Home - Garden
Is Adding Water To A Paint Sprayer A Good Idea?
By KELLY CATLIN
Adding water to paint for use in a paint sprayer can significantly improve the application process, allowing for a smoother, more professional finish without brush strokes.
This technique is particularly effective with water-based paints like latex and acrylic, as they mix well with water, ensuring the thinned paint flows evenly through
the sprayer.
For optimal results, it's recommended to mix about a ½ cup of water per gallon of paint to avoid excessive dilution. Always use distilled water to prevent bacterial growth.
Before applying it on a larger surface like a wall, it's a good idea to test the thinned paint on a piece of wood to assess its appearance and adjust the mixture if necessary.
However, watering down paint can lead to potential drawbacks such as decreased adhesion to surfaces, reduced UV resistance, and the risk of pigment particles separating.
Despite these risks, many find the benefits of adding water to paint for spraying purposes worthwhile, especially for extensive projects like painting fences or furniture.