Types of Paint Sprayers
With paint sprayers, it's important to purchase one that's best suited for the job and the type of paint you'll use. There are three primary types of paint sprayers:
Airless Paint Sprayer
Airless sprayers work by pumping out paint at very high pressure, fanning out droplets to evenly coat the surface. They're good for painting exterior surfaces, such as fences, lattices, decks and shutters, as well as interior walls and ceilings. Airless sprayers can also handle thicker paint better than compressed air or HVLP sprayers.
Handle all paint sprayers with care, but be especially mindful of an airless sprayer, which works under high pressure. If your skin contacts the sprayer tip, it can inject paint and dangerous toxins under the skin. If this happens, seek immediate medical treatment. To help prevent this from happening, wear gloves and long sleeves to protect any exposed skin.
Pneumatic Air Sprayer
A pneumatic or air paint sprayer uses compressed air to apply paint to a surface, producing a smooth, even finish. They're good for painting furniture and cabinets. However, compressed air sprayers are messy and emit more overspray than others. They also use the most paint, but the sprayers themselves cost much less than airless or HVLP sprayers. If you already have an air compressor, you just need a good hose and a paint gun.
HVLP Sprayers
HVLP sprayers carry droplets of paint on a steady but large volume of air. The paint travels slower so that more droplets stick to the surface, creating a smooth finish. These sprayers waste less paint, but they typically cost more than other sprayers. They're good to use on interior projects, such as painting cabinets, trim, moulding and doors. Unless you're investing in an expensive commercial sprayer, avoid using this with thicker paint (lacquers or varnishes).
Overspray happens when paint sprays beyond the intended surface. You'll often see this if there's poor taping or preparation or if the sprayer is set too high.
When Should I Use a Paint Sprayer?
Paint sprayers are useful tools, but they work better on larger surface areas. They're also well suited for situations where a paintbrush can't reach or will cause an uneven finish.
Where to Use
- Large spaces (like house siding)
- Furniture; a fine mist can reach spots where brushes and rollers can't
- An empty room or house
- Walls, ceiling and trim
Considerations
- Paint sprayers are typically used on larger jobs such as an entire room or kitchen cabinets. Consider a roller or brush for small projects.
- Make sure you have extra paint on hand. Sprayers use more paint than rollers and brushes.
- Prep is important. You'll want to ensure the area is taped and covered before you get started.
- Don't forget to take your paint sprayer apart and clean it after every use (keep reading for instructions and tips).
Always use a paint sprayer in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear like eye protection, nitrile gloves and a respirator.
Features
Paint sprayers come with a range of features to customize how you apply paint. These features also add to a paint sprayer's ease of use and effectiveness.
- Adjustable Models: With an adjustable model, paint can be dispensed at various thicknesses and speeds or in different spray patterns.
- Quick Cleanup: Taking apart and flushing out a paint sprayer can be more time-consuming than washing out rollers and pans. Look for models that attach to a garden hose for fast and easy cleanup.
- Portable paint sprayers are handy for large projects when easy mobility is essential. They come in two versions: backpack and wheeled. ·
- Paint sprayers can be powered in different ways, including cordless, electric or gas.
The Importance of PSI
PSI, or pounds per square inch, is a way to measure the pressure created by a paint sprayer. You can adjust these levels in your paint sprayer and will need to do so depending on the project and the type of paint used. It might take some trial and error to figure out the right PSI, but there are many resources online you can use to find the right setting.
Check to see if your sprayer comes with a manufacturer's PSI chart.
Paint Sprayer Accessories
Here are a few accessories that'll make your job easier and extend the life of your paint sprayer:
- Different tips are used for different purposes. They can emit various spray patterns, handle thinner or thicker paint and be used for interior or exterior projects.
- Extension rods allow you to paint decks without hurting your back, and access hard-to-reach areas such as ceilings.
- Conditioners and protectants are liquid formulas that can be applied to your paint sprayer to prevent sticking, freezing, rust and corrosion and to extend the life of your equipment.
- Filters are essential for a smooth finish. They remove debris from paint as well as prevent the tip from getting clogged, which causes paint to splatter.
- Jobs in a smaller space require a shorter hose. If you're painting a large or long area, such as a fence, get a hose that's at least 25 feet long.
- The right gear is essential when dealing with paint and fumes. Wear protective clothing, goggles and a face mask or respirator.
How Do You Maintain a Paint Sprayer?
Proper maintenance is a vital part of using a paint sprayer and will improve performance and prolong the life of your sprayer.
- Use a paint sprayer cleaner to flush your sprayer's whole system after use. This prevents clogs and residue from building up.
- Up to a quart of paint can be left in a sprayer when you shut it off — that's paint you could use on your project or save for touchups. Be sure to clear the lines after each use.
- Remove the filters and rinse in water.
- Once you've cleaned your sprayer, use a protectant or conditioner to keep it dry and lubricated, and to prevent freezing. It's also helpful to lubricate the pistons.
How Much Should a Paint Sprayer Cost?
Because of the range of features, paint sprayer costs varies from $30 for basic sprayers to over $2,000 for professional-grade equipment. The key is to think carefully about what you want to paint, the type of paint you want to use and the number of projects you want to use it for. These and the features listed above will help you pick the sprayer that meets your needs.