Term: air-drying

Air-drying refers to the natural process of allowing a material—such as paint, wood, or other substances—to dry or cure by exposure to air at ambient (room) temperature, without the use of artificial heat sources like ovens or heat guns.

In painting, air-drying typically describes how certain types of paints (like water-based acrylics or oil-based enamels) dry through the evaporation of solvents or water when exposed to air. The drying time can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, airflow, and the type of paint used.

In woodworking or construction, air-drying can also refer to the process of reducing the moisture content of timber by storing it in a well-ventilated area over time, as opposed to kiln-drying.

Key points:

• Relies on natural airflow and ambient conditions.
• Common in painting, woodworking, and finishing trades.
• Slower than forced drying methods but often more energy-efficient.