Tips on Spraying Latex Paint with HVLP
(Updated September 29, 2023 - First published in November, 2019.)
Spraying Latex Paint with a Fuji HVLP Spray System
Here are some simple rules for using latex paint with an HVLP sprayer. Yes, this can be done, and it can save time compared with using a paint roller or a cheap hardware store paint sprayer.
Choose the best spray system you can afford
If your budget permits only a slower, less powerful Fuji Spray system, can you still spray latex paint? Yes. Next best choice would be a slower 3-stage system — the Mini-Mite 3 or quieter Q PLATINUM 3. You can even spray latex with the 2-stage Hobby-PRO system, which comes standard with the 1.8mm air cap size that is the best air cap for spraying large areas with latex.
One of my customers, S. Baer, recently stepped up from the 2-stage Fuji Hobby-PRO system to a Mini-Mite 4 system especially for getting a smoother finish when spraying latex. Using the Hobby-PRO, the latex finish was acceptable (see the photo below) — but showed a subtle orange-peel texture.
Latex paint sprayed on custom built cabinets using the Fuji Spray 2250 Hobby-PRO 2 system (Image used by permission of customer, S. Baer)
Check out my article on How to Choose an HVLP System for a full review of the pros and cons of each Fuji Spray system. And feel free to call or text me to discuss the spray projects you have in mind. I will help you find the best system for your specific needs and budget.
Choose Finish Grade Latex Paint and adapt it for spraying
One of the popular thinners for latex paint
To spray latex paints successfully, some rules must be adhered to. The latex should be “finish-quality” (the best grade). Especially for warm weather situations, a Latex Additive such as Floetrol can be used to slow drying time. (Floetrol is an additive, not a thinner.) The Latex will also have to be thinned with water — usually 20% is enough.
Choose the correct air cap for thicker finishes
The ideal tip for spraying latex depends on what you’re spraying.
1.3mm - for the finest latex finish on louver doors, trim, and cabinets.
1.8mm - for walls and other large surfaces (The Fuji Spray 7003 M-model gun comes with this size installed, and comes with the Hobby-Pro 2-stage system.)
Note that you can buy a 1.8mm air cap for any Fuji Spray gun, and many of my money-saving packages include a second air cap of your choice.
More on Air Caps;
How to Choose Air Caps
Shop for Fuji Spray Air Caps
Turn the fluid adjusting screw on the spray gun for finer spray
When spraying Latex, please turn the fluid adjusting screw to limit the paint to a finer spray. This will increase the ratio of air to paint and result in better atomization and a beautiful finish. (Factually speaking, it doesn't increase the ratio of air to paint but does the opposite — it allows the air atomizing power to work on less paint thereby improving the quality of atomization).
More Tips From Fuji Spray on Spraying Latex
6-foot Fuji 2049F whip hose
1) Thin the paint upwards of 20% with water.
2) Use additives if necessary.
3) Add the 6-ft whip hose to reduce air temperature through the gun.
4) Hold the gun no more than 8″ (20cm) away.
5) Apply a full, wet coat.
Spraying A House - Video
Spraying a house with a Fuji Spray T75G gravity gun and a Fuji Spray Mini Mite 5 turbine.
Questions about spraying latex? Call or text me, or email. Email is especially useful if you want to send photos of your project.
Roger Phelps.