Types of Paint Sprayers
There are three primary types of paint sprayers:
- Airless paint sprayers
- Air paint sprayers (pneumatic air sprayers)
- High-volume low-pressure (HVLP) paint sprayers
Each type of paint sprayer is suited for different types of projects and coatings. We outline some of the uses below, but capabilities vary by model. Check the instructions for your sprayer and paint, stain or finish. Coatings might require thinning for use with a sprayer.
Airless Paint Sprayers
Airless sprayers work by using very high pressure to atomize paint, spraying the droplets to evenly coat the surface. An airless paint sprayer is a good choice for painting larger surfaces. You can typically apply water-based and oil-based paints and stains with this type of sprayer. Some models can handle finishes like varnishes and lacquers. Airless sprayers can handle thicker paints and stains better than compressed air or HVLP sprayers, but for extremely thick coatings, you need the power of a contractor-grade model.
An airless sprayer works with high pressure. If your skin contacts the sprayer tip, the sprayer can inject paint and toxins under the skin. If this happens, seek immediate medical treatment.
Air Paint Sprayers (Pneumatic Air Sprayer)
Air paint sprayers or pneumatic sprayers uses compressed air to apply paint to a surface, producing a smooth, even finish. A pneumatic sprayer is useful for painting smaller workpieces. However, these sprayers can produce more overspray than others, so make sure your surfaces are taped and masked. Increased overspray also means a pneumatic paint sprayer uses more paint than other types. These sprayers work with water-based and oil-based paints and stains and are often suitable for lacquers. While you need an air compressor and hose, the sprayers or paint guns themselves typically cost less than airless or HVLP sprayers.
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 pressure is set too high. Controlling overspray reduces paint waste and helps prevent damage to other surfaces.
HVLP Paint Sprayers
HVLP paint sprayers disperse droplets of paint at low pressure using a large, steady volume of air. The paint travels slower, so more droplets stick to the workpiece, creating a smooth finish. These sprayers reduce overspray — making them good choices for smaller jobs and detail work — and waste less paint. However, they can cost more than other sprayers. These sprayers can typically apply water-based and oil-based paints and stains. Unless you're investing in an expensive commercial sprayer, avoid using an HVLP sprayer with thick paint, lacquers and varnishes.
- Follow the use and safety instructions for the paint sprayer and the paint or stain you use.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a coverall with particulate protection and closed-toe shows.
- Wear safety equipment such as eye protection, gloves and a respirator. You might also need hearing protection.
- Use a paint sprayer in a well-ventilated area.
When Should I Use a Paint Sprayer?
Paint sprayers can be useful tools for quickly tackling small, medium and large painting projects, but make sure you match the sprayer to the project.
Projects for Different Paint Sprayer Types
- An airless paint sprayer is a good option for painting or staining large exterior surfaces like siding, fences and decks, as well as interior walls and ceilings.
- An HVLP paint sprayer is a good choice for painting cabinets, ceilings and trim in a home interior, and exterior furniture.
- An HVLP or pneumatic paint sprayer is a good option for interior projects like painting furniture, cabinets, trim, moulding and doors.
Our guide on how to use a paint sprayer gives you steps for getting a quality finish with a paint sprayer. Plus, we’ve got tips for interior and exterior paint sprayer projects.
Considerations for Paint Sprayers
- If you’re new to using a paint sprayer, practice on scrap material. Learning the techniques that work best with your model before you paint or stain your workpiece helps create a better finished product.
- Make sure you have extra paint on hand. Sprayers use more paint than rollers and brushes.
- Prep is important. Ensure the area is taped and masked and that you have drop cloths protecting nearby plants when outdoors and your floor when painting indoors. Pay attention to what’s behind the object you’re painting. Ensure you’re wearing your safety gear and have good ventilation.
- Keep your paint sprayer clean. Take your paint sprayer apart and clean it after every use. We have general cleaning tips below.
Paint Sprayer 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:
- Adjustability: With an adjustable model, you can spray paint at various thicknesses and speeds or in different spray patterns.
- Quick Cleanup: Taking apart and flushing out some paint sprayers can be more time-consuming than washing out rollers and pans. Look for models that attach to a garden hose or that include cleaning brushes for fast and easy cleanup.
- Portability: Portable paint sprayers are handy for large projects when easy mobility is essential. Look for handheld and wheeled models.
- Power Options: Power sources differ by model. In addition to pneumatic sprayers, you can choose cordless or corded electric sprayers.
- Coating Compatibility: In addition to sprayers that work with paint, look for models that can apply oil-based stain, lacquer or urethane and varnish.
Paint Sprayer Pressure
PSI, or pounds per square inch measures the pressure created by a paint sprayer. You can often adjust these levels in your paint sprayer for the project and the type of paint or stain you use. Check the documentation that came with your spray gun for pressure recommendations. Test the settings before you begin applying paint or stain to your workpiece.
Paint Sprayer Accessories
- Extension rods let you paint decking with less bending and let you paint hard-to-reach areas like ceilings.
- Different sprayer tips are suitable for different projects, such as painting interior walls or staining a wood fence. You can find different spray patterns, tips that handle different thicknesses of material and more. Our guide to paint sprayer tips helps you choose the right tip for your project.
- Conditioners and protectants are liquid formulas that you can run through 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 and help prevent a clogged tip that can cause paint to splatter.
- Disposable paint strainers give you another method for keeping dirt, debris and other impurities from clogging your sprayer.
- If you're painting a large or long area, such as a fence, get a hose that's at least 25 feet long.
- Disposable cup liners make cleanup easier for some sprayers with onboard paint reservoirs.
How to Clean and Maintain a Paint Sprayer
Proper cleaning and maintenance are vital parts of using a paint sprayer, helping improve performance and prolong the life of your sprayer. Poor cleaning can damage your equipment, so always follow the steps for your sprayer. Here are some general practices:
- Up to a quart of paint can remain in a sprayer when you turn it off — that's paint you could use on your project or save for touch-ups. Be sure to clear the lines after each use.
- Relieve the pressure in the sprayer and lock the trigger before cleaning and maintenance, as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Clean the sprayer according to the sprayer and coating instructions. You might need to use a paint sprayer cleaner to flush your sprayer's whole system. Some sprayers connect to a garden hose for cleaning.
- Remove and clean the filters.
- Once you've cleaned your sprayer, use a protectant or conditioner to keep it dry and lubricated, and to prevent freezing.
How Much Should a Paint Sprayer Cost?
Because of the range of features, paint sprayer costs vary from less than $100 for do-it-yourself sprayers to over $1,000 for professional-grade equipment. When considering how much you want to spend on a paint sprayer, think about:
- What you want to paint
- The types of paint or other coatings you want to use
- The number of projects you want to use the sprayer for
Considering these factors and the features above will help you pick a sprayer that meets your needs.
Find Your Paint Sprayer at Lowe’s
Pick up a paint sprayer before your next painting or staining project. A paint sprayer makes your job quicker and easier:
- Airless paint sprayers can handle large exterior and interior jobs and thicker coatings.
- Pneumatic paint sprayers are good for smaller jobs but require attention to overspray.
- HVLP paint sprayers are also good for smaller jobs and create a fine, even finish.
Shop Lowes.com now and find the perfect sprayer to make your paint projects faster and easier. In addition to the different types, you’ll find models that fit just about any budget. We offer paint sprayers from less than $100 to $400, models between $400 and $1000 and pro-grade models from $1000 and up. Plus, with delivery and pickup options, we make it simple to get your new sprayer. Still not sure which you need? Visit your local Lowe’s to see the options. Talk to a Lowe’s Red Vest associate about your projects and get recommendations on paint sprayers as well as paint and accessories to make this project — and the next — a success.