A power paint sprayer makes for quick work of a paint job. With virtually no dipping or dripping required, you can cover a large area with just the press of a trigger. Sprayers are available in various sizes and power ratings for homeowner\’s and contractor\’s specific needs, including applying stains as well as paint.
Types
The basic components of a sprayer include a hose, gun or roller, spray tip and power supply. There are two main types of powered paint applicators, airless and airspray.
Power sprayers can save considerable time, especially on surfaces such as shingle siding. Sprayers are useful for painting deeply textured, hard-to-reach, or surfaces with many nooks and crannies, even rough stucco. Use dropcloths to protect your work area and never use a sprayer on windy or even breezy days.
Tips on using a power paint sprayer:
- Before using the spray, test the sprayer on a large piece of cardboard, and adjust the unit to get a uniform spray pattern with a minimum amount of pressure.
- When spraying, keep the gun about 10 inches from the surface and then spray a succession of overlapping strips, moving the sprayer in a smooth motion and at a consistent pace of about 3 inches per second. Release the trigger at the end of each stroke, and then pull it again as you begin to reverse direction.
- Spray straight at the surface, and avoid swinging your arm back and forth.
- Do not leave the sprayer idle for more than 20 minutes once you’ve begun spraying, or the paint will begin to harden.
- Remember to clean paint from the sprayer if you have finished painting for the day or are taking a break of significant length and carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions
- Always wear protective clothing and gloves, as well as goggles. Do not aim the sprayer head at your body as the powerful jet of paint from a sprayer can force paint through skin. Seek immediate medical attention if that happens.
- Turn off and unplug the unit before you clean the sprayer. Pull the spray-gun trigger to release the remaining pressure in the hose.
- Set the safety lock on the spray gun when you are not spraying.
