Frequently Asked Questions

An airless paint sprayer is a machine that pumps paint at very high pressure through a precision-engineered nozzle, turning liquid paint into a fine spray without the need for compressed air. This produces a smooth, even coating that cannot be matched by traditional brushes or rollers. Airless sprayers are widely used in professional painting and decorating, renovations, and property maintenance because they save time, reduce labour, and deliver a consistent, high-quality finish.

With an airless sprayer, you can cover large wall and ceiling areas in hours instead of days. For example, a living room that might take a full day with rollers can often be completed in two hours with a sprayer. This speed advantage becomes even greater on exteriors, fences, and multi-room projects. Spraying is not just faster—it reduces fatigue and ensures better surface coverage, especially on textured or uneven surfaces.

Airless sprayers are ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects, including interior walls, ceilings, exteriors, garden fences, garage doors, sheds, and trims. They are also excellent for rental properties and renovation projects where speed and a professional finish are critical. Whether you are a homeowner refreshing a single room or a small contractor handling multiple projects, an airless sprayer gives you the efficiency and quality needed to achieve outstanding results.

Most standard water-based paints, acrylics, emulsions, primers, and certain solvent-based coatings can be sprayed with an airless machine. Thicker coatings such as textured paints or waterproofing compounds are generally not recommended unless specifically designed for spray application. Always check the paint manufacturer’s guidance and our tip-sizing chart to ensure compatibility.

Not always. Many modern airless sprayers are powerful enough to spray paints directly from the container. However, some thicker paints may require slight thinning to achieve the correct flow and spray pattern. Following the paint manufacturer’s recommendations is key, and we provide guidance on tip size and pressure settings to get the best performance for your chosen coating.

Spray tips are sized according to the fan width and the orifice opening. The correct choice depends on the viscosity of the paint and the surface you are spraying. For example, smaller tips are used for doors, trims, and fine work, while larger tips suit walls and ceilings. Choosing the right tip ensures optimal coverage, reduces overspray, and extends the life of your sprayer. We offer expert advice and supply tip size charts for all common applications.

Overspray is a natural part of any airless spraying process, but it can be controlled with correct technique, tip selection, and masking. Using the right pressure settings, holding the gun at the correct distance, and working in steady passes reduces wasted paint. With basic preparation—covering floors, masking windows, and protecting fixtures—you can achieve fast, clean results without unnecessary mess.

Cleaning your sprayer properly after each use is essential for performance and longevity. Water-based paints should be flushed out with clean water, while solvent-based coatings require mineral spirits or suitable cleaning solutions. Once flushed, the sprayer should be rinsed with storage fluid to prevent internal corrosion and sticking valves. With the right cleaning routine, your sprayer will remain reliable for years of service.

Airless sprayers use reversible tips that make clearing blockages quick and easy. Simply rotate the tip, spray briefly to expel the blockage, then return the tip to its spraying position. Proper cleaning and using filters reduce the chance of clogging. Having a spare tip on hand also ensures your project continues without interruption.

Handheld sprayers are small, portable units best suited for furniture, touch-ups, or very small projects. Wheel-mounted sprayers, like the Spra-Co range, are designed for larger surfaces and continuous operation. They deliver higher flow rates, support longer hoses, and are built for both homeowners tackling whole-house projects and contractors needing reliable daily performance.

All Spra-Co sprayers are designed for easy transport. The SPA-495 and SPA-695 are compact and lightweight enough to carry, while the SPA-695 Plus and SPA-995RC are mounted on rolling chassis for maximum mobility. This makes it simple to move between rooms, floors, or even job sites, reducing downtime and effort.

Yes. Unlike many import-only brands, Spra-Co provides full aftersales support in South Africa. We stock essential spares such as spray tips, guards, filters, hoses, and guns, as well as offering servicing for pumps, seals, and pressure systems. Owning a Spra-Co sprayer means you are never left without local support or replacement parts.

Airless spraying is safe when correct precautions are followed. Always wear protective clothing, safety goggles, and a respirator when working indoors. Ensure proper ventilation and never spray directly at skin, as the pressure is high enough to inject paint beneath the surface. With basic preparation and safety awareness, spraying is efficient, safe, and highly effective.