Aerosol Paint Application Tips
Storage
Aerosols should be stored in a cool dry place. Prolonged elevated temperatures could reduce shelf life. In addition, prolonged exposure to high humidity could corrode the container walls causing the can to leak.
Application
Allow can to warm to room temperature (70° - 75°F is an ideal application temperature). Parts to be painted should also be at a similar temperature for optimum performance.
Application at higher temperatures may result in “orange peel” due to rapid solvent evaporation. Spraying with a cool can and/or applying to a cool part could result in running and sagging due to slow evaporation of solvents from the paint film.
For best results apply 2 to 3 light passes of spray mist to the surface and allow approximately 30 seconds for some of the solvents to leave the film. This will allow you to apply a heavier finished coat that should resist runs and sags.
Additional coats should be applied only if needed and while the film is still tacky, but not wet. Again, this method will help to avoid runs and sags.
It is always advisable to develop your own spray technique on a scrap part first.
If recoating is required after the film has dried it is important to wait at least 72 hours with acrylic enamels. Lacquers can be recoated at any time.
Adhesion
In order for paint to adhere, the substrate must be cleaned with a suitable detergent or solvent cleaner that will not leave a residue.
Spray paint can be applied to a variety of substrates. Hard smooth surfaces may benefit from sanding with fine grit sandpaper (400 – 600 grit) or any other form of fine abrasive. Again, testing on a scrap part first is recommended.
Color Match Concerns
Be sure that the can has been thoroughly and vigorously shaken. Certain pigment combinations tend to settle more aggressively and require more agitation.
If color does not match, the can may have exceeded its shelf life. Look for a date code on bottom of can and call manufacturer.
Compare color of production paint to the standard. A new batch of production paint may be off color resulting in touch-up mismatch.
Blushing
Blushing is a condition that is more common with lacquer coatings and can occur when dew point and humidity are elevated. Blushing is a milky haze in the dried paint film that is a result of moisture being trapped.
Recoating when humidity and dew point are low is the best fix for the problem.
Faulty or Non-Spraying Aerosol
If spray mist slows or stops, twist spray head from side to side without removing from valve. This will often times correct the problem. Repeat as necessary.
If spray stops completely, contact the manufacturer for new spray tips if the can has not exceeded its shelf life. Check the manufactured date on the bottom of the can to determine its age.