Can You Use Eco-Friendly Paint in an Airless Sprayer?
Many people wonder if eco-friendly paints are applied or perform any differently than conventional paints. It can definitely vary from formula to formula and it depends on the specific situation, so consumers are wise to ask questions. Today, we’re answering a question we received on Facebook. Mary asked: “Can the primer and paints be sprayed on the walls or do they need to be rolled?” Simply put, yes - you can use eco-friendly paint in an airless sprayer. Here are all the details you’ll need to know:
Eco-friendly paints can be sprayed using an airless paint sprayer - as long as you choose the right one. Many furniture makers use HVLP ( high volume low pressure ) spray systems, which our products will not work with. HVLP systems are designed for spraying thin or loose-bodied products such as lacquers and some furniture epoxies. An airless paint sprayer is used for more conventional paint coatings such as are offered in our lines.
Using an airless sprayer, we would recommend the following:
- Interior wall primer: apply at 1600-1800 psi using a .015”-.017” tip
- Interior wood primer: apply at 1800-2000 psi using a .017”-.019” tip
- Interior wall or trim paint: apply at 1600-1800 psi using a .015”-.017” tip
The pressure controls the flow of product that is fed through the “gun” and can be increased or decreased depending on the applicator. The faster they spray, the higher the pressure should be -- and the slower they spray, the lower the pressure.
Note: These are just guidelines. We would caution setting the pressure too high or too low as this could result in problems such as “fish eyeing” or spitting. Also, the tip size should not be varied because this refers to the orifice size needed to allow the paint to pass through based on its viscosity. Have questions about eco-friendly paint or other eco-friendly finishes? Leave them in the comments below. We’re happy to help!
