Polyurethane is often applied on most wood projects before they are considered finished. Polyurethane forms a transparent layer that functions as a barrier, deflecting impacts and keeping water from reaching the stain. So, if you are getting wooden flooring, stairs, or cabinets, you need to get Polyurethane. But remember, Polyurethane will only work if it gets adequate time to dry. So you may ask, how long does Polyurethane take to dry?
Usually, it takes 24-48 hours for the Polyurethane to dry & get fully cured before you place anything like rug or carpet on it; it will take 30 days. However, Polyurethane is of different types, so that’s why the drying time of each type will be different.
Moreover, many other factors influence the drying time of Polyurethane, so let’s get to know about it in detail!
How long does Polyurethane take to dry?
Polyurethane is plastic that is liquid. Polyurethane varnish is made of polyurethane resin that has been mixed with a liquid. Most Polyurethane takes 24-48 ties to dry and about 30 days to fully cure; however, this time can differ based on different factors like absorbency of the wood, temperature, humidity, etc.
Moreover, the most important thing that matters is the type of Polyurethane you are using. The time for water-based and oil-based Polyurethane is different. So let’s get to know about it in detail.
How long does Oil-based Polyurethane take to dry?
While drying times vary by brand, the majority of oil-based polyurethanes require between 6 and 10 hours to cure sufficiently for a second coat. However, certain polyurethane coatings can take 24 to 48 hours. When it comes to curing, it takes 30 days to thoroughly cure. Usually, the surface is ready for use for four days or more.
Oil-based coatings are applied a little thicker than standard ones. That’s why the oil-based Polyurethane dry time is much longer because of this thickness and the oil content. You will, however, have a more robust and long-lasting end result.
How long does Water-based Polyurethane take to dry?
Water-based Polyurethane dries substantially faster. After two hours, the majority of water-based polyurethanes will be dry to the touch and suitable for light sanding and a second coat. You can begin utilizing the surface within three days. However, water-based Polyurethane might take up to 21 days to completely cure.
Water-based Polyurethane is a more environmentally friendly and less hazardous choice. These coats contain far fewer VOCs — if any at all. Water-based products emit no strong scents and are safer and simpler to deal with than petroleum-based ones. Due to the rapid evaporation of water, this form of Polyurethane dries significantly more quickly.
How long does Polyurethane take to dry based on type of Sheen?
The Sheen of the polyurethane product is another aspect to consider when determining the drying time. Polyurethane varnishes are available in three sheen kinds:
1) High-Gloss Finish
Polyurethane in high gloss provides a mirror-like sheen. This varnish is extremely long-lasting and flexible. It takes a little longer for this finish to dry. Different types of hardwood surfaces can be coated with high-gloss Polyurethane, which can be utilized both indoors and outside.
2) Semi-Gloss Finish
In comparison to high-gloss Polyurethane, semi-gloss Polyurethane has some sheen but is not as reflective. Because of its versatility and durability, semi-gloss Polyurethane has become a popular choice. The Polyurethane of this sort dries more quickly than high-gloss but takes a little longer than satin to dry.
3) Satin Finish
Satin is a more matte-looking finish. This particular Polyurethane has a matte appearance with only a very slight sheen. This type of Polyurethane is the fastest-drying of all of them.
Factors that Affect Polyurethane Drying Time
Apart from polyurethane type and its sheen type, many other factors affect the drying time of Polyurethane. So let’s have a look at all of them & how they affect the time:
1) Wood Type & Absorbing Capacity
On raw wood, Polyurethane finishes dry more quickly. If it already has a finish on it, the drying time will be significantly longer. Its drying time will be longer in the case of water-based Polyurethane over oil-based Polyurethane and vice versa.
Younger wood that hasn’t fully dried will take longer to dry because Polyurethane is looking for empty cells to fill.
Using Polyurethane on wood like cedar or rosewood will take longer to dry because the wood has natural oils inside that will slow down the process. These woods can make it take longer to dry.
2) The temperature of the place
Heat, or temperature, is the second most critical element influencing how quickly Polyurethane dries and cures. Polyurethane dries best at temperatures ranging from 70 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is significantly lower than this, the drying period can be extended by a few hours or curing to a few days.
Furthermore, extremely hot and low temperatures might have an effect on drying time.
3) Humidity
Aside from the temperature, this is an equally important consideration. The optimal humidity level for drying water-based Polyurethane is 50% and 70% for oil-based Polyurethane.
Extreme humidity may prevent Polyurethane from drying completely. In comparison, low humidity levels below 40% might result in Polyurethane drying more quickly as the dry air suctions its moisture. To produce a uniform coat under these conditions, applying the Polyurethane fast while preserving a moist edge is critical.
4) Ventilation
It is also possible that drying time is affected by the amount of ventilation available. Faster drying times are possible because of the fresh air supply that comes from a well-ventilated space, which may take in more moisture from the drying polyurethane.
Polyurethane and other coatings should be applied to bare wood with the windows closed to prevent dust from entering the room. A fan is a great way to get more ventilation and get rid of the smell of Polyurethane without having to deal with as much dust.
5) Thickness of Coat
Always use thin coatings when applying polyurethanes. Thin coatings dry faster and more evenly than thick coats. In addition, if there is an issue, they are simpler to change.
Polyurethane can take longer to dry if the coat is overly thick. To avoid cake, you must be patient and refrain from using a blow-dryer.
6) Application Method
Polyurethane can be put on with a brush or a roller. While the application method has little effect on the amount of time required to dry, it is worth considering. When applied with a brush, polyurethane coats more thickly.
This thicker layer implies that the Polyurethane will take longer to dry than if applied with a roller in a thinner coat.
All these factors affect the time in which Polyurethane will dry. So, consider them & ascertain yourself, how much time it will take.
How long does Polyurethane take to dry on wood furniture?
If you have adequate ventilation and suitable weather conditions, Polyurethane may dry furniture in two hours. Water-based Polyurethane cures in 21 days, while oil-based polyurethane cures in 30 days.
The drying time will be longer for furniture with nooks and crannies where wood is bonded together to form a corner.
How long does Polyurethane take to dry on hardwood floors?
Hardwood floors may be treated with water-based Polyurethane in as little as four hours. After that, you’re free to put on socks and move around the room. The furniture can be returned to the table within three days. However, water-based Polyurethane might take up to 21 days to properly cure.
In most cases, oil-based products require around 24 hours to dry. The oil-based Polyurethane will take 30 days to cure completely.
How long does Polyurethane take to dry on stairs?
Polyurethane will take atleast 24 hours to get dry after application on stairs. People should not use rugs, cleaners, or walk on the stairs for about a week to keep them safe. In about 30 days, Polyurethane will be fully cured on stairs.
How long does Polyurethane take to dry on cabinets?
For cabinets, Polyurethane will take atleast 24-48 hours before drying up. As cabinets have closed spaces & corners, the time can increase to 2-3 days to get fully dried. However, it will take 21-30 days for the Polyurethane to fully cure on cabinets.
How long does Polyurethane take to dry before sanding?
In the case of water-based Polyurethane, you need to wait atleast six hours before doing sanding. However, in the case of oil-based Polyurethane, you should wait 24 hours before going for sanding. After sanding, clean through properly to apply another coat after.
What is the difference between Drying vs. Curing?
Polyurethane varnish is deemed “dry” when it no longer feels sticky and doesn’t appear to be damp. It’s okay to take a slow, careful walk on it. However, it is not fully locked on the particle level with the wood. Because the varnish under the surface is not yet “cured,” rough handling might result in increases in the finish or other surface defects.
When the molecules in the polyurethane varnish interacted chemically with oxygen, the varnish is said to have “cured,” allowing the molecules to bond more tightly together. During curing, each Polyurethane finish layer will adhere to the previous coat. The process of curing can take 21-30 days.
Bottom Line
This was all about polyurethane drying time. We hope now you know how long does Polyurethane take to dry.
Before beginning a new woodworking project, you should be aware of the drying time for Polyurethane. This widely used finish is available in a wide range of formulations, each with a unique drying time. So consider different factors types & then leave the place for that much time, before placing or using the area.
Please leave your valuable thoughts & suggestions in the comments.
Thank you for reading!
