When Is the Right Time to Paint Your Home?
Published by Panthera Technologies
A fresh coat of paint can bring new life to any home, but if the preparation isn’t done correctly — especially when working with newly plastered walls — the results can be short-lived.
Whether you're finishing a renovation or touching up a room, this guide will help you understand when it's safe to paint, why plaster drying times matter, and how to deal with common wall cracks to ensure a long-lasting finish.
How Long to Wait Before Painting Fresh Plaster
Fresh plaster needs time to dry — not just on the surface, but deep within. Painting over wet plaster can lead to major problems like peeling, bubbling, or even mold formation.
General drying guidelines:
Thin interior plaster: 5 to 7 days
Thicker plaster or cold conditions: Up to 4 weeks
Exterior walls: 1–2 weeks minimum, depending on weather
Dry plaster turns from dark brown/pink to a light matte beige.
Why You Should Never Rush It
Painting over wet plaster traps moisture inside the wall, leading to:
- Peeling or flaking paint
- Uneven color and texture
- Efflorescence (white salt stains on the surface)
- Damp problems or mold growth
Pro tip: Always apply a plaster bonding primer before painting. It helps paint stick evenly and prevents excessive absorption.
Why Does New Plaster Sometimes Crack?
Hairline cracks in fresh plaster are fairly common and usually result from:
- Shrinkage during drying
- Poor mixing or rapid drying (especially in direct sun or wind)
- Building movement
- Improper surface preparation
While many are harmless, some cracks can worsen over time if not repaired properly.
How to Fix Cracks in Plastered Walls — And Stop Them from Coming Back
Here’s a breakdown of common crack types and how to fix them for good:
1. Hairline Cracks (Less than 1mm wide)
✅ Cause: Shrinkage, minor settling
✅ Fix:
- Lightly open the crack with a sharp utility knife.
- Brush out dust
- Fill with a fine surface crack filler
- Sand smooth and repaint.
2. Horizontal/Vertical Cracks (1–5mm wide)
✅ Cause: Structural stress or movement
✅ Fix:
- Open the crack to create a clean V-groove
- Remove loose material and dust
- Fill with a flexible filler or crack repair compound
- Add fiberglass mesh tape for reinforcement
- Let dry fully, sand, and paint with an elastic paint or primer
3. Diagonal or Step Cracks (especially near windows/doors)
✅ Cause: Foundation movement or poor structural design
✅ Fix:
- These may indicate deeper structural issues
- Consult a professional to assess foundation integrity
- Use polymer-modified repair mortar or epoxy injection for larger cracks
- Reinforce with mesh before final plastering and painting
4. Spiderweb or Crazy Cracking
✅ Cause: Over-troweling or incorrect plaster mix
✅ Fix:
- Scrape off loose material
- Skim over entire affected area with a finishing plaster
- Apply bonding primer before repainting
When Is the Best Season to Paint?
Interior: Any time of year — as long as humidity is low and ventilation is good
Exterior:
✅ Best: Spring and Autumn (moderate temps, low humidity)
❌ Avoid: Rainy or extremely hot weather — it can affect drying and adhesion
Final Checklist Before Painting:
✔️ Has the plaster fully dried (and turned light beige)?
✔️ Are cracks properly repaired and filled?
✔️ Has a bonding primer been applied?
✔️ Are temperatures and humidity levels ideal for drying?
✔️ Are you using the correct paint for the surface?
Take the Time, Get It Right
Painting over plaster may seem straightforward, but timing and preparation make all the difference. By letting plaster dry properly and dealing with cracks the right way, you’re ensuring that your paint job lasts for years — with no bubbles, flakes, or frustrations.
Need help with wall repairs, painting, or renovations?
👉 Contact Panthera Technologies — your trusted partner in property maintenance and upgrades.
🌐 www.pantheratech.co.za
📞 072 645 9606
📧 info@pantheratech.co.za
📍 Proudly serving homeowners, businesses, and estates across South Africa