How long will outdoor alkyd paint stay tacky, forever?

by Bev
(Costa Rica)

I had my outdoor metal grating painted two weeks ago with alkyd paint and it is still tacky. It is very humid here in Costa Rica and it rained a few days. Does paint sometimes take a very long time to dry? Does it ever not dry, just stay tacky forever?

• Do nothing and wait to see if the paint dries to the touch then hardens. After a couple of weeks the paint should have dried, perhaps all it needs is a few more days.


• Repaint your metal grating. This time add some "hot" thinner to the paint to help with drying and curing. "Hot" thinner is any solvent that evaporates faster than regular mineral spirits. This can be Xylene or Lacquer thinner. Use small amounts in the paint and test this mixture on a piece of cardboard or wood. Wait until the next day and see if the paint is still tacky. Add more if necessary. Don't use denatured alcohol or acetone.


• You can also try another brand of paint. It's possible what you are using isn't the best for your area.