How to Paint a Room: The Wait Before Removing the Tape
- 1). Figure out how long it will take you to do your job and then get a tape that you can leave on for at least that period of time. Many painters' tapes print the duration they can safely remain on the wall right on the package. For a short job with latex paint, any tape should do. For a long-term decorative job, find a tape that has a longer "safe release" period.
- 2). Burnish your tape with a rag by rubbing it over the tape when you apply it. This will help it adhere and block out seepage.
- 3). Wait until the paint is dry before you remove it. Latex paint will usually dry in one hour, but under some conditions it can take up to six hours. Oil paint will take a minimum of eight hours to dry, but could take overnight or longer, up to 24 hours. It is better to give a little more time than less, as paint that is dry to the touch may be wet underneath.
- 4). Remove the tape with an even pull, perpendicular to the wall. A steady pull will keep the tape from ripping.
- 5). Remove old masking tape with soap and warm water. If you let the soapy water soak in for a minute, it will loosen the adhesive on the tape.