Some paints can be too thick to apply if you use a spray gun. The spray gun forces the paint through a tiny nozzle to achieve a consistent spray paint. That is why the paint must be thin enough to quickly come out of the gun. However, if the paint is very watery, it will not cover well and can run and stain.
That is why knowing how to thin water-based paint for the spray gun is imperative to a successful project. And today, we are going to give you a better solution for your next project!
What is Water-Based Paint?
Water or oil is used as a liquid compound of the paint. So you understand that any paint that uses water to carry pigment is known as water-based paint. Water-based paints are also known as acrylic paint as they contain acrylic. We can see its extensive use on home painting, interior and exterior walls, metal, ceilings, etc.
Is Latex Paint Water Based?
Yes, Latex paints are water-based paint. It is ideal for painting walls, trim, wood, aluminum, etc. With an automotive paint gun, you can paint your car or anything smoothly. To check the best automotive paint gun reviews in 2022, See this article.
Do I Need To Thin Latex Paint For Spray Painting?
Yes, you must dilute latex paint before spraying with a paint sprayer. Although latex paint is water-based paint, these are thicker than oil-based paint. So you should thin it before spraying with a spray gun. Whatever it is, an HVLP spray gun or air spray gun.
How To Thin Water Based Paint For Spray Gun: Step by Step
To get the aspired result, you need to thin or dilute the water-based paint before using it with a professional paint sprayer. The dilution needs to be in the correct measurement. Too thin or too thick- both are an obstacle before the desired finish.
Materials Needed:
- Required paint;
- Mixing Bucket;
- Stirring stick;
- A piece of cardboard or wood;
- Measuring cup.
- Ideal for use on interior/exterior surfaces including wood, plastic,...
- Oil-based formula is low odor, resist chips and provides long-lasting...
- Dries to touch in 20 minutes and covers up to 12 sq. ft. per can
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Step 1: Open the Paint Jar:
To dilute the paint, first, open the jar. Use a screwdriver or something similar to conduct the step. Some paints are diluted in the shop before they give you the jar. If this is the situation, you probably don’t need to do anything. Start painting.
But if the paint is not diluted already, you must go through the following steps. Be careful while opening the jar. Do not damage the lid, or you won’t use the lid later.
Step 2: Take the Paint in Another Container:
Now, carefully take the amount you need to another bucket. Be careful to take only the amount you need. Because after dilution, the total amount of paint will increase. It has a risk of wastage.
Also, keep the bucket half-empty; otherwise, the solution will overpour.
Step 3: Mix the Paint:
At this step, you will start the dilution process. It would help if you had a mixing stick. The mixing sticks are available in any paint store. There are a few automatic stirrers available in the market too. Use a ling stick so that it reaches the bottom. Give the paint a good stir to get a homogenous mixture.
Take the stick out. Your paint is ready to be diluted.
Step 4: Measure and Dilute:
After the paint is mixed well, it’s time to thin it. Usually, there is a certain amount that is written in the instruction. Follow the paint spray gun manufacturer’s instructions to do this.
If you are not sure, use it moderately, you can add more if necessary. We recommend using a half cup of water per gallon of paint.
Pour ¼ cup every time; don’t pour all the water needed at once. It makes sure that you don’t make the paint too runny. Stir well with the stick until it gets consistent.
Step 5: Check the Thickness:
Spray a strip of paint onto a piece of cardboard or scrap wood. Keep a smooth movement. If the paint comes out clumpy, you need to thin it more. If a line appears at the top or bottom, you have mixed a lot of water in the paint without diluting it.
Continue painting sample stripes onto the cardboard or wood until the paint flows evenly. When painting, keep the paint sprayer moving constantly. And don’t worry about the clarity of the paint; you can apply other coats on top.
Tips for Obtaining the Perfect Dilution
- Be cautious. Some paints can get in your mouth or eyes. They can be toxic. Wear gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes.
- Read the instructions on your paint jar to determine the right amount of thinner. Water-based paints or latexes are diluted with water; other solvents can be listed in the instructions on the can. Some paints are sold as non-dilatable, so check the label before purchasing.
- Be conservative when diluting. It is easier to add thinner than it is to remove. Try spraying on cardboard until you find the correct consistency. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper air pressure and tip size selection.
Why do We Need to Thin Water-Based Paint?
It is essential to dilute any paint before using spray paint with a paint sprayer. But then again, the dilution will depend on some factors such as:
- Composition of the painting
- Power of the paint gun
The spray gun technique (HVLP sprayer, airless paint sprayer, Wagner spray gun) - Temperature
- Spray technique
The thinning of water-based paint is essential to get a consistent result. The paint spray gun uses nozzles that have narrow openings. To pass through the opening evenly, you need to dilute the paint.
But do you need to dilute a lot or a little?
The solution lies somewhere in between. We must neither exaggerate nor be too short-sleeved.
Diluting the paint too much involves double work. Instead of just going through twice, you would be forced to go through more passes.
On the other hand, if you thin it too little, the color will not be penetrating. And, over time, a film could form, which will peel off.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Can Latex Paint Be Diluted With Mineral Spirits?
If you use clear mineral spirits, you can thin latex paint. Usually, it is a suitable solvent, but it should be clean and clear.
Why Water is the Best Solution to Thin Latex Paint?
As it is water-based paint, it is always best to use water as the solution to thin latex paint. While water is an easy source, there is no need to use other liquids for this work.
Recommended Reading:
- How to Clean Paint Airless Sprayer
- How Long Does Car Spray Paint Take To Dry
- Best Air Compressor for Spray Painting
- What are the Best Spray Paint for Graffiti Beginners
- Electric Sander for Car Paint Removing Work
Final Words
So, that was our take on how to thin latex paint for the sprayer. Was it complicated? We can assure you that it isn’t. But the last piece of advice would be to be careful with the measurement. Since you don’t want to waste a good bucket of paint in a hurry.
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