Raheela

I didn’t know chalk paints existed until my neighbour told me about them. They had recently painted their house, which was a sight to watch. I couldn’t resist trying out this incredibly vibrant chalk paint look, and thus I pulled out my car and headed to the store to buy some chalk paint.

Chalk paint will take about 15 minutes to dry but makes you wait an entire day; that is, 24 hours in between, you can apply a second coat or top it up with wax.  

My money went down the drain. I ruined how my walls previously looked. It took a couple of weeks to fix the mess I had created, but all I wished for was that if I had known how long to wait between coats, the picture would’ve been much better.

How long does chalk paint take to dry?

Chalk paint is one of the fastest-drying wall paints. It dries to touch within 15 minutes of application and takes about a day to cure fully. The rule is to wait 24 hours before applying the next coat. 

However, numerous other factors can make chalk paint dry faster or slower than average. The thickness of your paint coat also affects the time it will require to dry completely. A thick layer dries slower, while a thin layer dries faster. Moreover, humidity levels, temperature, and exposure to sunlight can also affect the drying time of your paint. 

Does chalk paint dry darker or lighter?

Paints dry the same color they are presented in the sample. They may appear darker in the shade due to the wetness of the paint, but once they have completely dried, they will match the original shade.

Chalk paints appear to dry lighter because they are matte finish type. Such paints are non-reflective and absorb most of the light, making them appear dull. Chalk paints, exterior paints, and eggshell paints are some types of paints that become lighter on drying. 

How to Use Chalk Paint correctly – Things to know

Before you get your hands on the expensive chalk paints, here are a few things you need to know. We don’t want your money going down the drain and your happy DIY family painting day turning into a bad one.

• Wipe down the dust off the surface with a damp cloth
• Sand out slippery or laminate surfaces to ensure adequate adhesion
• Dry the paint appropriately before the second coat or the wax top coat.
• Wax your paint for longevity and protection.

Waxing Chalk Paint

As the name suggests, chalk paints leave a dry texture. If that seems boring, you can apply wax as a top coat, which you will find at the same store you purchased your chalk paint. This buttery consistency wax will not only add shine but also protect the paint from daily wear and tear. Moreover, a waxed surface can easily be cleaned compared to bare chalk paint.

Chalk paints on different surfaces

Just like all paints, chalk paints behave differently on different surfaces. However, the best part is that they do not require special prepping. Chalk paints can be applied directly to any surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does chalk paint take to dry completely?

Chalk paint dries quickly after application. It takes about 15 minutes for the chalk paint to dry. However, you must wait 24 hours between painting the second coat to ensure that the paint has properly adhered to the surface and the moisture has evaporated. 

How many coats of chalk paint are needed?

Ideally, you need two coats of chalk paint to achieve your desired color. However, painting a light color such as white or off-white over dark surfaces may ask for a third coat of paint.

Do you need to seal after chalk paint?

Yes! It would be best to seal the chalk paint, so it is not exposed to the natural distressing and regular wear and tear. Chalk paints are vulnerable and require a seal, usually a protective top coat of wax, to make them last a while.

Final Words

Irrespective of the paint you use to give your house a personal artistic touch, patience serves as the most important key. Especially when it comes to chalk paints, waiting the entire day is worth it. Do not repeat the mistakes I made. Make sure you know how long chalk paint takes to dry between coats and how long chalk paint should dry before applying wax.

If you’re a beginner looking for a guide to painting, check out my blog on if chalk paint be used on outside furniture or the best temperature and humidity for painting your interior and the best time of the year to paint. Happy painting!

Chalk paint is a favorite among DIYers thanks to its thick consistency that covers surface imperfections like a dream. Another significant benefit of chalk paint is that it can be applied to any surface without multi-step preparations.

While it is perfect for the quick transformation of household objects, a question that troubles many homeowners is whether chalk paint is waterproof.

The short answer is No! Chalk paint is water-resistant but not waterproof. For this reason, the paint finish is not recommended for outdoor projects that must endure plenty of rain and snow. However, there are ways to seal chalk paint for maximum durability.

I love chalk paint because it can be painted over most clean and dry surfaces without prep work. Since the formula is water-based, it’s easy to clean paint brushes and equipment once I am finished. 

But I also want my hard work to last, so I always go the extra mile to make the chalk paint finish waterproof. You can also use any of the methods mentioned below to increase the durability of your paint job.

Is Chalk Paint Waterproof?

Chalk paint isn’t waterproof, but that doesn’t mean it will simply wash off whenever it comes into contact with water.

You see, there’s a difference between water-resistant and waterproof. That’s why your laptop keeps working if you accidentally splash water on it but shuts down entirely after being immersed in the same water for a long time.

In the same way, when you apply chalk paint to a surface, it doesn’t come off with occasional water spills and splashes. But, if the object is submerged in water, the moisture seeps into the paint’s texture and forces it to chip and peel.

Hence, chalk paint is water-resistant on its own but not waterproof.

Luckily, various sealants are available in the market that help in waterproofing your chalk paint.

How do you make chalk paint waterproof?

Chalk paint is an excellent option if you prefer a matte look on different surfaces. 

Originally, chalk paint was used to color furniture, but now people use it on various surfaces, including walls, doors, fences, etc. The only downside is that the paint could be more durable when it comes to resisting water.

Fortunately, different sealers can make your chalk paint finish waterproof when used as a top coat. Here are my top picks:

1. Acrylic Paint Coating

When using chalk paint outdoors, it’s necessary to protect it from moisture and other environmental stressors. Acrylic paint is one of the best coatings you can apply to your chalk paint finish.

The highlight of applying an acrylic top coat is that it can be used on various surfaces, such as concrete, leather, wood, metal, fabric, and canvas. If you are interested in learning more about painting fabrics, you can check my blog for some insights.

A transparent acrylic coat keeps water away from the chalk paint finish, making it more durable than when it’s on its own. This way, you can give your outdoor furniture a new matte look without compromising its life span.

The Aleene’s Spray Acrylic Sealer is a perfect option if you want to apply an acrylic top coat. It is available in three finishes: Gloss, matte, and pearlescent, so you are free to choose whichever suits your taste best.

It is a spray-on formula; therefore, it is effortless to use and perfect for covering large surfaces. Once it dries down, the acrylic sealer provides a clear protective finish that is waterproof, precisely what you want for your outdoor furniture.

2. Lacquer Paint Coating

Applying a lacquer coat on top of your chalk paint surfaces is another effective method for making it more resistant to water damage.

Some people believe that lacquer and acrylic coating is the same, but the two vary significantly in composition. Lacquer paints are solvent-based, while acrylic paints are water-based.

Since pigments are carried in a solvent base, lacquer paints are more toxic than acrylic paints. However, if you plan on using the top coat on outdoor furniture, its toxicity should not be a problem.

Regardless, you should remember that lacquer is water-resistant, not waterproof. So, if you immerse the painted object in water, it may not hold up.

A good option is the Krylon Lacquer Spray, a fast-drying formula that protects surfaces from moisture. The lacquer dries down to an ultra-hard finish, which helps improve the paint job’s longevity.

The Krylon Lacquer spray delivers a factory-like high-gloss finish, but if you prefer something more matte, you can check out the Minwax Lacquer Spray. This one has a satin finish that doesn’t require sanding between coats. The Minwax lacquer is ideal for interior wood surfaces but can also waterproof outdoor surfaces.

Expert Advice: The inventor of chalk paint, Annie Sloan, also recommends covering painted surfaces with a lacquer coating, primarily when used outdoors.

3. Wax Coating

Wax coating is another quick way of making your chalk paint surfaces waterproof. Most chalk paint manufacturers, including Annie Sloan, produce wax that can seal the chalk finish for improved durability.

The wax coating works similarly to acrylic or lacquer coating, creating a film over the chalk paint that prevents water from passing through it.

However, the wax coating doesn’t deliver the same strength as the previous two since its formula isn’t designed to withstand extreme temperatures and rain.

Wax coating is best suited to indoor furniture that requires an extra layer of protection from accidental or constant water exposure. For example, dining tables and kitchen stools.

Pro Tip: If you cover outdoor painted surfaces with wax, be prepared to watch it melt off in excessive heat.

4. Varnish Coating

Varnish is generally used on wood surfaces to protect them from moisture. In the same way, it can be used on objects colored with chalk paint. 

Varnish effectively makes any surface waterproof and extends the object’s life by 3 to 5 years. Since varnish dries slowly, using it may seem intimidating to some. However, if you clean up the surrounding areas thoroughly before starting, there will be fewer chances of dust and lose debris sticking to the surface.

Pro Tip: You should use varnish on outdoor horizontal objects where you suspect water to sit on the surface.

5. Polyurethane

Polyurethane sealant is also used to protect chalk-painted surfaces from water. However, this method isn’t as effective as the others, so I have placed it at the end.

Although several people have reported that polyurethane coatings make their painted surfaces more resistant to environmental stressors. Since chalk paints already have water-resistant properties, there isn’t enough evidence to support whether the polyurethane sealant offers waterproof protection.

If you decide to go down this road, the Rust-Oleum Specialty Polyurethane Spray is a quick way to seal and protect interior surfaces. The spray can be used on painted surfaces, wood, and metal but is only suitable for indoor use. Thus, use an acrylic coating if you want better protection for your outdoor surfaces.

Will Chalk Paint Wash Off in the Rain?

Chalk paint is water-resistant, so it will not wash off in the rain. However, if the rainwater stays on top of the painted surface long enough, it may seep into the paint finish and cause damage.

Owing to chalk paint’s water-resistant qualities, you don’t require a sealer for vertical surfaces. That is because when you color vertical surfaces with chalk paint, water will not be able to sink into the paint finish and simply slide off.

Hence, the painted finish will not be affected by water.

On the flip side, painting horizontal surfaces with chalk paint increase the likelihood of water sinking into the finish. Therefore, it is recommended to apply a top coat to seal the paint and increase its life.

If you plan on using chalk paint for outdoor furniture or other surfaces, use an acrylic sealer or similar coating to protect it from environmental stressors.

You can learn more about which paint types are waterproof in this blog to decide the best one for outdoor use.

Will Chalk Paint Last Outdoors?

The question, ‘Is chalk paint durable enough to be used outdoors?’ is one I have been asked many times.

The short answer is yes, but the weather conditions where you live make a significant difference in the durability of your paint job.

If you live somewhere, that stays dry for the most part of the year with occasional showers, your chalk-painted furniture will last a long time. But if you experience heavy rain and snow in your area, the painted surfaces may show signs of wear and tear much earlier.

Make sure to check out the detailed blog on “Can chalk paint be used on outside furniture?”

Is Chalk Paint Washable?

Chalk paint isn’t washable. Here’s why:

As a rule of thumb, paints with a glossier finish can be cleaned more easily than matte finishes. And chalk paint is classified as a matte finish since it has almost no sheen in its formula. In fact, its chalky appearance actually makes it popular among homeowners.

However, chalk-painted surfaces can be cleaned gently from time to time. But if you overdo the washing part, you will notice signs of degradation, such as the paint fading and peeling quickly.

Fortunately, a way to make your chalk-painted surfaces washable is to coat them with wax!

If the paint’s washability is vital for your project’s success, read this blog to find out which paint finish is easily washable.

How to Determine If Chalk Paint is Waterproof?

Chalk paint isn’t waterproof on its own, but adding a sealer can significantly improve its water resistance. If you want to assess the strength of your paint’s finish against moisture, you can conduct this simple test.

• Pour a small amount of water on the chalk-painted surface (with or without sealer).
• Wait for a few minutes.
• The finish isn’t waterproof if you observe the water sinking into the top coat.
• The finish is waterproof if the water stays on top of the surface without changing its color or penetrating the finish.

FAQs

Is chalk paint permanent?

Chalk paint is permanent and can easily last on a surface for several years. However, you can increase its durability by adding a sealer on top of the finish for extra protection. 

Is chalk paint toxic?

Chalk paint is not toxic and doesn’t emit any harmful fumes. For this reason, you can use it on both indoor and outdoor objects without worrying about the paint’s adverse effects on your family’s health.

Does chalk paint come off with water?

Chalk paint doesn’t come off with flowing water. However, if the water remains on the surface for too long, it will eventually sink into the paint finish and cause it to chip and peel. The best way to avoid this situation is to cover the chalk paint finish with a top coat such as acrylic sealer or varnish.

Is Rustoleum chalk paint waterproof?

Rust-Oleum chalk paint is water-resistant but not waterproof like most chalk paints from leading manufacturers. Regardless, you can improve the durability of your paint finish by sealing it with a waterproof top coat like Rust-Oleum LeakSeal Flexible Rubber Coating Spray or the Rust-Oleum Universal All Surface Clear Topcoat Spray.

How many coats of wax do you need on top of chalk paint?

You must apply two to three layers of wax on top of chalk paint for maximum protection. Layering an inadequate amount of wax will result in a thin top layer that cannot completely resist water damage.

Conclusion

Chalk paint delivers a clean and soft look to any surface it’s applied to. Because the paint finish differs from its traditional counterparts, many DIYers prefer chalk paint for indoor and outdoor projects.

The only downside is that the paint isn’t waterproof and can lose its color when exposed to excessive rain. However, different sealers can help make chalk paint waterproof and protect it from water, moisture, scratches, and other damage.

Hence, if you want to use chalk paint on outdoor surfaces, applying a waterproof top coat is best to improve its durability.

Outdoor furniture gets to witness its fair share of wear and tear thanks to the relentlessly bright sun in the summer, and icy cold gushes in the winter. And when you add heavy rainfall to this equation, you are left with furniture pieces that look a far cry from when they were freshly painted.

Fortunately, DIYers have several paint options to renew shabby-looking furniture, and chalk paint is a popular choice among them. It doesn’t require prep work and can be applied directly to any surface, making many wonder, ‘Can chalk paint be used on outside furniture?’

The answer is: Yes! Chalk paint is suitable for outdoor furniture, whether wood, plastic, or metal. You only need to remember to add a sealer on top of the final paint layer to make it weather-resistant and durable.

Chalk paint delivers a unique texture that’s aesthetically pleasing, but if it’s not applied and sealed correctly, the paint finish can deteriorate quickly over time. I will discuss how you can achieve lasting results with chalk paint and make your outdoor furniture as good as new.

Can You Use Chalk Paint On Outdoor Furniture?

Chalk paint is an excellent choice for painting furniture because of the clean and modern finish it delivers. But the paint is water-resistant and not waterproof; therefore, you must be careful about where and how to use it.

Generally, indoor furniture is exposed to occasional spills and water splashes from time to time. For this reason, waterproof paint isn’t really a priority when selecting a suitable paint for the job.

However, it’s not the same with furniture pieces that remain outdoors. Here you need a paint formula that dries to a waterproof finish and keeps your outdoor furniture safe from rain, snow, wind, and the sun.

Chalk paint has water-resistant qualities, so it will not wash off when it comes into contact with water. But if you want to use it on outdoor furniture, applying a sealer on top is a must. You can read more about ‘Is chalk paint waterproof’ to figure out where to use it outdoors.

How To Apply Chalk Paint To Outdoor Furniture

Chalk paint is a favorite among DIYers because it requires practically no prep work or primer. Since it can be applied directly to the object you want to paint, that significantly reduces the time it takes to complete the paint job.

That being said, I prefer to do some prep work before applying chalk paint to my furniture. That is because a little TLC makes the final result look crisp and smooth and makes the color vibrancy last longer.

Here is my take on using chalk paint on outdoor surfaces.

Step 1- Clean the Surface

It’s crucial to start your paint application with a clean surface. This helps ensure the paint goes on smoothly, without any dust or debris getting stuck underneath its layer. Also, I prefer to remove the previous color from the furniture to avoid problems of flaking paint.

For this step, the pressure washer can be your ultimate friend. It not only removes the dust off the furniture quickly and thoroughly but also partially removes the previous color stain.

After cleaning with a pressure cleaner, you can finish with a professional heavy-duty cleaner used prior to painting any surface.

Don’t try to save time on this step because any grime or dirt left behind is sure to find its way back up, resulting in peeling paint on those spots.

Step 2- Apply the Chalk Paint

Make sure to give your paint a good shake before you begin in case you’re using a spray can. Apply one thin layer of chalk paint to the object and wait for it to dry.

As the paint dries down, you will notice cracks and other imperfections in the surface becoming more pronounced. Now is a good time to repair and fill these gaps with a wood filler.

Allow the filler some time to dry before sanding the surface for a smooth finish. Now, apply two more thin layers of chalk paint to complete this step. Remember to give each coat ample time to dry.

Step 3- Seal the Deal with a Top Coat

This is crucial, especially when getting your furniture ready for outdoor use.

After your final chalk paint layer has dried, apply one to two layers of top coat to protect and seal it. This will help make the surface waterproof and withstand rain, snow, and other environmental pressures.

Also make sure that you check out our blog on “Is chalk paint waterproof?” to get a clear answer to this question that might have popped up in your mind.

Best Chalk Paint for Outdoor Furniture

Everyone loves the farmhouse-chic appeal of chalk paint, and when you combine that with quick-drying properties, we have a winner! However several chalk paint options are available in the market, but only some deliver good results.

To save you the trouble of searching for the best chalk paint for outdoor furniture, here are my top picks for the job:

Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Chalked Paint

The Rust-Oleum chalk paint is a highly versatile option that covers various surfaces like wood, metal, canvas, ceramic, etc. It is perfect for a quick touch-up since it dries in just 30 minutes, but if you want a more professional finish, I’d recommend you wait up to 2 hours before applying another coat.

The paint is effortless to apply and dries down to a contemporary, ultra-matte finish with rustic aesthetics. Another thing I love about the Rust-Oleum Chalk Paint is the exciting variety of colors available, for example, blush pink, coastal blue, serenity blue, etc.

It also comes as a matte clear top coat which is ideal for waterproofing your outdoor furniture.

KILZ Chalk Style Paint

Here is another great option for chalk paint. The KILZ Chalk Paint is perfect for renovating and upcycling your outdoor furniture. It can be used on different surfaces like wood, cast stone, glass, wicker, metal, concrete, etc. Because of its versatility, you can use it on different objects to create a customized look.

The KILZ Chalky Paint is available in 13 colors, so you have plenty of options. Whether you’re looking for a subtle and neutral shade or a bright, eccentric hue, you’re sure to find something that tickles your fancy.

Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint

Krylon is a name you can trust when it comes to excellent color payoff and durability. The Krylon chalk paint is flexible enough to be used on wicker, plastic, vinyl, metal, and other surfaces. Since it is available in aerosol form, it can be sprayed onto furniture quickly and with minimum fuss.

Apart from several practical colors, it is also available in ‘Wax coating,’ which can be used to seal the chalk paint and increase its life.

Chalk paint is a popular choice among homeowners but whether or not it’s an ideal choice for outdoor furniture is debatable.

Here is a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of using chalk paint outdoors.

Advantages of Applying Chalk Paint

1.      No prep work Required

In most cases, prepping your surface is necessary for a good finish. From cleaning the furniture to removing the old paint, sanding, and repairing gaps, you need to spend considerable time getting your surface ready for paint.

However, chalk paint is more forgiving when it comes to application. This is the reason why you can skip the prep work but still achieve a decent finish.

2.      No need for a primer.

While topping off the chalk paint finish with a clear coat is essential, there’s no need to apply primer to the surface before you begin. This helps cut down your painting time that would otherwise be spent on primer application. Another benefit of skipping primer is that your paint job’s total budget decreases as you no longer need to purchase the primer.

3.      Perfect for quick paint jobs

Since there’s no prep work required for chalk paint application, you can start and complete a project on short notice without compromising on its quality. Whether you have to repaint your outdoor furniture on short notice or need just a few quick touch-ups, chalk paint is an excellent option that delivers quick results.

Another perk of chalk paint is its quick drying time compared to other paint finishes. Although the actual drying time can vary based on humidity, the application process, etc., most people vouch that chalk paint doesn’t take too long to dry.

4.      Easy Clean-up

If you’re new to painting furniture, chalk paint is perfect because it is extremely easy to clean. From accidental spills to washing paint brushes, the clean-up is quick and effortless. Also, as a beginner, you have a high chance of getting paint on your hair and clothes, but not to worry because we have you covered! Here is a useful article about removing paint from skin and hair.

Disadvantages of Applying Chalk Paint

1.      More Expensive

Chalk paints are comparatively more expensive than latex paints. This can be a problem if you’re on a tight budget or have several pieces of furniture to color simultaneously.

2.      Too many brush marks

A common problem that many DIYers have observed is that it’s not easy to get a smooth finish with chalk paint. Since the paint dries to an ultra-matte finish, brush marks appear more prominent than in other paint finishes.

A quick way to tackle this issue is using a sprayer or aerosol chalk paint.

3.      You Cannot Skip the Sealer

Sealing the deal is a crucial step that decides the success of your paint job. When you’re painting furniture for outdoors, you cannot skip the sealer application, or else the paint will weather away quickly. This added cost can be avoided if you use a two-in-one paint.

How to Seal Chalk Paint for Outdoor Use?

Sealing the chalk paint finish is necessary if you want to protect it from moisture. Although the paint’s formula has water-resistant properties, it’s not enough for the exposure it will get outdoors. This is why it’s best to apply a sealer after the final layer of chalk paint has dried down completely.

Depending on the surface you’re applying the sealer to, here are a few solid options you can try:

• Wax
• Lacquer
• Polyurethane
• Varnish
• Wood glaze

Remember that the final chalk paint layer should be fully cured before you apply the sealer. If you seal the paint too quickly and the solvent hasn’t fully evaporated from the surface, it will get trapped between the two layers.

The solvent will prevent both finishes from drying, leaving behind a sticky paint film.

FAQs

Can I use chalk paint on exterior door?

Yes, you can color your exterior door with chalk paint as long as you apply a layer of sealer on top to protect it from rain.

Can Rust-Oleum chalk paint be used outside?

Rust-Oleum chalk paint can be used outdoors on surfaces such as wood, ceramic, wicker, metal, etc. The paint’s formula has water-resistant properties, which makes it a good choice for furniture. However, it’s best to add another protective layer of sealer to make the finish waterproof for the outdoors.

Can chalk paint be used on metal?

Chalk paint has a highly versatile formula that can be applied to various surfaces, including metal. Remember to clean any rust from the metal before you layer on the paint for the best results.

Is chalk paint permanent?

Chalk paint is permanent on any surface, from wood and metal to wicker. So, if you get any paint on your rugs or floor by accident, you should try to clean it with soap and water while it is still wet.

Conclusion

Chalk paint is an exciting alternative to regular semi-gloss paint that’s usually used to color furniture. It has an aesthetically pleasing texture that instantly gives your home a modern look. But if you’re concerned about the durability of chalk paint, you can expect it to last for 3 to 5 years when sealed correctly.

So the next time you want to color your outdoor furniture, don’t hesitate to reach out for chalk paint in the paint store.