Avoiding Overspray in Commercial Jobs: Tricks That Actually Work

Overspray can be a challenge on any commercial job, whether working with paint or coating materials. Overspray can be a costly mistake if property is damaged beyond repair. Overspray can also clog the air intake of your sprayer's engine. Prevention is the most important part of overspray, ensuring that overspray does not become an issue. In this article, we share the best steps to prevent overspray on a commercial job.

As a general rule, turning the pressure up higher than needed to atomize the paint will cause premature tip wear and additional overspray - so be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for pressure ratings.

Cover containment systems

Cover containment systems help to confine material, preventing them from spreading to undesired areas and surfaces. The type of overspray containment system required depends on the particulate size of material. Plastic sheeting is a common product used to prevent overspray for paint and coatings. 

Fan width adjustment

When working in a narrow spray area with the potential of overspray or an outdoor structure that could be impacted by wind, adding another layer of protection is important when prepping your job site. In addition to a covered containment system, adjusting the fan width of your sprayer or changing the width of your spray tip can help to refine the area your material is spraying.

Masking solutions for indoor and outdoor spaces

When it comes to masking materials beyond that of conventional paint tapes and plastics, which are a must, using polypropylene edge boards are an effective way to contain overspray and allow full thickness to be applied to the very edge. The benefit is the material, once cured, will simply peel off for repeated use. Another benefit is these panels can be purchased in various thicknesses and sizes ranging up to 5’x10’ and simple notches can be cut for handles.

Get 2.0 mil plastic sheeting

Get 1.5 mil plastic sheeting

Pro Tips for Masking with Sprayers

1. 1. Overlap coverage zones to avoid gaps where overspray could sneak in.
   2. Use back-taping (taping in reverse then folding over) to create a clean paint line where needed.
   3. For windy outdoor conditions, consider weighted drop cloths or extra tape tabs to secure masking film.
   4. Remove masking materials at the right time—often just after paint dries to the touch, to avoid tearing or pulling up the coating.

Give our sales team a call to help with your full service solution for commercial paint and coating equipment 330-720-2966.