A Quick Guide To Paint Thinners: When, Where, and How

Paint thinners are used to dilute paint in order to make it easier to apply, especially when used with spraying equipment. As cleaners they also do an excellent job removing grease, oil, and other stains from different surfaces. All paint thinners contain solvents and must be handled with care and disposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner.

How To Choose The Best Paint Thinner For Your Project

Choosing the best paint thinner depends on the type of paint you use and your chosen application method. The easiest way to go is to purchase a thinner of the same brand as the paint. When using a spray gun check that the thinner is compatible with your equipment before use. If you need a thinner for cleaning purposes, choose one depending on your budget. The cheapest thinners can do an excellent cleaning job. However, they are likely to be volatile and have an unpleasant odour. Key factors to consider when choosing the paint thinner are:

• Brand
• Cost
• Flammability
• Volatility
• Odour

6 Tips For Using Paint Thinners

It’s important to practice care and caution when using paint thinners. Here are a few tips that can help you avoid unexpected problems. 1. Close the can - The majority of thinners evaporate quickly and release vapours into the air. Always keep the can closed when not in use. 2. Wear mask and gloves - Thinners are solvents and may cause respiratory problems and skin rashes. Always wear a facemask and gloves when handling them. 3. Keep away from fire - The majority of thinners are highly flammable. Make sure you don’t use them near open fire sources. 4. Use paint stored at room temperatures - A thinner should only be mixed with paint which was stored at room temperature. 5. Mix slowly - Mix the thinner and the paint slowly in order to achieve proper uniformity. 6. Use a wooden stick - A wooden stick is an excellent tool for mixing paint and thinner.

How Much Thinner Should I Use?

The paint manufacturer will recommend the amount of thinner to be used with paint. The paint to thinner ratio won’t usually exceed 4 to 1. Even when you know the exact ratio, you should mix the thinner in slowly to monitor the results. You might need slightly less or more thinner than recommended. At TA Paints, we offer a wide selection of thinners for paint types. Call us today to get a consultation and free delivery on orders over £200.

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