How to Paint a Room

Home renovation

Using an Airless Sprayer for Painting

An airless sprayer is the most effective way to apply paint for larger painting tasks. It uses an electrically powered hydraulic pump to move the paint from a bucket or container, through a tube, to a high-pressure hose, a spray gun, and then to the surface. Once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to use, but if you rent one, make sure you get written instructions.

The instructions will tell you how to flush the system with solvent to clean it (usually water or mineral spirits, depending on the paint you’ll be using) and how to pump the paint through the hose to the spray gun. To clean up, pump the leftover paint out and flush it with solvent.

You’ll only need the spray rig for a day or two, but plan to spend at least another day beforehand to thoroughly mask off everything you don’t want to paint. Tape drop cloths to every floor surface. Drape windows, the fireplace, and doors. Remove all hardware or cover it with masking tape. Mask switches and outlets. Paint from a sprayer travels on the tiniest of air currents and settles a fine mist of overspray on just about every surface in a room.

Plan to keep at least one window in each room open and set up an exhaust fan to draw paint vapor out of the room. Be sure, too, to wear a painters’ mask, a hat, and old clothes with long sleeves to protect your arms.

Airless sprayers are equipped with several filters to keep paint particles and foreign matter from clogging the spray tip, but it’s a good idea to filter the paint yourself through a nylon stocking or paint filter before you pump the paint through the hose.

 

 

Using an airless sprayer effectively takes some getting used to, so plan to practice on some scrap plywood or an inconspicuous part of the room or the house. The object is to cover the surface with a uniform coating of paint. Hold the spray gun a constant 6 to 12 inches from the surface and maintain this distance with each pass of the gun. Keep the gun precisely parallel to the wall. Don’t sweep it back and forth or you’ll end up with a wide arc of paint on the wall; the paint will be concentrated in the middle of the arc and almost transparent at each end.

Paint about a 3-foot horizontal strip at one time, then release the trigger and drop down to paint another strip of the same length, overlapping the first strip by one-third to one-half. Once you’ve covered a 3-foot-wide area from the top of the wall to the bottom, go back to the top and start another 3-foot section adjacent to the first, overlapping the edge of the first painted area by several inches as you work your way down the wall again.

When using a spray gun, it’s important to check that the paint is being applied evenly to the surface. Too much or too little paint can cause running or show the old paint underneath. This could be because the spray gun is not being held at a consistent distance or is being tilted in the wrong direction. Tilting upward will cause excess paint to be delivered to the bottom of the strip, while tilting downward will concentrate it at the top.

To prevent paint buildup at the end of each strip, release the trigger on the gun just before it stops moving. When starting a new strip, begin moving the gun just before compressing the trigger. It’s also important to make sure the paint has been thinned properly and the pressure control is adjusted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the paint is too thick or thin, or the pressure is too high or low, it won’t atomize properly.

When using an airless sprayer, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as the high pressure used can be dangerous. Always use the safety lock when the gun is not in use, and make sure it has a trigger guard and safety shield. If the spray tip becomes clogged, never try to clear it with your finger while the sprayer is in use. Always work in a well-ventilated area, wear a mask, and never leave the sprayer within reach of children or pets.

Once you know how to use your equipment properly, it’s time to start painting. For more information on different types of interior paints and how to apply them, click here.

FAQ

1. What tools do I need to paint a room?

To paint a room, you will need the following tools: a paint roller, a paintbrush, a paint tray, painter’s tape, drop cloths, a ladder, and a stir stick. You may also need sandpaper, spackle, and a putty knife if there are any holes or cracks in the walls that need to be repaired.

2. Do I need to prime the walls before painting?

It is recommended to prime the walls before painting, especially if the walls are a dark color or if there are any stains or marks on the walls. Primer will help the paint adhere better and will also cover up any imperfections on the walls.

3. How do I choose the right paint color?

When choosing a paint color, consider the mood you want to create in the room and the other colors in the room such as furniture, curtains, and accessories. It is also helpful to test a small area of the wall with the paint color to see how it will look in the room.

4. How do I prepare the room before painting?

First, remove all furniture from the room or move it to the center of the room and cover it with a drop cloth. Remove any switch plates, outlet covers, and light fixtures. Clean the walls with soap and water and let them dry completely.

5. Should I paint the ceiling or walls first?

It is recommended to paint the ceiling first and then the walls. This will prevent any drips or splatters from getting on the walls.

6. How do I use painter’s tape?

Apply painter’s tape along the edges of the walls, ceiling, and trim to protect them from paint. Make sure to press the tape firmly to prevent any paint from bleeding through. Remove the tape while the paint is still wet to avoid pulling off any dried paint.

7. How do I use a paint roller?

Dip the roller into the paint tray and roll it back and forth to evenly distribute the paint. Start at the top of the wall and roll the paint in a “W” or “M” shape. Blend the paint with a light touch to avoid leaving roller marks.

8. How do I use a paintbrush?

Use a paintbrush to cut in along the edges of the walls, ceiling, and trim where the roller cannot reach. Dip the brush into the paint and tap it against the side of the paint can to remove any excess paint. Apply the paint with long, smooth strokes.

9. How long should I wait between coats of paint?

Wait at least two hours between coats of paint to allow the paint to dry completely. If you are painting with a darker color, you may need to wait longer between coats.

10. How do I clean up after painting?

Clean the paint roller and brush with soap and water and let them dry completely. Remove the painter’s tape while the paint is still wet. Fold up the drop cloths and dispose of any paint cans or other materials according to local regulations.

11. How long does it take for paint to dry?

The drying time for paint varies depending on the type of paint and the humidity and temperature in the room. Generally, it takes about 24 hours for the paint to dry completely.

12. How do I touch up paint?

To touch up paint, use a small brush to apply the paint to the area that needs touch up. Blend the paint with the surrounding area to avoid leaving brush marks.