Can I put primer/paint on top of joint compound that is not dry yet?

[Kolesar]

I put the joint compound on 24 hours ago. A few thick parts are still darker and pliable if I push it with my fingernail. Damp.

I have a few moldings to nail and then I am ready to prime this. I cannot wait to get this closet in order. I have stuff everywhere!

I am planning to use latex primer.

[NMDemDist2]

1. you may have cracking later

which is why you wait to prime, just in case the compound shrinks and cracks in the deep parts

[Kolesar]

2. Yes.

Now I am running behind on the installation of the trim so it may not matter. Time for Ken Burns on audio!

[Viva_La_Revolution]

3. you shouldn't

you can totally mess up the patch. Do you have a hairdryer? even a fan pointed on high helps, add heat if you can.

[Kolesar]

4. I waited it out.

Did the primer the next day. Was putting the last coats on at 1:30 in the morning. The paint fumes gave me a headache.

[Warpy]

5. Only if you want bubbling and cracks

because that drying process is producing water vapor. That water vapor will build up under the paint and cause a lot of problems.

Just sigh and groan and go fishing or something until the joint compound dries.