I'm at a point in my home improvement process where I either need to buy an airless sprayer or some type of HVLP setup to paint a boat load of case, base, 10+ six-panel doors, extension jambs, built-ins, etc. I simply don't have time or patience to paint them all by hand myself, and I don't have the money to hire the work out (quotes coming in over a grand, plus there's the scheduling/logistics issues). So I am looking to invest in a spray setup.
The paint I'm planning to use is Sherwin Williams ProClassic water based paint. It's slow going by hand, but I like the durability of the finish product - nice and hard, no blocking, good sheen, etc. I've heard it sprays well to boot. I am not married to this finish, and will consider other types of "enamels" for door/trim (prefer only water borne).
The biggest piece(s) are built-in cabinets, floor to ceiling 8' tall, 4' wide. I do not anticipate ever finishing a piece larger than this. In sq footage terms, I have many times more feet of trim, base, and doors to paint.
I would like to go with a compressor and some type of gun vs. an airless sytem (or turbine HVLP) mainly for the (perceived) flexibility. I would love to have a system that can apply fine finishes (stains, lacquers, etc) for furniture (cabinets and tables coming next year) and thicker finishes (paints) if possible. I need to buy a good compressor for home improvement and auto projects anyway.
That said, my painting projects are priority now, and I'm not interested in buying a flexible system that's marginal for spraying paint (or similar finishes). I need a system that will work and has some margin for a beginner. If that spells airless, so be it.
I would like to spend less than $600, but I can flex up to about $900 if needed. From my research, that will get me into the middle of the "good" airless sprayers bought new, or the higher end used equipment. I'm not sure if that will pay for a compressor and gun + accessories (tips, separators, filters, pressure pots?, etc). Spraying will take place outside or in a garage made into a spray room.
I hope this is enough info to steer me in the right direction. If not, I'll be glad to post more information or answer any questions. As I alluded to earlier, I'm not married to any paths yet (equipment or finish type), and welcome any and all advice.
Cheers and thanks,
Andrew