Paint for a spray gun used to be expensive and difficult to find. Is it necessary to purchase specialized paint for a spray gun?

It didn’t matter if you were spraying interior or exterior environments. Past latex paints contained resins that were not compatible with water.

That meant only oil-based paint with petroleum solvents could be used.

Today’s latex paints are a different story. Modern latex paint contains a series of new synthetic resins that are compatible with water. so yes, you can think paint with water!

That makes it possible to create a thin consistency while maintaining the wetness of the paint for the sprayer.  Now, paint for a spray gun is simple to find. 

But, what sprayer paint will provide you with the consistent and professional results you require?

Paint for Spray Gun Buyer’s Comparison Chart

Because latex paint is a viable option today, oil-based paints are typically reserved for specialty projects now.

Modern latex paint can be applied in a variety of environments and is offered in several different color options. That makes it possible to use an airless gun with your paint, sometimes without the need to thin it. 

Picture	Name	Our Rating	Price
Picture	Name	Our Rating	Price
	Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Latex 1-Quart Black	4.1	$
	Valspar 65000 Premium Interior/Exterior Latex Enamel	4.0	$
	Old Village Black Satin Old Village Acrylic Latex	4.8	$
	Majic Paints Latex Flat Barn and Fence Paint	4.8	$$$$$+
	Valspar Porch and Floor Latex Satin Enamel	4.0	$$$
	Kilz Interior/Exterior Porch and Patio	4.4	$$
	Painter's Select Everyday Satin Latex	4.8	$$
	Valspar Contractor Grade White Latex	4.7	$$$$
	Kilz Self-Priming Masonry Paint	4.8	$
	True Value White Flat Wall Paint 5 Gallon	4.8	$$$

What is Latex Paint?

When buying paint, you will notice that most cans, even the ones that say acrylic, will also be labelled as latex.  This can be confusing.

The term latex seems to be applied to most paints (acrylic, vinyl acrylic etc.) because they are water based.  If you are looking for 100% acrylic or an acrylic vinyl blend for your project, expect to pay more than with regular latex paint.

Latex paint does not contain latex from the rubber plant. The term ‘latex’ in the paint world refers to the binding agent in the paint.  Folks that are allergic to latex, don’t have to worry about latex paint!

Latex is a water based paint and the terms acrylic and latex are sometimes used interchangeably.  Water based means that the color or pigment of the paint is carried by water instead of oil.  

Latex paint have a short drying time and are easy to clean. Unlike other kinds of paint, latex paint has minimal odor and less chemicals called VOC’s* are in the air while you’re painting and as the paint dries.

*VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compound.  These compounds become gases and vapors and come out of the paint when you are painting and as it dries.  If you can, always purchase low VOC paint and if you can’t, wear a mask while working and ALWAYS work in a well ventilated area.  you can even purchase environmentally friendly paint now.  Fantastic!

How to Thin Paint for a Spray Gun

If your latex paint is too thick, then it will clog the nozzle of your preferred gun. That creates a massive mess behind the trigger and can even ruin your equipment.

Thankfully, there is an easy process available to thin latex paint for spraying, so it meets the standards that the manufacturer expects. So, how do you thin paint for spraying? Can you thin paint with water? The answer is yes and…

It’s easier than you think!

Be sure to grab the following materials before getting started.

• Water access.
• Several paint stirring sticks.
• A large funnel.
• A 5-gallon bucket.
• Your preferred paint

How to Mix Paint for a Spray Gun in 4 Easy Steps

Thinning paint for a spray gun is a simple process that anyone can do.  Once you’re ready to get to work, you’ll want to follow these steps.

#1. Pour all of your paint into the bucket that you intend to use for that day.

#2. Add ½ cup of water to the paint for every gallon of paint that was placed in the bucket.

#3. Mix the paint and water thoroughly with a clean stirring stick.

#4. Check the consistency of your paint by running it through the funnel.

Paint Consistency

If the paint is able to flow freely through the funnel, then you have the correct consistency.

Should the paint clog up in the funnel, then add another 1/8 cup of water to the paint/water mixture in the 5-gallon bucket for every gallon of paint used.

Then thoroughly mix the product with another clean stir stick.

Continue this process, adding 1/8 cup per gallon, as necessary until the paint flows freely through the funnel.

If your latex paint is still not thin enough for your spray gun, add small amounts of water and test until you reach the right consistency for spraying.

Important!

Note: Once water is added to latex paint, the characteristics of the paint will change. The color may be lighter or darker and the drying time may be different.

Thinner paint typically requires 3-4 coats for complete coverage and a desired finished, compared to 1-2 coats of standard latex paint.

Best Paints: Interior Paint Types

Latex paints are the most common type of paint for spray guns today.

The combination of cost, shelf life, and longevity of quality make it one of the best paints available.

There are other types of indoor paint that will also work with a spray gun if they are thinned to the correct consistency.

Here are the most common options available right now.

• Vinyl Paint. This type of paint is a combination of water and plastic. That makes it lightweight, glossy, and sometimes waterproof or weatherproof. It is easy to clean and maintains its luster for a long time.

• Alkyd. This type of paint is heavier than vinyl and made from polyester and fatty acids. It should be used on wooden surfaces, like door trim. Some types are excellent for painting ceilings as well.

• Lacquer. This paint type requires a lot of work, but it also provides a long-lasting experience. It prevents oil or dirt from damaging the surface it is on. It also requires a spray Lacquer also requires 4-7 coats and you must sand after each coat you apply for best results.

• Enamel. Enamel vs latex: the difference is that enamel provides a much tougher surface than latex which increases durability in a high trafficked area. A good option here is to add a layer of enamel over a layer of latex.  

• Acrylic. If you need instant results, go with this paint type. It works well on all surfaces, especially if you want more of a matte finish.

Can I Use Exterior Paint Indoors?

You can use any paint anywhere, but it is recommended that you use indoor paint only on your indoor surfaces. 

Why?  Not only will your results not be what you expected if you use exterior paint indoors, but indoor paints are specifically formulated for indoor wear and tear. 

They allow you to scrub and clean them and they resist staining.  Indoor paints are low VOC, meaning they emit much less chemicals into the air while you are painting, while the paint is drying, and afterwards.

Exterior paints are designed to battle the outdoor elements and resist fading and mildew.  Exterior paints are great at resisting humidity and UV exposure. 

The only instance we can recommend an exterior paint indoors, is for a very high humidity bathroom.  Even then you can find indoor paint that will resist humidity and mildew.

How Much to Budget for the Best Indoor Paint?

Most latex paints that are suitable for a spray gun range in price from about $20 per gallon to over $60 per gallon. Certain specialty paints may run even higher than this. 

Be careful about shopping for interior latex paint if you intend to use a spray gun. Several paint manufacturers have started combining primer and latex together for faster user application.

These are difficult to use because the thinning process changes the characteristics of the paint.

Different paint types have their own unique pricing structures as well. Acrylic paints tend to be the cheapest, while lacquer and enamel tend to be on the upper end of the pricing scale.

Paint for a Spray Gun: Our Reviews of the Best Paint Brands

Best Interior Paint

Rustoleum 

Editor and Consumer Choice for Best Paint for Walls

This ultra-cover premium latex paint is perfect for indoor and outdoor projects. The durability is excellent, even on a single coat. It works on metal, wood, masonry, and even unglazed ceramic.  It’s rated as the best paint for interior walls, hands down.

More than a dozen colors are available to complete the perfect look as well. It is a water-based acrylic formula, so drying times are fast and spraying capabilities are consistently good.

If you’re looking for a paint option that can give you a fresh look for a fair price, you’ll want to pick up a can or two of this stuff for your next project.

Click here to find the best price on Amazon

Valspar Latex Enamel Paint

So is Valspar good paint?  Well, this latex enamel paint dries to a nice glossy finish that is surprisingly tough. It works well for wood and metal, in addition to your interior walls if you wish.

Can size availability ranges from a half-pint to a full gallon. 12 different color options are also available. As an added bonus, spills with this paint are super easy to clean up.

All you need is soap and water and the mess will become history. It does an excellent job of covering up blemishes while providing a nice shine to almost any project.

Click here to find the best price on Amazon.

Old Village

This acrylic latex paint is mixed in 25 different colors with a water base, giving you plenty of options for your finishing work. It is a paint option that is better for trim work and carpentry than it is for walls.

When it dries, the satin sheen that is produced helps to replicate a number of different historic finishes. It is a way to give your home an updated look that is still timeless, especially when you’ve got a top-quality paint sprayer helping you out.

Sizing is in 1-pint options only, so take that into consideration as you price out your paint options.

Click here to find the best price on Amazon.

Majic Paint Reviews

If you have an extensive exterior project that needs to be completed, then this is the paint for you. Available in 1-gallon and 5-gallon sizes, there are three color choices available.

The paint dries outside in 30 minutes if the temperature and moisture requirements are met. That means fewer bugs and debris in your paint, allowing for a flawless look.

The paint is intended for barns and fences, though virtually any exterior surface is compatible. It will cover about 250 square feet per gallon.

Click here to find the best price on Amazon.

Kilz

This porch and patio paint option gives you a better overall protection level for your exterior surfaces. It is a low-luster enamel paint, coating your wood or concrete porch or patio to prevent scuffing, cracking, or peeling.

It can also be applied indoors to certain floors or wall surfaces with its acrylic latex composition. It can be applied to any previously painted or primed surfaces and is completely compatible with airless sprayers that meet certain specifications.

If you need tough paint, this is what you’ll want.

Click here to find the best price on Amazon.

The best paint for spray guns will help you be able to quickly finish your projects without compromising your finish. Pick up your preferred paint today, then get to work tomorrow.