- Power paint sprayers can save the do-it-yourselfer some time, making paint jobs go a lot faster. Not only are they easy to use, a paint gun can cut paint time in half. If used properly, the finish should be just as durable and last as long as if you had painted the surface using a paintbrush or roller. In many cases, people use paint sprayers to paint hard-to-reach areas, wood lattices or roughly textured surfaces like stucco. An electric paint sprayer can be a handy tool for interior painting, especially for painting ceilings and walls. An airless paint sprayer is the best type to use for paint jobs inside the house because it produces less over-spray. If applied correctly, paint won't drip. Paint sprayers can also be used to apply other finishes such as stains and varnishes.
- Powered by electricity, a spray gun works by pulling a trigger to release the paint from a reservoir at the bottom of the sprayer. Plug the sprayer into an electrical outlet at least 30 inches from where you will be working. Test the sprayer first on a large piece of cardboard in order to adjust it to the appropriate setting. You will want to achieve a uniform spray pattern by applying only a minimum of pressure. Begin by painting the ceiling first. Start in a corner and work your way across the room, moving the sprayer back and forth with slow even movements. Try not to swing your arm, as you work. Keep the sprayer about 10 inches from the surface being painted. Spray straight at the surface, moving the sprayer in a smooth motion to apply an even coat of paint. Release the trigger at the end of each stroke. Refill the sprayer, as you need more paint. Once you complete painting an area, check for any missed spots. When you are finished painting for the day, turn off the sprayer and unplug before cleaning. Pull the trigger to release the remaining pressure in the hose, and then clean the paint from the spray gun according to the manufacturer's instructions. After cleaning the spray gun, set the safety lock.
- Put down plenty of drop cloths before beginning. Dress in a long-sleeve shirt and long pants when painting. Wear goggles to protect your eyes, as well as thin plastic gloves to protect your hands from paint. Open windows and doors for proper ventilation while you are painting. If you stop for a break, don't let the spray gun sit for more than 20 minutes to prevent paint from hardening inside the sprayer. Do not use a paint sprayer outside on windy days. Be careful not to point the sprayer toward your body. Because sprayers operate at such high pressure, paint can penetrate the skin. Although it may not seem serious at first, paints contain toxic materials, therefore, you should seek medical attention immediately.
