffee – adding more intensity to your coffee – and your paint colours!
Your finished paint job will look better
Two or more coats of paint offers a rich, smooth, and even finish that one coat of paint just cannot mimic. Sure, some paint formulas are a little thicker than others, but that doesn't mean they can deliver your desired effect.
Good Surface Condition: If the existing paint is in good condition, with no significant damage, peeling, or discoloration, a single coat may be sufficient to refresh the appearance and provide adequate protection.
DIY beginners sometimes assume that one coat of wall paint will do – and end up with patchy or thin paintwork. Usually, you'll have to apply at least two coats of paint to achieve a smooth, even finish. Applying multiple coats also helps build up the paint so it's more durable, and less prone to chipping.
Patchy paint can be down to a variation in surface absorption. Walls might appear patchy if they have variation in texture. Using paint that is not fully mixed can cause a patchy appearance.
Oil based Paint Drying Time
After application, it will typically take 2-4 hours until the paint is dry to the touch. However, you'll have to wait a minimum of 24 hours until you can apply a second coat.
Sherwin Williams Duration® Exterior Acrylic Latex paint is also self-priming and mildew-resistant, in addition to needing just one coat for repaints and two coats for new work.
Wait Times Between Paint Coats
Oil-Based Paint - When using oil-based paint, you should wait at least 24 hours before adding a second coat of paint. Water-Based Latex Paint - When using water-based latex paint, you should wait at least 4 hours before adding another coat of paint.
Why does bright & white paint take so many coats to achieve coverage? The opacity of a paint is the ability to "hide" the surface underneath. Paints that have more hiding capacity are made with a "white" base which contains a larger combination of calcium carbonate and titanium dioxide.
On average, you can get about 400 square feet out of one gallon of paint. For an easy perspective, one gallon would likely cover a bathroom or small bedroom. But keep in mind that most rooms require more than one coat of paint. So if your room needs 2 coats, plan on getting around 200 square feet out of a gallon.
It is common advice to use two coats of paint on most projects. However, the specific number needed will often vary depending on what type of surface you are painting and how dark of paint you are using.
Primer works well to cover previous paint colors and flaws or spots on the wall. But if your walls are in great shape and the new coat of paint is a similar color to the old one, you may not need primer.
As a result, the depth of the paint colour will appear more defined. Two coats should provide better coverage of any spots or streaks missed on your walls and ceilings with the first coat of paint.
The Walls Were Not Prepped or Primed Properly
Sometimes, paint streaks aren't caused by poor technique, inconsistent coverage, or too much paint. If your walls aren't prepped properly, then the paint might have trouble adhering to the wall's surface. This can lead to clumps, drips, and paint streaks.
How to fix uneven or blotchy paint: No matter how many additional coats of paint you add, this problem likely requires going back to the drawing board. If you run into uneven or blotchy paint, the best thing to do is start over.
How many coats of paint do I need? Generally, you will want a minimum of two coats of paint – this is a good rule of thumb for any wall or ceiling you're painting. You'll rarely get a seamless finish from just one coat of paint, and even if you do, coverage isn't the only goal when it comes to painting a room.
Consequences: Applying a second coat too soon can lead to peeling, streaking, and uneven colour distribution. Solution: Always follow the recommended recoat times and test a small area if you're unsure.
Not Fully Loading the Roller
The roller needs to be fully loaded with paint to the core, otherwise you'll get air bubbles on your wall, resulting in “paint acne.” To avoid this mistake, roll back and forth on the roller tray until all bubbles are gone and the roller feels heavy.
There are several ways to determine whether a surface is dry: OIL BASED products are dry if they are no longer tacky and do not emit a smell. WATER BASED products are dry if they no longer feel cool to the touch and a powder will form with light sanding.
Always cut in first then continue painting with a roller. Cut in and paint with a roller one wall at a time. If you cut in all areas first and then roll the entire room, the paint that was applied when cutting in will have dried quicker and you will be left with a patchy, uneven finish.