Painting with a spray gun is an efficient and effective way to breathe new life into your home but can be daunting for first-time users. Whether you're tackling the exterior of your house, refreshing the interior walls, or updating pieces of furniture, learning how to use a paint spray gun will save you time and money while achieving a professional finish.

Haymes Paint is Australia's premier family-owned paint brand, made in Australia since 1935, offers high-quality products that can help you achieve professional results, so you can trust we know what we’re talking about in this guide. Keep reading to learn everything from setting up a paint gun to using it on your next project.

How to Set Up a Paint Spray Gun

Preparation is key when embarking on any paint project. Follow these steps to ensure your paint spray gun is ready for action:

1. Assemble the Spray Gun: Attach the nozzle, container, and any filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Note: If you don’t already have access to a paint spray gun, your local Haymes Paint store might have the right unit available for hire. 
2. Select the Right Paint: Choose a paint that suits your project. Haymes Paint offers a variety of options tailored for different surfaces, viewing our interior and exterior paint ranges for helpful information on different application types. 
3. Test the Paint and Spray Pattern: Before starting on your actual surface, test the spray gun on a piece of cardboard to adjust the flow and pattern for even coverage. We also have swatches and samples available so you can ensure you get the perfect shade for your project. 

Painting Different Surfaces

Different surfaces require specific techniques for optimal results:

How to Paint Exterior Walls with a Spray Gun

• Choose the Right Paint: Haymes Solashield is ideal for most exterior surfaces, providing excellent durability and UV protection.
• Technique: Start from the top and work your way down to prevent drips. Spray in a consistent, back-and-forth motion, keeping the gun at a steady distance from the wall.

How to Paint Interior Walls with a Paint Sprayer

• Paint Selection: Haymes Expressions Interior paint is perfect for interior walls, offering a low VOC formula with superb coverage.
• Application: Use even, horizontal strokes. Overlap each pass slightly to avoid missed spots.

How to Paint Furniture with a Spray Gun

• Optimal Paint: Haymes Ultra Premium Trimplus Acrylic Enamel gives furniture a durable, high-quality finish.
• Spraying Tips: Move the spray gun in smooth, controlled motions. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat to avoid runs.

How to Paint Fences with a Spray Gun

• Recommended Paint: Haymes Fence Finish is specially designed for the rough surface of wooden fences, enhancing the wood’s natural beauty while providing protection.
• Spraying Technique: Hold the spray gun perpendicular to the fence. Cover each board entirely before moving to the next to ensure uniform coverage.

How Does an Airless Paint Sprayer Work?

An airless paint sprayer is a powerful device that pumps paint at high pressure through a hose and out a spray tip, directly onto your painting surface. This method eliminates the need for compressed air, atomising the paint into tiny droplets and delivering it in a fine, concentrated mist that coats surfaces smoothly and uniformly. 

Further benefits include:

• Efficiency: Complete projects faster with a continuous, high-pressure stream of paint.
• Superior Coverage: Achieve an even, consistent finish with minimal coats, even on textured surfaces.
• Reduced Overspray: Some advanced models offer control settings that minimise wastage and overspray.

Step-by-Step Spraying Guide

Preparing for Your Project

1. Choose the right paint for your project, view our range or head to your local Haymes Paint stockist to speak to get expert advice.
2. Always wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks.
3. Ensure your working area is well-ventilated.
4. Thoroughly stir your paint and if necessary, strain it to remove clumps.
5. Prime the sprayer as per the manufacturer’s guide—this usually involves running a solvent through the system to ensure it’s clean.
6. Cover all areas not to be painted with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
7. Clean the surface you will be painting to remove dust, dirt, and debris.

Using Your Airless Paint Sprayer

1. Setting Up:Connect your sprayer to the power supply and attach the hose and spray gun.Fill the sprayer’s tank with your chosen Haymes Paint product.
2. Spraying Technique:Keep the spray gun about 30 cm away from the surface.Spray in a sweeping motion, keeping your hand steady to avoid arcs.Overlap each pass by about 50% to ensure even coverage.
3. Aftercare:Clean the sprayer thoroughly following each use to prevent clogs and ensure longevity.Run cleaning fluid through the system until it runs clear.

Cleaning and Maintenance

1. Immediately After Use:Disconnect and clean all parts of the sprayer to remove residual paint.Use soapy water for water-based paints or mineral spirits for oil-based.
2. Maintenance Checks:Regularly inspect your sprayer for any signs of wear or damage.Replace any faulty parts immediately to maintain optimal performance.

Common Sprayer Issues

• Clogging: Regularly check and clean the nozzle and filter.
• Uneven Coverage: Adjust the pressure and check your spray technique.
• Paint Thickness: Ensure the paint is correctly thinned according to the sprayer's specifications.

Get Started On Your Painting Project

With the right tools and techniques, an airless paint sprayer can significantly enhance the quality and efficiency of your painting projects. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, Haymes Paint offers a range of high-quality paint and accessories tailored to your needs.

Visit your local Haymes Paint stockist today to speak with our experts about finding the right paint for your next project, or shop our range online and get ready to paint like a pro with Haymes Paint.