How long do I need to let drywall mud dry before I can put primer then paint over it?

The question should read:





How long before I put the second coat of mud. Then how long before I can sand it down to put the primer? Then how much longer do I wait before I can put the final coat of paint on it?How long do I need to let drywall mud dry before I can put primer then paint over it?
Normally 24 hours is sufficient between coats depending upon the humidity. Lightly sand the first coat before the second coat. Evacuate the dust with a fan and let settle, carefully wipe over the joints with a large moistened (wring it out good) sponge. Some do this after applying each coat of compound in order to reduce sanding time. After allowing 24 hours, follow the instructions listed on the primer and paint you will be using.How long do I need to let drywall mud dry before I can put primer then paint over it?
24hrs----12hrs---5hours---PAINT!!!
Depend on many variables; type of mud, fast set or regular, must be completely dry and easy to sand to a smooth feather edge, use a large fan to expedite the process and thoroughly dust off, clean and then the type of primer,latex or oil and then the final two coats of top paint. Follow manufactures directions on paint cans for time in between coats.
The easy answer is ';until it is dry';. The mud dries by evaporation, so humidity, temperature and air movement all make a difference. If, when you attempt to sand it smooth, you sand off a fine dust then it is dry. If it is not dry it will just gum up your sandpaper.
First coat dry then apply second coat, after second coat dries sand and prime both times drywall mud should be completely dry. Try this for the sanding part, when almost dry take a damp sponge and wipe over the area to help smooth it out faster.
Place a box fan in the room to speed up the process. If where you placed the mud is still cool to the touch the following day it is still damp and needs more time to dry. Do the same with the second coat of mud and be patient. You will need to do some sanding unless you want a crude job. Use a sanding block and mask and smooth it out. Clean up drywall dust and start your priming.