A paint sprayer can make short work of a large DIY project, but using a paint sprayer improperly is a recipe for disaster. Not only can it result in uneven coverage and drips, but it can also lead to wasted paint and a messy work area. So before you embark on your next DIY venture, it’s a good idea to first learn how to use a paint sprayer like a pro.
| Your Investment | |
| DIY skill level | Moderate to high |
| Approximate time | Depends on the project |
| DIY cost of safety equipment | $35 to $78 |
| DIY cost of prep equipment | $17 or more |
| DIY cost of painting equipment | $68.50 to $608.50 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $120.50 to $703.50 |
Spray painting is an effective technique that’s tough to master. The approximate time it will take to spray paint depends on your project. To give you an idea, though, it’s best to wait 24 hours between each coat of paint.
For prep, it’s crucial to protect the environment surrounding your project. Spray painting can get messy. Depending on the size of your project, you should pay at least $17 for a covering such as a tarp and painter’s tape. You might also need to buy other prep equipment, depending on what you’re painting.
Last but not least, you need paint, a paint strainer, and a spray gun. As you’ll see below, there are a variety of options out there. Your painting equipment could cost anywhere between $68.50 and $608.50. However, it might cost more or less, depending on how much paint you need.
This means that your project will most likely cost between $120.50 and $703.50. Learn more about the equipment you need and how to use it below.
Also, for more information about the costs of painting outside, check out our Exterior House Painting Cost article.
Paint Spraying Equipment
Safety Equipment
Paint contains chemicals that you don’t want to be exposed to. That’s why it’s important to wear the proper safety equipment when using a paint sprayer. This includes:
| Safety Equipment | Estimated Cost |
| Disposable gloves | $9 (for 100) |
| Safety goggles | $9 |
| Respirator (for spray painting) | $17 to $60 |
| Total | $35 to $78 |
Additionally, you should wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, an apron, and close-toed shoes. You should also be in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to fumes and ensure proper air circulation.
Prep Equipment
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary safety equipment, the next important step is to protect your surroundings. The prep equipment you need depends on your project. However, you’ll almost always need some form of drop cloth or tarp to cover the area you’ll be painting. Covering up the surrounding area prevents accidental overspray or drips. You can get a tarp for $12 and may need multiple.
It is also recommended to use painter’s tape to mask off any areas that you do not want to be painted, such as trim or windows. You can get painter’s tape for about $5.
This totals your prep equipment to at least $17.
Painting Equipment
Last but not least, don’t forget to get painting equipment.
| Painting Equipment | Estimated Cost |
| Paint | $10 to $100 per gallon |
| Paint sprayer (HVLP or airless) | $50 to $500 and more |
| Paint strainer | $8.50 for a pack of 50 |
| Total | $68.50 to $608.50 |
Paint costs vary greatly depending on the type of paint you choose. Some types of paint, such as high-quality brands or specialty finishes, can be more expensive than others. You also need to take into account how much paint you’ll need; it may be less or more than one gallon.
You’ll also need a paint sprayer. First, you should decide whether you need an HVLP air sprayer or an airless sprayer. A HVLP paint sprayer usually costs $50 to $80. It’s best for smaller surfaces, furniture, or detailed work. An airless sprayer, on the other hand, is more suitable for larger surfaces like walls or fences. It typically costs around $150 to $500, but may cost even more.
To be able to pour your paint down smoothly, you should use a paint strainer; you can get a pack of 50 for $8.50. If you buy more, you may be able to get a discount.
That means you should be ready to invest at least $68.50 to $608.50 in painting equipment. This sum may be smaller or greater, depending on how much paint you need.
How to Spray Paint
- Prep: Spray paint can easily wreak havoc on surrounding surfaces. For that reason, it’s important to properly prep the area before starting. This includes covering nearby objects and surfaces with drop cloths or tarps to protect them from overspray. You can also use painter’s tape to avoid painting unwanted areas.
Additionally, make sure to clean and prime the surface you’ll be painting to ensure proper adhesion of the paint. Taking these steps will help you achieve a professional-looking finish. - Strain the paint and fill the reservoir: After prepping the area, the next step is to strain the paint to remove any lumps or impurities that could affect the smoothness of your finish. Once strained, fill the reservoir of your spray paint gun with the strained paint.
- Test the paint sprayer: Before starting to paint, it is important to test the paint sprayer on a scrap piece of material or a small, inconspicuous area. This will allow you to adjust the spray pattern and pressure to ensure an even and consistent application of paint.
- Adjust the nozzle: If you’re painting side-to-side, adjust the nozzle vertically. If you’re painting up and down, adjust it horizontally.
- Apply paint: Place your paint sprayer 10 to 12 inches from your target. Be sure to keep this distance consistent and hold it with a steady hand at a perpendicular angle. As you apply paint, remember that you should move the sprayer in short strokes. Start moving the gun before you pull the trigger.
- Clean up: Disassemble the paint sprayer and clean each component thoroughly. Pay close attention to the nozzle and any clogs or buildup that may have occurred during use.
Once cleaned, reassemble the sprayer and store it in a safe and dry place until its next use. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your paint sprayer will help ensure its longevity and optimal performance for future projects.
And if you have to deal with any paint spills, be sure to check out our How to Clean up Paint Spills article.
Is it your first time spray painting? Don’t worry; spray painting can be intimidating at first, but with practice and the right techniques, you’ll quickly become more comfortable.
Here’s full video tutorial:
Dos and Don’ts of Spray Painting
Spray painting can quickly become a messy business, so before you first pull the trigger, make sure you have these dos and don’ts down:
| Do | Don’t |
| Get the right safety equipment | Wear unsuitable clothing, open-toed shoes, or no PPE |
| Get the right spray gun | Use an airless spray gun for a small project, or an HVLP spray gun for a large project |
| Use a paint strainer to pour paint smoothly | Ignore lumps and impurities in your paint |
| Test the spray gun | Use your spray gun on your project before testing it |
| Adjust your nozzle as needed | Use your gun without caution |
| Place your spray gun at a perpendicular angle, 10 to 12 inches away from your target, and hold it steadily | Hold your spray gun too close or too far from the target |
| Pull the trigger after you begin moving your gun in short strokes | Pull the trigger while the gun is stationary |
| Clean your spray gun properly | Leave any clogged paint or buildup to dry |
FAQ
Is temperature important for spray painting?
Yes; while most people might not consider the weather when deciding to spray paint, it actually has a significant impact on the outcome. Direct sunlight and hot weather can cause the paint to dry too quickly, leading to a rough or uneven finish.
On the other hand, painting in cold temperatures may clog your gun. If you paint when it’s between 50°F and 90°F, you should be fine.
Check out our painting weather guide for more details.
Do you need 2 coats of spray paint?
Yes, it’s best to apply two coats of spray paint after primer. Make sure you leave sufficient time between applications so that your paint can dry, too.
Should I use an airless paint sprayer?
Airless sprayers are better for larger surfaces like walls and siding. They’re fast and efficient, but they don’t offer a lot of precision. If you’re painting a smaller surface, like trim or furniture, an air or HVLP sprayer is a better option.
What is an HVLP spray gun?
HVLP stands for “High Volume Low Pressure.” HVLP spray guns are commonly used for painting smaller surfaces such as furniture, cabinets, or trim. They provide higher transfer efficiency and produce less overspray than conventional spray guns.
What kind of sprayer works with latex paint?
An HVLP spray gun is a great choice for applying latex paint. The high volume and low pressure of the HVLP system allow for a smoother and more even application of the paint, resulting in a professional finish. However, smaller, cheaper HVLP guns with less power won’t be able to handle thicker latex paints and may result in uneven coverage.
Make a Smart Choice for Your Painting Project
And that, in summary, is how you use a paint sprayer. Now that you know how to use a paint sprayer like a pro, make sure you also learn how to use a paint brush like a pro.
Many times, it’s possible for homeowners to do a decent paint job on their own. However, if you’re not sure what you’re doing or want to save yourself hassle, you can’t go wrong with calling a pro.
Ready to take the next step in your home improvement journey? Find a painting pro in your area.
Main Image Credit: ungvar / Adobe Stock / License
