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Answer
Dec 08, 2025 - 11:40 AM
That’s a great question, and an extremely common one.
The honest answer is: there is no single “best” spray tip for refinishing bathtubs.
The correct tip size depends entirely on the complete spray system being used.
Unlike automotive or cabinet coatings, bathtub coatings vary widely in viscosity, solids content, chemistry, and reduction requirements. On top of that, turbine HVLP systems differ greatly in available air pressure and volume. All of these factors work together.
Choosing a spray tip without considering the variables below often leads to:
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Orange peel
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Excessive texture
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Dry spray
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Runs and sags
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Over-reduction of coatings (which causes performance failures)
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The viscosity of the product being sprayed
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Whether it’s an epoxy primer or a urethane topcoat
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The amount and type of reducer used (if any)
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The power of the turbine HVLP system (number of stages)
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Ambient temperature and humidity
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Spray technique and desired film build
Because of this, two refinishers can use the same coating and require different tip sizes simply because their turbine systems are different.
To Give You an Accurate Answer, We Need These Details
If you’d like a precise recommendation instead of a guess, please answer the questions below. This allows us to give you guidance that actually works in the field, not just on paper.
Spray Equipment-
Brand and model of HVLP system
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Number of turbine stages (2–3, 4, 5, or 6 stage)
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Product name and manufacturer
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Is it an epoxy primer or a urethane topcoat?
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Is it low-VOC or traditional solvent-based?
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Reducer used (type and manufacturer)
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Reduction ratio (example: 10%, 15%, etc.)
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Pot pressure or gravity feed?
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Current spray tip and air cap being used
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Typical jobsite temperature
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Humidity level (approximate is fine)
Why This Matters
Modern high-solids and low-VOC coatings require more air energy to atomize correctly. Using a tip that’s too small with an underpowered turbine often forces refinishers to over-reduce coatings — which can:
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Break chemical integrity
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Reduce gloss and DOI
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Cause pinholes, blushing, or poor adhesion
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Shorten the life of the finish
The goal is proper atomization without compromising the coating.
That only happens when the coating, reduction, spray tip, and turbine output are matched correctly.
Bottom Line
We’re always happy to help — but a spray tip recommendation without knowing the system is like recommending tires without knowing the vehicle.
Answer the questions above, and we’ll point you in the right direction the first time, instead of guessing.
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