An airless paint sprayer is a painting tool that uses a high-pressure pump to atomize paint into a fine mist. This mist is then shot through a hose to the sprayer's nozzle, which is sprayed onto surfaces. Airless spraying is excellent for painting large surfaces quickly. It's also great for painting in difficult-to-reach places, such as high ceilings or behind cabinets.
How Do Airless Paint Sprayers Work? #
They work by using a pump to pressurize paint and push it through an airless spray gun. When you pull the trigger, the valve opens, and pressurized paint is forced through the sprayer tip—the pressure difference between the paint and the atmosphere cause it to atomize into a mist.
The tip controls the flow rate and spray pattern. Tips come in various types and sizes. For example, you can use a low-pressure tip if you need a fine finish.
Watch the video below to learn more about different sprayer tips available and which to use for your painting scenario.
What Can You Paint with an Airless Paint Sprayer? #
Doors #
Give your old doors a fresh coat of paint. It'll do wonders for the exterior look of your house, even without painting your outside walls.
Windows #
Another way to make your exterior pop is by painting your windows. Just make sure you've got some masking tape on hand. Cleaning paint off windows is no fun.
Trim #
Is your trim looking a bit rough? Give it a blast of new life with a fresh coat of paint. According to Sharper Impressions Painting Co, repainting your bedroom trim can add significant value to your home.
Furniture #
If you have kids or pets, there's a good chance that your furniture could use some touch-up work. Airless spray painting will make this a breeze.
Walls #
Kids seem to think that walls are one giant canvas for them to draw on. Magic erasers work, but once I scrubbed a wall so much it took some of the paint off. Sometimes, you might be better off slapping a new coat of paint on their drawings. Make sure to snap a picture of their work with your phone first.
These are just a few examples of what you can paint with an airless sprayer. As you can see, you can use an airless paint spray gun for various projects, both big and small.
Should You Choose an HVLP or Airless Paint Sprayer? #
HVLP (high volume, low pressure) spray guns use a low-pressure air stream to atomize paint into fine droplets. They're ideal for detailed work, such as painting trim or cabinets. On the other hand, airless units use a high-pressure air stream to break the paint into a fine mist. They're perfect for large surfaces, such as walls and ceilings.
HVLP sprayers are less likely to overspray, so there's less waste. However, they are slower to cover larger areas. An HVLP paint sprayer will result in a smoother, more consistent finish. However, if you're looking for a faster way to paint, stick with airless spraying.
Airless sprayers handle thicker material better than their HVLP counterparts. For example, if you use latex paint, you may have to thin it before using it with an HVLP spray gun. Otherwise, it may gunk up the nozzle.
Conclusion #
If you're looking for a tool to help you get large paint jobs done quickly and efficiently, consider purchasing an airless paint sprayer. You can paint much faster with an airless spray gun than with a paint roller and extension.