Should you water down paint

Question

My father-in-law helps with a lot of basic DIY now that he's retired and he waters down the paint before applying it. Is this normal as it's not something I've ever done myself?

Alan · Answer

In the 50 or so years of decorating I have never watered down paint , lots of paint is too thin to do this , more coats more cost ant time in labour for client

Neal · Answer

The only ever time you need to water down paint is if you want to put a weak mist coat on to start with and thats usually on new plaster

Audrey · Answer

In my personal experience, some modern emulsions contain primer within the formula and can be quite thick straight from the tin. In certain situations, a very small amount of clean water (within the manufacturer’s guidelines) can help improve flow and make it roll on more smoothly. On new plaster, a proper mist coat (usually diluted as recommended by the manufacturer) is important to allow the paint to bond correctly. It’s important not to over-dilute though, as that can affect coverage and durability.

Some water-based glosses can be slightly diluted (as per the manufacturer’s instructions) to improve flow, but many are designed to be used straight from the tin. Oil-based gloss shouldn’t be watered down with water — only the correct thinner if specified (e.g. white spirit). Over-thinning can affect coverage, durability and finish.

Colin · Answer

If it’s new plastered walls and ceilings the first coat should be watered down it’s called a mist coat and that seals the plaster ready for painting

John · Answer

It helps to water down the paint for the first coat on fresh plaster , usually by 20%.

Should you water down paint

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