Refinishing furniture can breathe new life into old pieces, but brush strokes can sometimes ruin the smooth finish you’re aiming for. That’s where an airless sprayer comes in handy. These tools provide an even coat of paint or stain, giving your furniture a professional, factory-like finish. But with so many options on the market, finding the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. I’ve tested a few, and here’s my take on the best airless sprayers for furniture projects.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Graco Ultra Cordless Airless Handheld Paint Sprayer: Best overall for small to medium furniture projects.
- Wagner Spraytech 0518080 Control Pro 130 Power Tank Paint Sprayer: Best for larger furniture sets and achieving a fine finish.
- Titan ControlMax 1700 Pro High Efficiency Airless Paint Sprayer: Best for handling thicker materials like milk paint and chalk paint.
- Graco Magnum 257020 Project Painter Plus Paint Sprayer: Best for DIYers tackling multiple furniture projects and home improvements.
- TCP Global Professional Grade HVLP Spray Gun Set: Best for those looking for maximum control and precision with various finishes.
Top 5 Best Airless Sprayer For Furniture
1. Graco Ultra Cordless Airless Handheld Paint Sprayer
The Graco Ultra Cordless is perfect for those smaller furniture projects where you want convenience and portability. It’s battery-powered, so you don’t have to drag around cords or hoses. This sprayer uses Graco’s Triax Triple Piston Pump to deliver consistent pressure for a flawless finish on chairs, small tables, and trim.
Pros:
- ✅ Cordless design offers excellent maneuverability.
- ✅ Triax pump ensures consistent spray pressure.
- ✅ Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
- ❌ Battery life might be limiting for larger projects.
- ❌ Smaller paint capacity compared to tank models.
- ❌ Higher price point than corded options.
Verdict: This is a great choice if you prioritize portability and ease of use for smaller furniture pieces. If you’re doing a whole dining set, you may want something with a bigger capacity.
2. Wagner Spraytech 0518080 Control Pro 130 Power Tank Paint Sprayer
The Wagner Control Pro 130 is a step up in terms of power and capacity. It features HEA (High Efficiency Airless) technology, which reduces overspray by up to 55% compared to traditional airless sprayers. This is a tank model, meaning you pour the paint directly into the tank, and it’s ideal for bigger furniture like dressers and cabinets where a consistent, even finish is crucial. I used this on some kitchen cabinets and the finish was fantastic.
Pros:
- ✅ HEA technology minimizes overspray.
- ✅ Large tank capacity for fewer refills.
- ✅ Delivers a very fine finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit bulky to move around.
- ❌ Requires more effort to clean than handheld models.
- ❌ Some users report occasional clogging issues.
Verdict: The Wagner Control Pro 130 is a solid choice for larger furniture projects where reducing overspray and achieving a professional finish are top priorities.
3. Titan ControlMax 1700 Pro High Efficiency Airless Paint Sprayer
The Titan ControlMax 1700 Pro is designed to handle thicker materials, making it a great option if you’re working with milk paint, chalk paint, or even thicker primers. It also uses a High Efficiency Airless (HEA) system, similar to the Wagner, reducing overspray and providing a softer, more controllable spray. The inline filter helps prevent tip clogs, which is a huge plus when working with thicker paints.
Pros:
- ✅ Handles thicker paints and primers with ease.
- ✅ HEA technology reduces overspray.
- ✅ Inline filter minimizes tip clogs.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit noisy during operation.
- ❌ Requires thorough cleaning to prevent clogging.
- ❌ The hose could be longer for better reach.
Verdict: If you frequently use thicker paints or primers on your furniture projects, the Titan ControlMax 1700 Pro is a reliable and efficient option.
4. Graco Magnum 257020 Project Painter Plus Paint Sprayer
The Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus is designed for DIYers who tackle a variety of projects, from furniture refinishing to painting walls. It connects directly to a paint can, eliminating the need for a separate tank. It’s a good all-around sprayer that can handle multiple furniture sets or larger home improvement tasks. I’ve used this on fences as well as furniture, and it’s a workhorse.
Pros:
- ✅ Direct paint can connection for easy setup.
- ✅ Adjustable pressure control for different materials.
- ✅ Relatively easy to clean.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit heavy to hold for extended periods.
- ❌ Overspray can be an issue if not properly adjusted.
- ❌ May struggle with very thick paints without thinning.
Verdict: This sprayer is a great value for DIYers who want a versatile tool for furniture refinishing and other home improvement projects.
5. TCP Global Professional Grade HVLP Spray Gun Set
The TCP Global HVLP Spray Gun Set is a different approach compared to the airless sprayers above. HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray guns offer more control over the spray pattern and material flow, making them ideal for achieving a flawless finish with various types of paints and stains. This set includes multiple nozzles for different applications, giving you maximum versatility.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent control over spray pattern and material flow.
- ✅ Multiple nozzles for different applications.
- ✅ Produces a very fine and smooth finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires an air compressor (sold separately).
- ❌ Steeper learning curve compared to airless sprayers.
- ❌ Cleaning can be more time-consuming.
Verdict: If you’re looking for maximum control and precision and already have an air compressor, the TCP Global HVLP Spray Gun Set is an excellent choice for achieving professional-quality furniture finishes.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right airless sprayer for furniture depends on several factors. Here’s what you should consider:
- Project Size: For small projects like chairs or side tables, a handheld cordless sprayer might be sufficient. For larger pieces like dressers or dining tables, a tank-based sprayer with more capacity is recommended.
- Paint Type: If you’re using thicker paints like milk paint or chalk paint, make sure the sprayer is designed to handle those materials. Some sprayers have inline filters to prevent clogging.
- Overspray: Look for sprayers with HEA (High Efficiency Airless) technology to minimize overspray, especially if you’re working in a confined space.
- Ease of Cleaning: Cleaning an airless sprayer can be time-consuming, so choose a model that’s relatively easy to disassemble and clean. Proper cleaning is essential to prevent clogs and extend the life of the sprayer.
- Corded vs. Cordless: Cordless sprayers offer greater maneuverability, but battery life can be a limiting factor. Corded sprayers provide consistent power but require you to work near an outlet.
- HVLP vs. Airless: HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray guns offer more control and are great for fine finishes, but they require an air compressor. Airless sprayers are more powerful and can handle thicker materials, but they might produce more overspray.
- Budget: Airless sprayers range in price from a couple hundred dollars to several hundred. Determine your budget and choose a sprayer that offers the best value for your needs.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any type of paint in an airless sprayer?
A: Not all paints are suitable for airless sprayers. Check the sprayer’s manual for recommended paint types and thinning instructions. Some thicker paints may require thinning to prevent clogging.
Q: How do I prevent overspray when using an airless sprayer?
A: Use a sprayer with HEA (High Efficiency Airless) technology, adjust the pressure settings, and maintain a consistent distance from the surface. Also, use proper masking techniques to protect surrounding areas.
Q: How often should I clean my airless sprayer?
A: Clean your airless sprayer immediately after each use to prevent paint from drying and clogging the nozzle and internal components. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning procedures.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when using an airless sprayer?
A: Always wear safety glasses, a respirator, and gloves when using an airless sprayer. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid spraying near open flames or sparks.
Q: Can I spray stain with an airless sprayer?
A: Yes, you can spray stain with an airless sprayer. Use a fine-finish tip and adjust the pressure settings to achieve a consistent and even coat. Be sure to back-brush or wipe the stain immediately after spraying to ensure proper penetration and prevent runs.
Conclusion
Choosing the best airless sprayer for furniture depends on the types of projects you’re planning to tackle. Whether you need a portable cordless option, a sprayer that can handle thick paints, or a system that offers maximum control, there’s a sprayer on this list that will meet your needs. By considering your project size, paint type, and budget, you can find the perfect tool to achieve professional-quality furniture finishes.
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