Best Polyurethane Sprayer — Buyer’s Guide, How-To, Reviews, and Comparisons

A premier polyurethane sprayer operates slowly enough to give you complete control, yet rapidly enough to finely atomize the coating, leaving a satin or glossy finish behind. The ideal unit should feature a polyurethane-compatible fluid nozzle, tailorable output, and a variety of fan patterns for both large and small projects.

Polyurethane Paint Sprayers Comparison Table

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
  • Project size: Medium to large
  • Technology: HVLP
  • Nozzle: iSpray
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • 1.5-quart paint cup.
  • Ergonomic handle.
  • Competitive price point.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon Wagner Control Painter Review Wagner Control Painter Review
  • Project size: Small to medium
  • Technology: Airless
  • Nozzle: 514
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • FlexLiner bag system.
  • Cordless.
  • Two long-lasting DeWalt cells and a charger.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon Graco Ultra 17M363 Review Graco Ultra 17M363 Review
  • Project size: Small to medium
  • Technology: HVLP
  • Nozzle: Control Finish
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • Removable air filter.
  • Two different size coating cups.
  • Viscosity cup.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Check Price at Amazon Control Double Duty Review Control Double Duty Review
  • Project size: Medium to large
  • Technology: HVLP
  • Nozzle: 1.3 mm
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • Non-bleed spray gun.
  • 0.42-quart, gravity feed paint cup.
  • 25-foot flexible hose.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Check Price at Amazon Fuji 2203G Review Fuji 2203G Review
  • Project size: Medium to large
  • Technology: HVLP
  • Nozzle: iSpray
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • Easy to clean.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Ergonomic handle.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Check Price at Amazon Wagner Flexio 570 Review Wagner Flexio 570 Review
  • Project size: Small to medium
  • Technology: HVLP
  • Nozzle: Control Finish
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • Three spray patterns.
  • Lock-N-Go system.
  • 0.875-quart paint cup.

Product Rating: 4.3/5

Check Price at Amazon Wagner Opti Stain Plus Review Wagner Opti Stain Plus Review
  • Project size: Small to medium
  • Technology: HVLP
  • Nozzle: 1.3 mm
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • 25-foot hose.
  • 1-quart paint cup.
  • All-metal Pro 8 spray gun.

Product Rating: 4.3/5

Check Price at Amazon Earlex Spray Port 6003 Review Earlex Spray Port 6003 Review
  • Project size: Medium to large
  • Technology: Airless
  • Nozzle: 515 HEA
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • Flexible 50-foot hose.
  • 0.40 gallons per minute output.
  • In-built storage and carry handle.

Product Rating: 4.0/5

Check Price at Amazon Wagner Control Pro 190 Review Wagner Control Pro 190 Review
  • Project size: Small to medium
  • Technology: Airless
  • Nozzle: RAC 515
  • Variable output: Yes

Features

  • Four 42-ounce FlexLiner coating bags.
  • Stainless steel pump.
  • VacuValve system for multi-angle spraying.

Product Rating: 4.0/5

Check Price at Amazon Graco 360 VSP Review Graco 360 VSP Review

A Buying Guide to Polyurethane Spray Guns

A polyurethane sprayer has to incorporate grace with grunt. It must have the ability to go slowly but steadily to achieve that protective, glossy sheen. These magical spray guns can reawaken tired wooden projects with just the pull of a trigger.

Things to look out for in this type of spray gun include:

  • Adjustable volume output.
  • Suitably sized nozzle.
  • Portability.
  • Whether it can handle large or small tasks.

Why Use Polyurethane Coatings?

This magical coating will bring finesse to all wood-based items that you have around your home — both inside and out. It also provides a level of protection from accidental scrapes and knocks, as well as the elements. There are a variety of polys for both interior and exterior use available.

Whether you go for an oil or water-based version depends on which type of finish you desire. If you’re after rich amber tones, an oil-based poly is the best choice. Or maybe you want to seal an item or add a protective coat while retaining the wood’s original color, in which case a water-based coating is best.

Without any impact on the durability, you also have the option of satin, semi-gloss, or gloss coatings. While in essence, they all operate under the same principle, it’s worth bearing in mind that if you decide to go for gloss polyurethane, it is more prone to highlight any imperfection in the wood.

How To Choose the Best Polyurethane Sprayer

Polyurethane is a somewhat finicky substance to spray and it has a reputation for being difficult to use. But if you select the best tool for the job, this is simply not true. To remove some of the dread associated with this coating, let’s go through all the critical features that should be included in the best spray gun for polyurethane.
ease of use

HVLP Technology

A great benefit of spraying polyurethane with HVLP machines is that these not only offer a finely atomized finish when working with oil-based polyurethane, but they also help keep costs down and wastage to a minimum as there’s typically less overspray.

HVLP sprayers also tend to suit smaller tasks and are usually a great deal more portable than their airless cousin.

However, you may find that spraying water based polyurethane with HVLP machines doesn’t quite give the results you were hoping for. That’s because water-based versions simply don’t atomize as well as other coatings, for example, lacquer.

true rms

Airless

As I mentioned above, you’re better off spraying water based polyurethane with an airless sprayer — especially if you’re tackling a big project. Water-based coating is more affected by temperature and tends to increase in viscosity the cooler it gets — a whole 10 percent for every 10-degree drop!

When you decide to start spraying polyurethane with an airless sprayer, make sure that the volume output is variable for the best results.

accuracy

Nozzle Size

Similarly to solid stain, polyurethane is classed as a medium viscosity coating. Therefore, a tip size of between 0.013 and 0.015 inches will usually work best.

If your chosen spray gun maker measures tips in other units (some manufacturers tend to incorporate their own jargon into this already confusing field) check the spray gun’s user guide or the company website for recommendations.

Speed Adjustment Button Icon

Variable Output Settings

The key to a glass-like finish is to go slowly and apply many layers, waiting for each to thoroughly dry in between. If you plan to spray polyurethane with an HVLP sprayer, look out at a two-stage turbine at a minimum.

As airless sprayers operate slightly differently, you want to make sure that there is some level of speed adjustability.

Versatility icon

Sprayer Style

Wood-based projects, where polyurethane is an advantage, can vary greatly from boat decks to indoor tables and everything in between. Hence a sprayer that is easy to move is beneficial.

Polyurethane guns are typically available in a multitude of designs, from compact handheld devices to portable floor-based units. The reach of a handheld spray gun is generally limited by the length of your extension cable. Many sprayers have a separate motor housing with in-built storage, which keeps everything together in one place when you need to transport the unit.

How To Use a Polyurethane Sprayer

Thanks to all the horror stories online, the thought of using a polyurethane sprayer can leave even the most experienced home-improver feeling dread.

To simplify the process, I’ve compiled some helpful info. Below I’ll cover how to use these machines, thin polyurethanes, and cover up old polyurethane finishes with a primer — a skill you might need as wood fashions are prone to change in the blink of an eye!

How To Spray Kitchen Cabinets with Primer: A Step by Step Guide

What You Will Need to Follow This Tutorial

Gather everything together before you start to maximize your uptime.

  • Polyurethane spray gun.
  • Interior or exterior polyurethane coating — depending on your project.
  • Stain (if desired)
  • Suitably sized nozzle.
  • Spray tent.
  • Sandpaper.
  • Floor cloths.
  • Cleaning cloths.
  • Shop vacuum.
  • Water.
  • Coveralls or old clothes.
  • Personal protective gear such as a mask, respirator, goggles, and sprayhood.

Step 1: Preparing Your Furniture and Workspace

  1. Lay down your floor cloth.
  2. Start by preparing your furniture item. You need to remove any undesirable marks and fill in other holes and gaps that you don’t want to appear in the final finish. Once you have finished sanding, wipe it down to remove all the residue.
  3. It is imperative that you apply polyurethane in a dust-free environment since any airborne particles can affect your final finish. A good way to provide this protection is to use a spray tent, which will also act as a barrier and protect the surrounding area.
  4. Put on any personal protective gear that you’re using.
  5. Set up your sprayer following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Now is also a good time to dilute the coating, if required.

For further information on how to do this, see the section below.

Step 2: Start Layering

  1. Check you’ve installed the correctly sized nozzle and adjust the volume output dial. The individual sprayer manual should have a chart showing the optimum settings for polyurethanes. As a general rule, you want the pressure to be enough to leave a thin even layer with each pass. Not so much that paint pools are formed and you end up with an uneven surface.

    Try and practice on a piece of cardboard before you start to ensure that the gun’s settings are correct.

  2. If using a stain, now is the time to apply it. Leave it to dry completely.
  3. Now the fun starts! Make like a Jedi Knight with a lightsaber and start spraying your project — sound effects optional. Keep the sprayer around 10 to 12 inches away from the surface and spray in long continuous sweeps. Try to avoid stopping mid-stroke as this will lead to an uneven pattern, which is tricky to correct later.

    If you are not using a stain, treat this first layer as your basecoat.

  4. Once you have coated your piece entirely, step away from the sprayer and allow it to dry thoroughly. For drying time, refer to the paint manufacturer’s instructions.
  5. After the first coat has dried, sand lightly with 220 grit sandpaper. This is not to remove the previous layer but to create a slightly porous effect so that the next coat adheres properly. Once you’ve sanded your item, use a vacuum to remove the dust.
  6. Repeat step two. Depending on how many coats are recommended, you may have to repeat steps three and four too before you’re done.

Step 3: Finishing Up

  1. Once you have applied your final coat, allow your piece to dry completely before touching it.
  2. Thoroughly wash your sprayer and allow it to dry before storing it.
  3. When your item has dried, move to its final home. Then disassemble the spray tent and tidy up any floor cloths that were used.

How To Thin Polyurethane for a Paint Sprayer

Since polyurethane will not stick to itself, it is a good idea to either stain your piece before applying this coating or use a base layer.

What You Will Need

  • Polyurethane paint.
  • Water (if using water-based poly)
  • Paint thinner (if using the oil-based version).
  • Mixing container.
  • Plastic stir stick.
  • Paint measuring cup.
How To Mix a Base Coat

Mix one part of the paint thinner with two parts polyurethane. If you’re using a water-based poly, use water as the dilution fluid.

How to Prepare Additional Coats

For additional coats after the base layer or stain, measure out your desired quantity of polyurethane, calculate what five percent of this volume is. Then measure out the calculated five percent volume of thinner and mix.

For example:

If you want one quart (32-ounces) total volume, measure 1.5 ounces of thinner and mix with 30 ounces of polyurethane.

How To Prime Polyurethane Wood Finishes

Wood fashions change almost as often as my wife changes her mind, which feels like five times a day! For this very reason, you may want to update your beautiful polyurethane finish to another coating. However, as I have previously mentioned poly coatings don’t play well with others so a little preparation is required first.

What You Will Need

  • Trisodium phosphate solution.
  • Cotton cloth.
  • Sanding block, sanding sponge, or power rotary tool.
  • Lower grit sandpaper.
  • Tack cloth.

Process

  1. Add some trisodium phosphate solution to a cotton cloth until it’s just slightly damp, then use this to remove all the grime, grease, and dirt from your item. You may have to scrub fairly hard to remove any stubborn stains. Allow the wood to dry before step two.
  2. Using the power rotary tool or sanding block, remove enough layers until the glossy finish is no longer apparent and the surface is smooth.
  3. If you need a rougher surface or the poly is particularly thick, you can use lower-grade sandpaper.
  4. Grab the tack cloth and wipe away the sanding residue and dust.

You’re now set to start painting your piece with your preferred medium.

Nine of the Best Polyurethane Sprayers

Ready to start shopping for a polyurethane sprayer? To make the buying process a painless affair, I’ve reviewed nine top-performing machines that handle polyurethanes with ease.
Our Rating: 4.7
The Wagner Control Painter could have been specifically designed as a polyurethane sprayer — it includes all the features you need to obtain that perfect satin or gloss finish. It also has enough grunt to tackle large-scale applications without breaking a sweat.

This handheld HVLP polyurethane spray gun is suitable for dedicated DIYers that want the best results. With the option of four separate spray settings, it makes short work of finishing touches on table legs and other small tasks. There’s also enough grunt to complete larger surface areas.

A substantial 1.5-quart paint cup ensures that you can carry out your task without the interruptions caused by frequent refills. Wagner’s iSpray fluid nozzle works hard to provide coverage up to five times faster than with a brush.

Flow control is also adjustable, meaning that you can slow the machine right down to achieve optimum control, which is crucial when working with polyurethane. When it comes to finishing your DIY day, cleaning is a quickened process with Wagner’s Lock-N-Go system that allows a complete parts breakdown for a thorough rinse.

Wagner SprayTech is a respected manufacturer in the spray painting industry. Boasting generations of experience, its products are both durable and appropriately priced.

Pros

  • Comfortable handle.
  • Sizable 1.5-quart paint cup.
  • Sprays five times faster than a brush.
  • Variable pressure output.
  • Great for mid to large-size projects.
  • Attractive price point.
Cons

  • Not the lightest unit on the market.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating: 4.7
The Wagner Control Painter could have been specifically designed as a polyurethane sprayer — it includes all the features you need to obtain that perfect satin or gloss finish. It also has enough grunt to tackle large-scale applications without breaking a sweat.

This handheld HVLP polyurethane spray gun is suitable for dedicated DIYers that want the best results. With the option of four separate spray settings, it makes short work of finishing touches on table legs and other small tasks. There’s also enough grunt to complete larger surface areas.

A substantial 1.5-quart paint cup ensures that you can carry out your task without the interruptions caused by frequent refills. Wagner’s iSpray fluid nozzle works hard to provide coverage up to five times faster than with a brush.

Flow control is also adjustable, meaning that you can slow the machine right down to achieve optimum control, which is crucial when working with polyurethane. When it comes to finishing your DIY day, cleaning is a quickened process with Wagner’s Lock-N-Go system that allows a complete parts breakdown for a thorough rinse.

Wagner SprayTech is a respected manufacturer in the spray painting industry. Boasting generations of experience, its products are both durable and appropriately priced.

Pros

  • Comfortable handle.
  • Sizable 1.5-quart paint cup.
  • Sprays five times faster than a brush.
  • Variable pressure output.
  • Great for mid to large-size projects.
  • Attractive price point.
Cons

  • Not the lightest unit on the market.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating: 4.7
The Graco Ultra Cordless 17M363 makes a great polyurethane sprayer. Plus it offers the ultimate in portability as there’s no power cord or paint hose to limit your movement. As a smaller airless device, it works perfectly when completing small to midsize projects.

To maximize uptime, the entire pump can be switched out in a matter of minutes thanks to Graco’s ProConnect system. Pressure output can be varied between 500 and 2000 psi to match your spraying needs.

Its 514 nozzle is perfectly sized to handle polyurethane and, as it’s reversible, it’s easy to remove clogs should any occur. Graco’s proprietary FlexLiner bag system makes cleaning a breeze. When you’re done using your sprayer for polyurethane, simply remove the paint bag, then wash and reuse, or even recycle.

A battery charger is also included, so when the DeWalt lithium-ion cells need recharging, there is no searching around to find the right charger. However, you usually get around one hour of use per charge, so recharging is not something you have to do frequently.

The 17M363 falls mid-way in Graco’s niche range of handheld cordless units and is just a step down from the flagship model, the 17M359. Graco strives to deliver the best solutions to every fluid handling need and is favored by both DIYers and contractors.

Pros

  • Adjustable pressure between 500 and 2000 psi.
  • Includes storage case.
  • FlexLiner bag system.
  • ProConnect pump.
  • Cordless and handheld.
  • Durable lithium-ion cells.
Cons

  • Unsuitable for large jobs.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

 

 


Graco Ultra 17M363
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Our Rating: 4.7

The Graco Ultra Cordless 17M363 makes a great polyurethane sprayer. Plus it offers the ultimate in portability as there’s no power cord or paint hose to limit your movement. As a smaller airless device, it works perfectly when completing small to midsize projects.

To maximize uptime, the entire pump can be switched out in a matter of minutes thanks to Graco’s ProConnect system. Pressure output can be varied between 500 and 2000 psi to match your spraying needs.

Its 514 nozzle is perfectly sized to handle polyurethane and, as it’s reversible, it’s easy to remove clogs should any occur. Graco’s proprietary FlexLiner bag system makes cleaning a breeze. When you’re done using your sprayer for polyurethane, simply remove the paint bag, then wash and reuse, or even recycle.

A battery charger is also included, so when the DeWalt lithium-ion cells need recharging, there is no searching around to find the right charger. However, you usually get around one hour of use per charge, so recharging is not something you have to do frequently.

The 17M363 falls mid-way in Graco’s niche range of handheld cordless units and is just a step down from the flagship model, the 17M359. Graco strives to deliver the best solutions to every fluid handling need and is favored by both DIYers and contractors.

Pros

  • Adjustable pressure between 500 and 2000 psi.
  • Includes storage case.
  • FlexLiner bag system.
  • ProConnect pump.
  • Cordless and handheld.
  • Durable lithium-ion cells.
Cons

  • Unsuitable for large jobs.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating: 4.6
Wagner’s Control Spray Double Duty operates well as a handheld polyurethane sprayer. It is aimed toward ardent home-improvers looking to complete small and medium tasks rapidly.

To keep coatings debris-free, which is critical for smooth flawless finishes, there’s a replaceable air filter. The Control Finish fluid nozzle offers the option of three different spray patterns.

The two-stage turbine incorporates adjustable flow output, which allows you to accurately control the volume delivered.

Pattern width can be varied between half an inch to nine inches. There’s a max flow rate of 4.9 fluid ounces per minute.

Two differently sized paint cups (one and 1.5 quarts) mean the sprayer is well suited to both small and midsize projects. When it comes to thinning your poly, the whole process is simplified with the handy viscosity cup.

Wagner SprayTech developed the Control Series for occasional users who want faster results than a traditional brush provides. Wagner is one of the major game players in the spray painting world and owns the other well-known brands Titan Tools, HomeRight, and Earlex.

Pros

  • Two differently sized paint cups.
  • Flow rate of 4.9 fluid ounces per minute.
  • Removable air filter.
  • Three spray patterns.
  • Control finish nozzle.
  • Viscosity cup.
  • Ideal for small and medium-sized projects.
Cons

  • Not suited to larger projects.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Wagner’s Control Spray Double Duty operates well as a handheld polyurethane sprayer. It is aimed toward ardent home-improvers looking to complete small and medium tasks rapidly.

To keep coatings debris-free, which is critical for smooth flawless finishes, there’s a replaceable air filter. The Control Finish fluid nozzle offers the option of three different spray patterns.

The two-stage turbine incorporates adjustable flow output, which allows you to accurately control the volume delivered. Pattern width can be varied between half an inch to nine inches. There’s a max flow rate of 4.9 fluid ounces per minute.

Two differently sized paint cups (one and 1.5 quarts) mean the sprayer is well suited to both small and midsize projects. When it comes to thinning your poly, the whole process is simplified with the handy viscosity cup.

Wagner SprayTech developed the Control Series for occasional users who want faster results than a traditional brush provides. Wagner is one of the major game players in the spray painting world and owns the other well-known brands Titan Tools, HomeRight, and Earlex.

Pros

  • Two differently sized paint cups.
  • Flow rate of 4.9 fluid ounces per minute.
  • Removable air filter.
  • Three spray patterns
  • Control finish nozzle.
  • Viscosity cup.
  • Ideal for small and medium-sized projects.
Cons

  • Not suited to larger projects.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating: 4.5
HVLP devices such as the Fuji 2203G are some of the best polyurethane sprayers as they significantly reduce overspray. The impressive 1400 watt two-stage turbine makes it a top choice among home-improvers and professionals who want showroom-worthy finishes.

A non-bleed spray gun provides the option of three different spray patterns while the 0.42-quart gravity-feed paint cup ensures a steady, constant flow. Should you wish, a larger 1.06-quart bottom-feed cup is also available as an add-on. The 1.3 mm air cap set can spray most coatings but once again, there are different tip sizes available separately (between 1 and 2 mm). For ease of use, the installed turbine filters incorporate a quick-change system.

A 25-foot flexible hose makes moving around your project effortless. And if you do need to move the entire unit, the lightweight metal housing has an inbuilt carry handle.

Fuji Spray is a Canadian-based company that manufactures HVLP sprayers for occasional DIYers and everyday contractors. This company has spent nearly four decades incorporating the latest technology and innovative ideas into all its products.

Pros

  • 25-foot Hi-Flex hose.
  • Two-stage turbine with carry handle.
  • Power output of 1400 watts.
  • 1.3 mm air cap set.
  • Variable spray pattern.
Cons

  • Requires some experience to operate.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Fuji-2203G-Semi-PRO-2CHECK AMAZON PRICE

Our Rating: 4.5
HVLP devices such as the Fuji 2203G are some of the best polyurethane sprayers as they significantly reduce overspray. The impressive 1400 watt two-stage turbine makes it a top choice among home-improvers and professionals who want showroom-worthy finishes.

A non-bleed spray gun provides the option of three different spray patterns while the 0.42-quart gravity-feed paint cup ensures a steady, constant flow. Should you wish, a larger 1.06-quart bottom-feed cup is also available as an add-on. The 1.3 mm air cap set can spray most coatings but once again, there are different tip sizes available separately (between 1 and 2 mm). For ease of use, the installed turbine filters incorporate a quick-change system.

A 25-foot flexible hose makes moving around your project effortless. And if you do need to move the entire unit, the lightweight metal housing has an inbuilt carry handle.

Fuji Spray is a Canadian-based company that manufactures HVLP sprayers for occasional DIYers and everyday contractors. This company has spent nearly four decades incorporating the latest technology and innovative ideas into all its products.

Pros

  • 25-foot Hi-Flex hose.
  • Two-stage turbine with carry handle.
  • Power output of 1400 watts
  • 1.3 mm air cap set.
  • Variable spray pattern.
Cons

  • Requires some experience to operate.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating: 4.5
Most DIYers require a polyurethane sprayer that’s straightforward to operate and lays down faultless finishes — just like the Wagner FLEXiO 570. This unit is 50 percent quieter than other HVLP devices (according to Wagner, at least) and is designed with larger projects in mind.

A well-made machine, it includes variable flow control and the option of three different fan patterns. Adjust the width of the patterns with a handy lever and get the spray exactly as you need it.

Wagner’s iSpray fluid nozzle is perfectly sized for larger surface areas and provides rapid, even coverage with a variety of coatings. As it’s 20 percent lighter than competitors’ sprayers and includes an ergonomic handle, this unit prevents bothersome arm fatigue when spraying for long periods.

You have the option of spraying directly from the original paint can or the included paint cup. For intricate work, a Detail Finish nozzle is available at extra cost.

Wagner SprayTech developed the FLEXiO Series with determined DIYers in mind. Having been at the heart of the spray painting world for a very long time, the Wagner name, and its trademark black and yellow color scheme, has come to stand for innovation and quality.

Pros

  • X-Boost adjustable dial.
  • Adjustable width lever.
  • Straightforward to clean.
  • Great for medium to large size tasks.
  • Quiet operation.
Cons

  • Could soon be replaced by the Wagner FLEXiO 2000.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Most DIYers require a polyurethane sprayer that’s straightforward to operate and lays down faultless finishes — just like the Wagner FLEXiO 570. This unit is 50 percent quieter than other HVLP devices (according to Wagner, at least) and is designed with larger projects in mind.

A well-made machine, it includes variable flow control and the option of three different fan patterns. Adjust the width of the patterns with a handy lever and get the spray exactly as you need it.

Wagner’s iSpray fluid nozzle is perfectly sized for larger surface areas and provides rapid, even coverage with a variety of coatings. As it’s 20 percent lighter than competitors’ sprayers and includes an ergonomic handle, this unit prevents bothersome arm fatigue when spraying for long periods.

You have the option of spraying directly from the original paint can or the included paint cup. For intricate work, a Detail Finish nozzle is available at extra cost.

Wagner SprayTech developed the FLEXiO Series with determined DIYers in mind. Having been at the heart of the spray painting world for a very long time, the Wagner name, and its trademark black and yellow color scheme, has come to stand for innovation and quality.

Pros

  • X-Boost adjustable dial.
  • Adjustable width lever.
  • Straightforward to clean.
  • Great for medium to large size tasks.
  • Quiet operation.
Cons

  • Could soon be replaced by the Wagner FLEXiO 2000.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating 4.3
An affordable polyurethane sprayer, the Wagner Opti Stain Plus is excellent for small-sized wood projects. It is also straightforward to operate, making it appealing to weekend warriors and inexperienced decorators.

This HVLP machine incorporates a Control Finish nozzle that switches between three different fan patterns — round, vertical, and horizontal — by a simple turn of the ears. It also minimizes overspray, meaning less cleaning up when you’re done.

The paint cup could be a little on the small side for medium and large jobs. But at 0.875 quarts, it holds enough poly for most furniture applications. Importantly, it can handle polyurethane without thinning.

To enhance this machine’s operational capacity, the coating container is also fitted with a flexible uptake tube, so it can draw paint out at any spray angle. Another convenient feature is the Lock-N-Go system which makes post-project cleaning a fuss-free affair.

Wagner SprayTech Corporation is a Minneapolis-based business that develops cast solutions for industrial, commercial, and home-improving applications. Wagner aims to provide its customers with the latest high-end technology backed by quality service.

Pros

  • Control Finish nozzle.
  • 0.875-quart paint cup.
  • Three fan patterns.
  • Suited to small wood applications.
  • Adjustable material flow.
Cons

  • The turbine output is not adjustable.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

 

 


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Our Rating: 4.3
An affordable polyurethane sprayer, the Wagner Opti Stain Plus is excellent for small-sized wood projects. It is also straightforward to operate, making it appealing to weekend warriors and inexperienced decorators.

This HVLP machine incorporates a Control Finish nozzle that switches between three different fan patterns — round, vertical, and horizontal — by a simple turn of the ears. It also minimizes overspray, meaning less cleaning up when you’re done.

The paint cup could be a little on the small side for medium and large jobs. But at 0.875 quarts, it holds enough poly for most furniture applications. Importantly, it can handle polyurethane without thinning.

To enhance this machine’s operational capacity, the coating container is also fitted with a flexible uptake tube, so it can draw paint out at any spray angle. Another convenient feature is the Lock-N-Go system which makes post-project cleaning a fuss-free affair.

Wagner SprayTech Corporation is a Minneapolis-based business that develops cast solutions for industrial, commercial, and home-improving applications. Wagner aims to provide its customers with the latest high-end technology backed by quality service.

Pros

  • Control Finish nozzle.
  • 0.875-quart paint cup.
  • Three fan patterns.
  • Suited to small wood applications.
  • Adjustable material flow.
Cons

  • The turbine output is not adjustable.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating: 4.3
A floor-based turbine polyurethane sprayer, like the Earlex Spray Port 6003 with its three-stage turbine, has the grunt and the finesse to deliver flawless finishes. Pushing out 5.5 psi at 90 cfm, it has more than enough power to complete tasks rapidly.

Angled towards pros and occasional home-improvers alike, this HVLP machine permits spraying in a range of fan patterns. Furthermore, the 1.3 mm air cap is rotatable and operates at a variety of angles.

The flow rate of 0.12 gallons per minute (gpm) means the unit can comfortably handle a wide variety of viscous coatings.

And, with the quick connect flexible 25-foot hose, it provides a substantial reach around most projects.

The Pro 8 all-metal spray gun provides perfect atomization and is favored by contractors around the world. The paint container is coated with polytetrafluoroethylene for durability and holds an impressive one quart.

Earlex is a subsidiary of the popular Wagner SprayTech brand. It provides affordable quality tools to those that demand the ultimate in craftsmanship.

Pros

  • 25-foot flexible hose.
  • Ground-based turbine.
  • Multi-angle spraying ability.
  • 1.3-mm air cap and needle.
  • All-metal Pro 8 spray gun.
Cons

  • Unsuitable for larger projects.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

 

 


Earlex 0HV6003PUS Spray Port 6003 HVLP Paint SprayerCHECK AMAZON PRICE

 

 

Our Rating 4.3
A floor-based turbine polyurethane sprayer, like the Earlex Spray Port 6003 with its three-stage turbine, has the grunt and the finesse to deliver flawless finishes. Pushing out 5.5 psi at 90 cfm, it has more than enough power to complete tasks rapidly.

Angled towards pros and occasional home-improvers alike, this HVLP machine permits spraying in a range of fan patterns. Furthermore, the 1.3 mm air cap is rotatable and operates at a variety of angles.

The flow rate of 0.12 gallons per minute (gpm) means the unit can comfortably handle a wide variety of viscous coatings. And, with the quick connect flexible 25-foot hose, it provides a substantial reach around most projects.

The Pro 8 all-metal spray gun provides perfect atomization and is favored by contractors around the world. The paint container is coated with polytetrafluoroethylene for durability and holds an impressive one quart.

Earlex is a subsidiary of the popular Wagner SprayTech brand. It provides affordable quality tools to those that demand the ultimate in craftsmanship.

Pros

  • 25-foot flexible hose.
  • Ground-based turbine.
  • Multi-angle spraying ability.
  • 1.3-mm air cap and needle.
  • All-metal Pro 8 spray gun.
Cons

  • Unsuitable for larger projects.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating 4.0
The Wagner Control Pro 190 polyurethane sprayer offers an airless solution for users with medium to large-size projects planned. With high-efficiency airless (HEA) technology, not only is there less overspray but set up and operation are a breeze.

Operating at a maximum pressure of 1600 psi, cranked out from the 0.70 horsepower pump, it has no issue with varnishes and stains. And, with the flexible uptake tube that draws liquid directly from original coating containers, you can spray up to 0.40 gpm.

With a 50-foot flexible hose, you have the luxury of using this device on sizable exterior projects, as well as smaller interior jobs. Additionally, the 0.015-inch fluid nozzle is the consummate size for polyurethane coatings.

Paint output is tailorable to your individual needs with a convenient control knob. There is also convenient storage at the top of the unit and an ergonomic carry handle.

Wagner SprayTech offers durable yet affordable solutions for professional painters and hobbyists alike. With over seven decades of experience, this company is not afraid to stand behind its products with a two-year warranty.

Pros

  • HEA technology.
  • Durable pump.
  • Built-in storage and carry handle.
  • Flexible 50-foot hose.
  • 0.015-inch fluid nozzle.
Cons

  • Not as straightforward as other units to clean up.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
The Wagner Control Pro 190 polyurethane sprayer offers an airless solution for users with medium to large-size projects planned. With high-efficiency airless (HEA) technology, not only is there less overspray but set up and operation are a breeze.

Operating at a maximum pressure of 1600 psi, cranked out from the 0.70 horsepower pump, it has no issue with varnishes and stains. And, with the flexible uptake tube that draws liquid directly from original coating containers, you can spray up to 0.40 gpm.

With a 50-foot flexible hose, you have the luxury of using this device on sizable exterior projects, as well as smaller interior jobs. Additionally, the 0.015-inch fluid nozzle is the consummate size for polyurethane coatings.

Paint output is tailorable to your individual needs with a convenient control knob. There is also convenient storage at the top of the unit and an ergonomic carry handle.

Wagner SprayTech offers durable yet affordable solutions for professional painters and hobbyists alike. With over seven decades of experience, this company is not afraid to stand behind its products with a two-year warranty.

Pros

  • HEA technology.
  • Durable pump.
  • Built-in storage and carry handle.
  • Flexible 50-foot hose.
  • 0.015-inch fluid nozzle.
Cons

  • Not as straightforward as other units to clean up.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price
Our Rating: 4.0
When it comes to the awkward angles that sometimes arise when you’re using a polyurethane sprayer on furniture, the Graco Truecoat 360 VSP has your back. Graco’s patented VacuValve system permits any orientation spraying, with no loss of pressure.

Extremely lightweight at less than four pounds, arm and hand fatigue will be a thing of the past. Adjustable speed output allows you to up the pace when required and get the job done faster.

There are a plethora of accompaniments to this machine, including two reversible 0.015-inch fluid nozzles that protect against job interrupting clogs. Furthermore, they permit a fan pattern of between 4 and 12 inches, which is great for the majority of polyurethane applications.

Four FlexLiner bags are included, each with a capacity of 42-ounces. When you’ve finished the project, the entire unit and extra tips fit into a durable storage case that protects the device from accidental knocks and debris.

Graco has almost a century of experience behind its products and is renowned for innovative fluid handling systems. The company also manufactures sealants and pressure washers in addition to paint guns.

Pros

  • Handheld airless unit.
  • 360-degree spraying ability.
  • Storage case.
  • Two reversible 0.015-inch fluid tips.
  • Four reusable and recyclable FlexLiner bags.
Cons

  • Not suited for professional everyday use.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

 

 


Graco 17D889 TrueCoat 360 VSPCHECK AMAZON PRICE

 

 

Our Rating 4.0
When it comes to the awkward angles that sometimes arise when you’re using a polyurethane sprayer on furniture, the Graco Truecoat 360 VSP has your back. Graco’s patented VacuValve system permits any orientation spraying, with no loss of pressure.

Extremely lightweight at less than four pounds, arm and hand fatigue will be a thing of the past. Adjustable speed output allows you to up the pace when required and get the job done faster.

There are a plethora of accompaniments to this machine, including two reversible 0.015-inch fluid nozzles that protect against job interrupting clogs. Furthermore, they permit a fan pattern of between 4 and 12 inches, which is great for the majority of polyurethane applications.

Four FlexLiner bags are included, each with a capacity of 42-ounces. When you’ve finished the project, the entire unit and extra tips fit into a durable storage case that protects the device from accidental knocks and debris.

Graco has almost a century of experience behind its products and is renowned for innovative fluid handling systems. The company also manufactures sealants and pressure washers in addition to paint guns.

Pros

  • Handheld airless unit.
  • 360-degree spraying ability.
  • Storage case.
  • Two reversible 0.015-inch fluid tips.
  • Four reusable and recyclable FlexLiner bags.
Cons

  • Not suited for professional everyday use.
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Conclusion


Hopefully, this review has you excited about upgrading your wooden items and leaving them with high gloss or satin sheens. And you have learned, polyurethane is not as difficult as the rumors would have you believe. It really comes down to having the right tools for the job.

When selecting the best sprayer for you, remember you have the option between airless or HVLP machines — depending on the size of your project and whether you want to use the water or oil-based version of this coating. Furthermore, make sure you choose the correctly sized fluid nozzle for this medium viscosity fluid.

Additionally, the volume control means flawless, even layers that are paramount when spraying polyurethane. Likewise, portability is key when it comes to reaching around your projects, so choose a unit with a lengthy hose or one that is handheld.

With the perfect polyurethane sprayer, your wooden belongings will gleam in no time at all.

Polyurethane Sprayer FAQs

Q: What Is the Best Sprayer for Polyurethane?

In my opinion, the best sprayer for polyurethane is the Wagner Control Painter. Incorporating HVLP technology and Wagner’s iSpray fluid nozzle, it handles medium to large surface areas with ease.

Q: Can You Spray Polyurethane With an HVLP Gun?

Yes, spraying polyurethane with an HVLP device is possible, provided you use the right size tip and have a machine with enough power for this viscous coating. Plus, HVLP technology offers advantages over an airless machine, such as reduced overspray and less wastage.

Q: Can You Dry Polyurethane in the Sun?

In theory, heat speeds up drying times, however, the UV rays from the sun could cause irreparable damage to the finish. Furthermore, you risk dust particles landing in the coating, which would ruin the high-gloss sheen, and put all your hard work to waste.

Q: Is Polyurethane Water Resistant?

Yes, while polyurethane will not completely waterproof an item, it does provide a level of resistance.

Q: Is One Coat of Polyurethane Enough?

As a general rule, you need a minimum of two coats to achieve a perfect overlay. Some manufacturers even recommend three.

Q: How Long Does Spray Polyurethane Take To Dry?

After around two hours, polyurethane should be dry to the touch. This being said, I would recommend that you leave the polyurethane to dry overnight before moving or using the item.