Dry Spray is a problem that occurs during painting and it can be a result of improper chemical mixing or technique while spraying.

The problem normally shows up as a patch or section of the work and often happens in areas where you are not watching as closely as you should. Lower rocker panels, bottoms of bumpers are areas you may see this problem but it can also occur anywhere throughout your job.

The problem is most noticeable in single stage applications where a followup clear is not used.

The surface will look granular and no gloss will be noticeable.

What can cause Dry Spray Paint problems?

The most common thing that can cause Dry Spray is improper technique.

Painting too fast

Painting too far from the surface of the vehicle

Air Pressure too high

Fanning your gun or improper angle to the surface

Chemical problems that can cause Dry Spray include

Improper reduction with the result of too high viscosity

Using the wrong amount of hardener or activator

Using the wrong temperature solvents and hardeners for the conditions.

How can you prevent Dry Spray Paint problems?

Since technique is more likely to result in this problems you should always make sure that your paint is flowing enough to fully wet the surface.

You may need to adjust your gun, your distance to the work or speed and overlap.

If you feel that you are spraying with normal technique and have this problem through out your work area then the chemicals used for mixing are likely the problem.

Using a better matched temperature rated reducer, activator and hardner should eliminate the problem however because most painters do not check their viscosity with a viscosity cup and rely on the mixing ratio you may want to add reducer to your mix to increase the flow.

How do you cure Dry Spray Paint problems after they result?

You must sand the surface of the area that has dry spray problems and check for adhesion problems.

If you have dry spray due to chemical mixtures then you may need to remove the paint .

If you have dry spray due to technique you will need to sand the surface smooth and reapply paint and clear if necessary.