• strict warning: Non-static method Pagination::getInstance() should not be called statically in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 307.
  • strict warning: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 307.
  • strict warning: Non-static method Pagination::getInstance() should not be called statically in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 410.
  • strict warning: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 410.
  • strict warning: Non-static method Pagination::getInstance() should not be called statically in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 344.
  • strict warning: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/buildingsurplus/public_html/sites/all/modules/pagination/pagination.module on line 344.

DO IT YOURSELF

Powered Paint Sprayer Tips 2011/07/28

Power sprayers have truly revolutionized the painting industry. A large-scale job such as painting the exterior of a house would normally take a crew of painters many long hours of brushing, rolling and sweating. With a power sprayer, you can eliminate the need for professional painters and get the job done by yourself in the same amount of time. No more grunting and groaning as you stand on your tip-toes to try and reach the top of the ceiling without having to dig out your stepladder. No more despairing at the thought of having to paint an awkward surface such as rough stucco or lattices. With a power sprayer at your side, no job is too tough.

Paint sprayers, also known as airless sprayers, come in various sizes. Smaller ones work just fine for most jobs; the larger ones are usually intended for professional painters who may be contracted to paint commercial buildings and the like. It’s not recommended you use a paint sprayer outdoors if it’s a windy or breezy day, and only use one indoors if you have plenty of ventilation and a dual-cartridge respirator. For a smaller project that would only take an hour or two, you could get away with using a regular particulate respirator. If you ever start to get a headache or feel woozy, power down your sprayer and seek out fresh air. Don’t resume painting until the following day.

When using a power sprayer, we recommend following these tips to ensure a safe and efficient job:

  • Spray directly at the surface - avoid spraying at an angle as this can cause the coat to become uneven. Keep the tip flush with the surface at all times when painting.
  • Don’t leave the sprayer idle for too long, as the paint will begin to harden after 20 minutes or so.
  • Test the sprayer before starting your real work. Use a large piece of cardboard or junk wood to test on. Adjust the settings until you have a consistent spray pattern with a minimum amount of pressure.
  • Always put safety first. Respirators are a necessity, as are gloves and safety goggles. The paint sprayer is not a toy; never point it at yourself or others as it has the capability to actually force the paint through skin.
  • Whenever you take a break or stop spraying for any reason, make absolutely sure you set the safety lock on the spray gun.
  • The best way to keep an even coat is to keep the sprayer approximately 10-12” away from the surface and then spray several overlapping rows. Try to maintain the same speed as you move the sprayer – approximately 3-4” per second.
  • Multiple thin coats of paint work better than one thick coat of paint when you’re using an airless sprayer.
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