How Much Can You Thin Latex?

MarcP

Like the question says, how much? I just built a custom mail/light post with Azek trim boards. Azek recommends usin a latex top coat. I have a Titan airless sprayer which would not require thinning, but there are some tight/intricate spots to spray on the post. I would probably just make a mess using the airless. I also have a 3-stage HVLP sprayer which has great control, and I usually spray oil with it, thinning it down to about 22-28 seconds throught a viscosity cup. Can I thin latex down that much without ruining the paints properties? Thanks

Paintpimp

That is quite a bit of thinning. What kind of HVLP do you have? The best scenario is changing out your needle and cap. Most HVLP's come with a #3 cap and needle. To spray latex you would need to use a #5 cap and needle. You may need to thin slightly to push through. If you have a CS9100 or a ProComp 4900, you should have no problems.

GPI

Problem with thinning too much it not only breaks down the properties that make it work (Elasticity, longevety, coverage etc..) the color you were attempting to acheive is cut also. Use the airless with an adjustable spray tip.

MarcP

Well, I've been doing some research, and I might be buying a Fuji Q4 HVLP system. I want to get into finishing my own projects instead of sending them out, so this looks to be a quality unit with great versitility. The airless is great for latex, but I end up with wasting alot for paint for just doing small projects. After all, it takes nearly half a gallon to prime the pump and the hose with paint. Thanks

Kashmir

Don't forget HVLP is incredibly slower compared to airless. I have a HVLP 4 stage turbine CS9100--used it a couple of times. It just does not pay off using it for my job specifics (mostly new construction and exterior repaints)...I can go almost as fast with the brush after a couple of redbulls..lol..

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Kashmir

BTW i thin my oil paints 5%. i was told so by many reps for SW and Titan---guess it is safe to assume something similar for latex

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Joewho

This is the time I actually would follow the recommendations printed on the paint can.