Working with paint sprayers requires more preparation. Learn how to get started with paint sprayers for your first project.
A paint sprayer ensures a glass-smooth finish and quality project outcome. It speeds up the job and reduces the amount of work. Moreover, it is a highly recommended painting tool when working with a large space due to its efficiency and precision. However, be warned that paint sprayers are only suitable for large projects and not for minimal jobs.
Before starting your first painting project with a paint sprayer, learn the basic steps on how to use this tool correctly for a mess-free and quality project.
Step #1: Prep the Surface
First of all, prepare for the area you are going to work. Make sure to clean the surface. After doing so, cover the areas you don’t want to get paint on with dust sheets and masking tape.
Take note that paint sprayers can be challenging to control for a beginner. Paint droplets might accidentally land on your furniture and other areas of the room. Masking furniture and other surfaces will prevent mess when you paint.
Also, wear protective gear before dealing with paint and fumes. Wear protective clothing, goggles, a face mask or respirator, and gloves.
Likewise, make sure the area you are working on is well-ventilated to avoid suffocation.
Step #2: Prepare the Paint Sprayer
Check the paint sprayer before use. If you are using an HVLP sprayer, use thinner paint to prevent the paint from clogging the nozzle. You can read from the hvlp sprayer review that beginner type of HVLP sprayers can’t handle viscous paints unless you are using an industrial model. If you are dealing with latex paints, the best choice is an airless sprayer. The latter also works with wood varnish and lacquer.
The ideal temperature for spray painting is 45 to 75 degrees; if it is too cold and the spray gun will clog immediately. Meanwhile, if it is too hot, the paint dries too quickly and easily peels off the surface.
Step #3: Apply the Paint
Do a test before applying the paint. It will help you to assure the coverage is to your liking. Furthermore, practice your movement to ensure you won’t accidentally overspray and likewise keep your strokes smooth.
Start applying the first coat nice and even. Be conscious of your distance from the spray gun to the surface. Make sure your distance is consistent to ensure a smooth and even coating.
Additionally, beware that each type of paint has different characteristics. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the paint.
As you keep on spraying, work slowly on the surface on one-foot-width spaces. Then, try to overlap between spaces to prevent light patches and lines. Once you reach the corners, spray the paint vertically but more quickly to prevent overloading the surface.
Step #4: Check Your Work
After you finish one area, check your work before proceeding on the next surface. Look for missed or light spots. You can use a roller to smooth out the coating.
Step #5: Clean the Paint Sprayer
Once you complete the job, immediately clean the paint sprayer. Don’t let the paint sit for a long time, for it might clog the gun. Follow the manufacturer’s direction on how to clean the paint sprayer you have.