HVLP paint sprayer

[bertman77]

Can I / should I use a HVLP paint sprayer like the following:



Or stick with a high quality roller?

[Brian12]

I personally will be using a paint sprayer on my next cab...I think its easier and faster..while others say it takes the same amount of time...I think its less time...1 min to spray a side of the cab and it will dry faster..yes sanding takes same amount of time for both but, the process of painting, drying, and even coats I think it will be better.

[BadMouth]

I have this cheap little one:


No matter how thinned, it applies paint in spitballs.
I end up with a textured pattern that I kinda like on my metal shed, but wouldn't want on my interior trim.
The longer it's used, the hotter the air it's blowing gets which dries the paint mid-air even more, which leads to more spitballs.
It also creates somewhat of a paint cloud, so I only use it outside.

I think the texture would work on a cab as long as you aren't applying side art over it.

The newer Wagner ones supposed to be much better.

[lamprey]

I've been debating about what to do here myself. I already have a compressor and a sprayer, so I'll probably use that to see how it works. You might want to take a look over at KLOV as there has been some discussion in the Restoration section about using a dedicated compressor and gun vs an all in one system. The all in one systems seem to have varying degrees of success.

[vwalbridge]

I've been debating about what to do here myself.

Me too.

I've had The Wagner 0529021 and The Wagner 0518080 sitting in my Amazon cart for over a year. That's how "on the fence" I am on the subject.

You are absolutely right about them having differing results. Just look at the Amazon reviews.

Spraying can really be nice but you have to do it inside a paint booth of some kind for good results. Period. And that has it's own expense and setup time/space. Not to mention the mess it makes and the required safety gear like respirators, exhaust fans, etc.

For now, I just keep using a dense foam roller and Floetrol.  Rolling on paint requires nearly zero setup time and cleanup is as simple as closing the paint lid and throwing away the roller and tray.

[Edit by mod:  2nd link fixed]

[aldub516]

i had a lot of painting misadventures. Then i discovered formica siding and can never look back. I can build a spaceship out of wood no problem, but ask me to do fine details such as painting or sanding, and im screwed lol. I didnt have the patience or skill for those fine tuned end details. Formica was my personal savior