These powerful solvents break down oil-based paints, primers, and stains, making it easier to strip paint off of a surface or clean painting tools. However, paint thinner can also be used to thin the paint by reducing the viscosity of the product for the purpose of filling a paint sprayer or achieving a different finish on a painting project.
Safety Considerations
Most paint thinner products contain powerful chemicals that can be hazardous to the user’s nose, mouth, throat, lungs, and eyes. Paint thinner is also typically corrosive and harmful to your skin, so it’s important to always work in a well-ventilated space with the appropriate safety equipment. This should include breathing protection, gloves, a long-sleeve shirt, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and safety goggles with a rubber seal to prevent eye irritation.
How to Use Paint Thinner to Clean Painting Tools
How to Use Paint Thinner to Strip Paint
How to Use Paint Thinner to Thin Paint
Storing Paint Thinner
After using the paint thinner, the container should be sealed and stored in a cool, dry location. Refer to the manufacturer’s directions for the ideal storage temperature and consider keeping the paint thinner in a basement workshop, garage, or shed as long as the temperatures inside the storage area do not become too hot during the summer months. Clean the brush and roller with warm, soapy water to remove the paint thinner residue, then rinse and dry the painting tools. Combine a small amount of paint and paint thinner to create a test batch. Use four parts paint and one part paint thinner to start and see if this ratio creates the ideal paint viscosity. If necessary, add or reduce the amount of paint thinner until you get the right mix. Once you have the correct ratio, you can mix up a larger amount of paint. Also, make sure to use a suitable container for mixing that won’t be damaged by the corrosive properties of the paint thinner. High temperatures can cause the paint thinner to evaporate and put the container at risk of exploding or even catching fire, as paint thinner is typically a flammable substance.
