What part of the curing stage allows for the definition of 'tacky'?

The definition of 'tacky' during the curing stage refers to a condition where the paint has dried sufficiently to no longer be classified as wet, but is not fully cured. When a light touch leaves a slight impression, it indicates that the surface has developed some level of firmness, yet it is still soft enough to show an indentation. This state is critical as it suggests that while the paint has progressed towards curing, it still retains some adhesive properties that can affect subsequent layers of paint or topcoat applications. Understanding this stage is vital for inspectors, as applying additional coatings on a 'tacky' surface can lead to imperfections or adhesion issues in the overall finish.