Why use a paint sprayer
There are many benefits to using a paint sprayer instead of a paint brush or roller.
Paint sprayers speed things up as they can cover a large area quickly and easily. They’re also able to cover rough or uneven surfaces and get into those hard to reach places, like corners—while leaving a finish that looks like it was done by a professional.
If used properly, paint sprayers waste less paint, saving you money.
When you’ve all finished painting, paint sprayers are much easier to clean than a brush or roller and you don’t need to wash things like roller trays or paint stirrers.
Choosing the right paint sprayer
With a few different paint sprayers on the market, it’s important to choose one that’s right for you and your job.
There are two common types of paint sprayers—hairless and high volume, low-pressure (HVLP).
Airless paint sprayers have an electric motor that draws paint up and forces it out of its nozzle at high pressure.
HVLP sprayers atomise the paint under low pressure to create a very fine spray.
Airless paint sprayers
Traditional high-pressure airless sprayers come in a range of models from small, handheld units to semi-professional models for big projects. They’re perfect for small to large, broad exterior surfaces like fences, pergolas, sheds, weatherboards, gazebos, garage doors, lattices and walls.
Use them with water-based paints (acrylics) and with oil-based paints, primers, topcoats (enamels), aluminium paints, wood preservatives, polishes, oils and stains.
Fine paint sprayers
Traditional fine sprayers use high volume, low pressure (HVLP) technology and are known as a finishing tool. They’re perfect for small to medium high quality, precision spraying projects around the house and garden, like gutters and pipes, furniture, shelving, cabinetry, window frames, shutters, architraves and more.
You can use them to spray oil-based paints and primers, wood preservatives and stains as well as water-based paints (acrylics) and primers.
Paint sprayer preparation and safety
Remember, preparation and safety are important so ensure you cover yourself and cover surfaces with drop cloths and tape before you start. Then simply pour the paint into the sprayer and you’re ready to go.
Your paint might need thinning with water or turpentine, so check the paint sprayer’s instructions before you get started.
If you want to learn more about using a paint sprayer then watch our How to use paint sprayers video.
Get your paint sprayer
Check out the full range of paint sprayers available at your local Bunnings.