Have you ever seen like you touched a spray-painted surface and got paint on your hand? It is obviously a normal case when you use spray paint in a painting project.
But not all the colors will rub off as there are certain factors. Do you know how to keep spray paint from rubbing off?
You can follow several instructions to prevent spray paint from rubbing off: Try to use water-based acrylic or latex paints with finer spray tips. Pick aerosol spray cans having more propellants where the temperature goes up and down frequently. Always store the spray can at room temperature to prevent lacquer coating inside it. Apply primer alongside the spray paint for better adhesion.
As I do frequent spray painting and have adequate knowledge and interests, I am here to share a hand. Once you read this article fully, I believe there won’t be any paint rubbing off. I will discuss these questions with their solutions for in-depth ideas:
- What is the definition of spray paint?
- On what surfaces can you use spray paint?
- What are the reasons for spray paint rubbing off?
- How can you fix spray paint from rubbing off?
Table of Contents
What is the Definition of Spray Paint?
Spray paints are a distinct type of paint you can spray on different surfaces. They can add attractive color and extraordinaire personality. You can find the spray paints in an aerosol container, just like the mosquito killers. Air pressure inside the can remains too high so that you can spray on point hassle-free.
These paints have some other names like lacquer, enamel, etc. Each painting has at least these four ingredients: pigments, binders, solvents, and additives. There should be 15-20cm distance between the sprayer and target when you apply the paint.
Some common versions of spray paints are popular, like latex acrylic, nitrocellulose lacquers, and bitumen. Latex and acrylic paints are water-based. But acrylic paint has chemical ingredients too. They are more elastic than latex paint. On the other hand, latex paints are affordable than acrylic paints.
The spray tip of the aerosol is around 80-120 mesh. Some brands or models have more ranges like up to 220 mesh for proper detailing. This is an important fact connected with spray paint rubbing off.
On What Surfaces You Can Use Spray Paint?
Spray paints offer an array of options as applicable. You can use them for any DIY project, like painting something on canvas. Also, you can use them to paint on fabric, wood, plastic, cardboard, and paper. The color of paint depends on where you use it, like it may appear different in exterior applications for the natural sunlight.
The most common trait of these paints is they are not preferable for a sturdy or permanent result. It will rub off to something you love if you place it close to the painted surface. Some other applications of spray paint are making wall murals, painting graffiti.
What are the Reasons for Spray Paint Rubbing off?
There are a couple of reasons why your spray paint may rub off. The first reason is the nozzle’s grit size. Smaller grit size causes particles to break up more. Also, it causes the paint to become airborne during spraying. A larger grit size helps to get a more even finish and enables less chance of creating “paint mist”.
Applying lacquer instead of latex or acrylic paints may also cause rubbing off. Lacquer has possibly less elasticity than these paints. A change of weather may make paint peeling off the surface. Additionally, applying less quality, cheaper paint that may contain too many fillers.
When you don’t apply the right coating, this would be another reason. Some paints may require 2-3 coats and obvious priming for a long-lasting result. Another cause of spray paint peel off is painting without correct prep work. Applying spray paints on loose things such as flakes, rusts may reduce the adhesion of paint.
How Can You Fix Spray Paint from Rubbing off? – 12 Steps
Follow these instructions to improve and secure the adhesion of the spray paint to the surface:
- Always prefer water-based paints as final or base paint. Oil-based paint can go over water-based. Use latex or acrylic paint instead of lacquers.
- Apply on a small area first and wait till it dry. Then, touch the painted area and see if it is peeling off. If it goes off, change the paint.
- Clean the area properly before you apply the spray paint. Remove dirt, rust, flakes, etc., first and repair any dent on the surface.
- Wait for 24-48 hours for full dry of the applied paints. It secures the stickiness of the paint to the surface.
- Choose a day when the weather is paint-friendly. Excessive heat or cold may not be right time for using spray paints.
- If the temperature fluctuates, try to use paints with extra propellants (type F) to limit the spray amount.
- Make sure the thickness of the paint is sufficient. Using little or thin paint does not work well.
- Do not try to mend the paint when you see it. Wait for drying the area; otherwise, the paint will be rubbing off.
- Add or use nozzles with finer spray tips (like 220 mesh) for a finer finish. It helps to stick the paint well.
- Applying a primer may protect the spray paint better while preventing any cracks or water absorption.
- Do not store the spray cans in a cold box (refrigerator). Keeping in such conditions may cause lacquer coatings inside the aerosol. It may cause clumpy or grainy type results.
- I suggest you put on hand gloves when you are on a big spray-painting project. Also, arrange proper ventilation for the projects.
Read More: Can You Spray Paint Light Bulbs?
Final Words
No need to worry about keeping spray paint from rubbing off. Follow the above instructions to increase the adhesion of the paints.
Primarily, arranging a suitable place and time is the first important thing to increase the lifespan of spray paint. Also, choosing the right grit size of the nozzle and latex or acrylic paints are very positive ways to fulfill the aim. Apply primer first, and then start using the spray paint for better results. I suggest you do not hurry when you are painting; instead, let it dry well.