How Long Does Drywall Mud Take to Dry? (What Pros Know)

Drywall mud typically takes 12 to 24 hours to dry between coats, depending on the type of compound, thickness of application, room temperature, and humidity. Fast-setting mud (hot mud) can dry in as little as 5 to 90 minutes, while all-purpose and topping compounds usually need a full day to cure before sanding or recoating.

What Affects Drywall Mud Drying Time?

Several factors influence how quickly drywall mud dries:

• Type of Mud:

  • All-purpose or topping compound: 12–24 hours

  • Fast-setting (hot mud): 5, 20, 45, or 90 minutes (depending on the mix)

• Room Temperature: Ideal range is 65–75°F

• Humidity: High humidity slows drying dramatically

• Coat Thickness: Thinner coats dry faster and more evenly

How to Speed Up Drying

Want to move the project along? Try these tips:

• Use a box fan or increase ventilation (don’t blow directly on the wall)

• Turn on a dehumidifier to lower moisture levels

• Use hot mud for smaller or time-sensitive jobs

• Apply thin layers rather than thick, heavy coats

Planning Ahead? Estimate How Much Mud You’ll Need

Don’t forget to prep your materials. Use our free Drywall Mud Calculator to figure out how many buckets of joint compound you’ll need for your space.

Also check out our Drywall Calculator and Screw Calculator to keep your entire job organized.

Final Thoughts:

Getting drywall mud to dry properly is key to a smooth finish. While you can speed things up with airflow and fast-setting products, the best results come from patience. Always test for dryness by touch — if the surface feels cool or slightly damp, it’s not ready.