The Ultimate Paint Thinning Guide for House Paint

Thinning paint is sometimes a necessary skill to have and required depending on your application and equipment. We have compiled a guide on ratios, however you should add your thinning solution gradually as your paint will vary in quality, age and thickness direct from the can.

CAUTION: GO SLOWLY, YOU CAN'T REMOVE THE THINNING LIQUID ONCE YOU HAVE ADDED IT!.

Here are the various types of paints commonly used for house painting, including their characteristics, uses, and a guide on thinning each type of paint:

Latex Paint (Acrylic Paint)

Characteristics: Water-based, easy to clean, quick drying, and low odor.
Uses: Suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Add water gradually, up to 10% of the paint volume, and stir thoroughly.
- For spray guns: Thin with water up to 20%, depending on the spray gun's manufacturer's recommendations. Test spray on a piece of cardboard to check the consistency.

Oil-Based Paint (Alkyd Paint)

Characteristics: Durable, provides a smooth finish, and is resistant to wear and tear.
Uses: Ideal for trim, doors, and high-traffic areas.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Add mineral spirits or paint thinner, up to 10% of the paint volume, and mix well.
- For spray guns: Thin with mineral spirits or paint thinner up to 20%, depending on the spray gun's manufacturer's recommendations. Test spray to ensure proper consistency.

Enamel Paint

Characteristics: Hard, glossy finish that is resistant to stains and scratches.
Uses: Often used on kitchen cabinets, furniture, and trim.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Use the specific thinner recommended by the paint manufacturer, usually mineral spirits or a dedicated enamel thinner, up to 10% of the paint volume.
- For spray guns: Thin with the recommended enamel thinner, up to 20%, and test spray for the correct consistency.

Primer

Characteristics: Used to prepare surfaces before painting, enhances paint adhesion, and provides a uniform surface.
Uses: Essential for new surfaces or surfaces with stains or strong colors.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Follow the manufacturer's instructions, typically adding water (for latex primers) or mineral spirits (for oil-based primers) up to 10%.
- For spray guns: Thin according to the manufacturer's guidelines, usually up to 20% with the appropriate thinner. Test spray to ensure proper flow.

Flat or Matte Paint

Characteristics: Non-reflective finish, hides imperfections well.
Uses: Best for ceilings and low-traffic areas like bedrooms and living rooms.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Thin with water (for latex) or mineral spirits (for oil-based) up to 10%.
- For spray guns: Thin with the appropriate thinner up to 20%. Test spray for proper application.

Eggshell Paint

Characteristics: Slight sheen, more durable than flat paint, easy to clean.
Uses: Suitable for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Add water (for latex) or mineral spirits (for oil-based) up to 10%.
- For spray guns: Thin with the appropriate thinner up to 20%. Test spray for consistency.

Satin Paint

Characteristics: Smooth finish with a soft sheen, durable and easy to clean.
Uses: Great for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Thin with water (for latex) or mineral spirits (for oil-based) up to 10%.
- For spray guns: Thin with the appropriate thinner up to 20%. Test spray for proper flow.

Semi-Gloss Paint

Characteristics: Reflective finish, highly durable, and easy to clean.
Uses: Ideal for trim, doors, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Thin with water (for latex) or mineral spirits (for oil-based) up to 10%.
- For spray guns: Thin with the appropriate thinner up to 20%. Test spray for consistency.

Gloss Paint

Characteristics: High reflective finish, very durable and easy to clean.
Uses: Used for trim, cabinets, and doors.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Thin with water (for latex) or mineral spirits (for oil-based) up to 10%.
- For spray guns: Thin with the appropriate thinner up to 20%. Test spray for proper application.

Textured Paint

Characteristics: Creates a textured surface, hides imperfections.
Uses: Often used for walls and ceilings to create decorative finishes.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Generally not thinned, but follow the manufacturer's instructions if needed.
- For spray guns: Not typically used with spray guns, but if necessary, thin according to manufacturer’s guidelines.

Chalk Paint & Milk Paint

Characteristics: Matte finish, can be distressed for a vintage look.
Uses: Popular for furniture and decorative projects.
Thinning Guide:
- For brush or roller: Thin with water up to 10% if necessary for smoother application.
- For spray guns: Thin with water up to 20% and test spray for consistency.