Buzz
Latex paints are composed of modern synthetic resins that mix well with water, offering a thinner texture and sufficient moisture for use in a spray gun. Astrid Stawiarz/Getty ImagesPaints are categorized into two main types: oil-based (alkyd) paints, which use petroleum solvents as their medium, and water-based latex paints, which use water as their base [source: JoePullaroInc].
There was a time when only oil-based paints were suitable for spraying, as they were thinner than latex paints, dried slower, and didn’t clog the spray gun nozzle. However, modern latex paints now contain synthetic resins compatible with water, making them thinner and more fluid, ideal for spray guns. With today’s technology, you can use airless guns or aerosol cans for spraying latex paints. Still, if you find your latex paint too thick for the spray gun’s nozzle, here’s how to thin it to the right consistency.
Materials Required:
- 5-gallon (18.9-liter) bucket
- Water
- Funnel
Follow these steps:
- Pour the paint into the bucket.
- For every gallon of paint, add ½ cup (118 milliliters) of water.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly.
- To test the consistency, pour the paint through a funnel. If it flows easily, it’s ready for use. If it’s still too thick, add another ⅛ cup (30 milliliters) of water per gallon (3.8 liters), then mix again.
Using a spray gun is easy, but ensuring the paint has the right consistency before starting will make the process much smoother.
Andia/Getty ImagesKeep in mind that adding water will alter the paint's color and impact the drying time. Additionally, you may need to apply more coats to reach the desired finish [source: Sherber].
For a flawless finish, consider renting an airless paint sprayer, which doesn't require you to thin the paint as precisely. Don't forget to wear a respirator mask and cover nearby surfaces that could be affected by paint splatters [source: Stimpson].
Joseph Binks created the first spray gun for painting in 1887. Binks, who worked at Marshall Field's in Chicago, was tasked with painting the store’s basement walls. Realizing how time-consuming brushes were, he invented the spray gun to make the job easier.
