How to Spray Gun Paint Indoors

When planning to paint large rooms or a large number of walls, it may be beneficial to use a motor, or compressor-driven paint gun as opposed to using a paintbrush and roller. A motorized or compressor-driven paint gun can get the job done quickly, applying the paint evenly to the walls. This saves time by reducing the number of coats needed and minimizes the amount of paint needed for the job.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Motorized or Compressor-Driven Paint Gun
• Paint
• Respirator to Protect Lungs
• Safety Glasses
• Drop Cloths or Covers to Protect Surfaces
• Adequate Ventilation

1. Prepare the room by opening windows and doors for proper ventilation. Cover all surfaces with drop cloths, tarps, or plastic to protect against paint spills and splatters. The over-spray from paint guns can be more pronounced than with other paint techniques, so be sure that all surfaces are adequately protected.

2. Mix paint according to the directions on the paint container label. Paint for spraying needs to be specially mixed. Without proper mixing, the paint may be too thick, and the sprayer may become clogged.

3. Prepare surfaces for painting by making sure that all peeling paint has been removed, and the surfaces are fee of dust, grease, and dirt. Also make sure that the surfaces are dry. This will ensure that the new paint adheres well to the surface.

4. Follow instructions according to paint sprayer instruction manual for proper filling of paint, as each manufacturer may be different. Also be sure to wear a respirator and safety glasses to protect eyes and lungs.

5. Begin spraying by moving the spray gun across the surface to be painted. Then slowly pull the trigger. The paint gun must be in motion before pulling the trigger to prevent over-spray. Be sure to hold the wrist firmly at a right angle to the surface. The heaviest concentration of paint will be in the center of the spray, while the outer edges will be lighter. Overlap the edges so that the paint is applied evenly over the surface. Be sure to keep the spray gun approximately 8 inches from the surface.

6. Follow the spray pattern, overlapping each stroke by about one-third to one-half, being careful not to over-spray. If the surface is over-sprayed, then the paint will drip and begin to sag. The trick is to keep the spray gun as square to the surface as possible. When spraying corners it is best to spray toward the corner as opposed to spraying evenly across. This helps to keep the paint from spraying unwanted surfaces.

7. Keep the wrist firm while spraying. Never swing the spray gun in a back and forth motion while standing in one place. Doing so will put too much paint in the center, while the ends of the stroke will be too thin.

Tips & Warnings

• For easier cleanup, be sure to clean the paint gun and any tools while the paint is wet. Do not wait until the paint dries before cleaning up. In most cases with latex paint, soap and water will work well when cleaning paint supplies.
• Always be sure to wear safety equipment and ventilate. Failure to do so can be a health hazard.