Painting — FAQ
What's better for exterior painting: airless or HVLP?
Airless dominates exteriors. HVLP lacks the pressure to push thick latex into siding grooves and requires thinning, which reduces durability. Airless sprays unthinned paint at 2800+ PSI for proper film build and weather resistance.
How much paint does an airless sprayer save versus rolling?
Airless uses 15-20% more paint due to overspray, but applies it 4x faster. The real savings come from labor—spraying a two-story house takes 6 hours versus 3 days rolling. Use masking and wind shields to minimize waste.
Can I spray exterior latex paint without thinning?
Yes, if your sprayer reaches 2800-3000 PSI. All models we tested sprayed unthinned premium exterior latex successfully. Thinning compromises hide and durability. Check your tip size—0.015" to 0.019" handles most exterior paints.
What's the minimum hose length for two-story houses?
50 feet reaches most second-story eaves from ground level. We recommend 75-100 feet for safety and efficiency. The Graco X7 supports 100-foot hoses without pressure drop, letting you circle the house without moving the unit.
How long do airless sprayers last with proper maintenance?
Commercial-grade models like the Graco X7 last 5-10 years spraying 20+ gallons annually. Budget models typically last 2-3 years with heavy use. Stainless steel pumps outlast aluminum. Clean thoroughly after each use and store with Pump Armor fluid.
Are cart models worth it for one-time house painting?
Yes. Cart models save your back and move easily across lawns and driveways. They hold 5-gallon buckets securely and support longer hoses. For a single house project, rent one for $75/day. For multiple projects, buying pays for itself after two uses.
