How to Use a Paint Sprayer on Your Exterior

When you plan to paint the exterior of your home, a paint sprayer can help you get the job done more quickly. It will also create a smooth and even finish that looks great. That said, it is important to understand how to get it done. Continue reading to learn how to use a paint sprayer on your exterior.

Start by Cleaning the Exterior

The first step is to power wash the exterior of your home. It doesn’t matter what your home is made of; power washing will remove any dirt or debris, as well as any loose paint. This will prepare the surface so that the paint can adhere to it. You should let the siding dry for a few days to make sure that it is completely dry before you paint.

Prepare the House for Painting

Next, you will want to prepare the house for painting. You should start by priming any exposed wood and fix any damaged areas. Cover light fixtures and protect any bushes nearby by covering them in plastic.

Get your paint sprayer ready as well. If you haven’t used a paint sprayer before, you can test it out on a large piece of cardboard. This will help you get a feel for the sprayer before you use it. Hold it at least 12 inches away from the surface and keep it parallel to the surface.

Start with the Eaves and Trim

It is a good idea to start by painting the eaves and trim. This way, you won’t damage your paint job. Make sure that you put the tip on for the direction you plan to spray, and make sure that it isn’t windy outside. Start with the eaves and then you can spray the trim, including the trim around your windows.

Paint the House

Now you can paint the house. Wait for the trim to dry, and then use painter’s tape to protect it with plastic. For the siding, most people recommend that you use the 515 tip that comes with the sprayer. It will give you coverage and it works great for latex paints.

When you start, begin at the top of your home and work down from there. You can start out on a ladder and paint in wide sections before moving the ladder over to the next section. Make sure that you do the entire width so that the paint doesn’t dry. You should point the spray gun up and then go at an angle towards the bottom of the row you are working on.

If you notice any drips, you can even them out with a paintbrush and then return to spraying. Keep going until your entire house is finished. Once you finish, let your house dry completely and then you can remove the plastic and the painter’s tape.

Final Words

Spray painting your home is a rewarding project. It can completely transform the exterior of your home. When you have a spray gun to do the work, it takes less time and looks great.