Using Lacquer Thinner To Solve Your Paint Job Problems

Posted by Clarristaleo on January 17th, 2019

A paint thinner is capable of dissolving oil-based paints and can dilute dry paint. Painting equipment such as brushes, rollers, and containers can also be cleaned using thinner. In order to completely understand the proper usage of paint thinners, you must know its various ingredients. It consists of various ingredients such as toluene, turpentine, and acetone. These ingredients exhibit different properties. It is also crucial to have the knowledge of the safety precautions to avoid overexposure to solvent fumes or vapors. This article will discuss the paint thinners, why one should use them and some basic information on lacquer thinner.

Most commonly used thinners:

1. Toluene - one of the most commonly used thinners. This aromatic hydrocarbon is derived from the balsam tree. Since it is a highly combustible liquid, keeping it away from heat sources is a good practice. This can cause dizziness, nausea, and irritation in the eyes if inhaled.

2. Turpentine - originating from the pin trees, it is used to make varnishes. Just like toluene it also is a highly combustible liquid. If inhaled in high quantities, it can cause respiratory and nervous system disorders.

3. Acetone - this is the safest of the three and is the primary constituent in nail polish removers. It can also remove adhesives effectively. Even if it does not pose a great amount of threat, however, it still remains a high inflammable liquid.

Uses of lacquer thinner

1. Lacquer thinner is used to thin and clean up lacquer based paints. It generally produces a high-gloss, smooth and streak-free finish. Lacquer thinners are used to increase the flow and leveling of lacquer.

2. It is used to remove ink on metals and from numerous other surface varieties. It is extremely strong and evaporates quickly.

3. It is a superior cleaner compared to mineral spirits.

4. Lacquer thinner is an effective paint brush cleaner. It has the ability to soften and dissolve paints even if is hard.

5. It is effective in removing residue from plastic cement. It also works with polyester resins and fiberglass. It can also be used to clean tools equipment used for working with these materials.

You can go with a 5-gallon lacquer thinner or if you are into something related to the paint industry you can opt for 55-gallon lacquer thinner.

Safety measures

Use thinners in a properly ventilated area and wear protective gears which includes eyewear, hand gloves, and face masks. You must not allow small kids, elder people or pets to come near the designated area. The unused thinner container gives off high toxic vapors, be sure to dispose of them properly before leaving.

Author: The author is a blogger and the article is about lacquer thinner.