How to Spray Paint Latex

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Latex paint is a water-based paint. The water has been mixed with various acrylics, polymers that are used as binders. Latex paints are valued for their washability, resistance, and adhesion. Latex paints dry very quickly, apply in one coat, and clean up with soap and water. Latex paints are easily applied to most surfaces with paintbrush and/or roller. However, spray painting may be a better choice when speed, surface area, and texture are an issue. Because it reaches crevices and corners, applies a uniform and even coat, and applies a wetter coat that assures better adhesion, spray painting can be the best choice. Small containers of latex paint are readily available in aerosol spray cans, and these work well for small items and surface areas. To tackle the bigger jobs, you need to know the costs and challenges in how to spray paint latex.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Use a hand-held spray-paint gun.

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    • The spray-gun is a virtually self-contained sprayer, electrical with a screw- on container for the paint.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Use an airless spray gun.

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    • Pressure is too high if the coverage is thin or there is a lot of scatter.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Use an HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) paint sprayer.

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    • The HVLP, like the Airless Spray Gun, consists of a paint reservoir, a hose, compressor, and gun with a variety of tips..
    • The high volume (HV) in the sprayer applies more paint, and it does so at low pressure (LP), thereby, reducing overspray.
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What Is The Best Technique To Spray Paint?


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  • Question
    How much water should I add to thin the paint?
    Community Answer
    You would want to start with a small bit, because you can always add more water if the paint needs to be thinner. However, if you add too much at first you won't be able to get it thicker again.
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      Tips

      • Latex paint is water-based, so the most available thinner is water; however, try to use distilled water because tap water has chemicals that may adversely affect the paint.
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      • Wash all tools with lightly soaped water.
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      • Clean up spatter and drips with lightly soaped water.
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      Warnings

      • Seek medical attention immediately if you accidentally inject paint into your skin.
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      • Latex is water-based, so it is not recommended for painting ferrous metals, over wall-paper, or un-primed wood.
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      • Wear safety equipment, including work gloves, goggles, and respirator.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Safety goggles, work gloves, and respirator
      • Paper towels
      • Plastic sheeting and/or drop cloths
      • Paint-spray gun
      • Airless spray gun
      • HVLP spray gun
      • Lightly soaped water = 1 ounce (0.12 metric sup) of liquid dish soap per gallon of water

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