
POR-15 is a unique paint product that is strengthened by exposure to moisture. It is designed to prevent rust by providing a protective coating to metal surfaces. While it is an effective solution for rust prevention, it is important to consider the appropriate thinning method to ensure optimal results. This has led to discussions on whether regular paint thinner can be used with POR-15 or if specific thinning products are required. The product's effectiveness, coupled with its unique characteristics, has sparked curiosity about its compatibility with regular paint thinner, prompting further exploration into potential alternatives and the underlying factors influencing the choice of thinning agents.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use case | POR-15 is a paint, primer, and coating used for rust prevention and treatment. |
| Application | POR-15 can be applied by brushing or spraying. Brushing is generally recommended to avoid thinning the product. |
| Thinning | POR-15 recommends using their own thinner product, but some users suggest alternatives like lacquer thinner, finish medium reducer, or Chassis Saver Reducer. |
| Performance | POR-15 claims higher purity and better performance compared to common off-the-shelf thinners like Xylene. It is strengthened by exposure to moisture, unlike ordinary paints. |
| Health and Safety | POR-15 is hazardous if inhaled and requires the use of a good paint respirator. |
| Cost | POR-15 and its thinner are considered expensive by some users, who suggest cheaper alternatives. |
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What You'll Learn

POR-15 thinner is expensive and hard to find
POR-15 thinner is considered expensive by many users, with some saying that it is overpriced. The cost is $11 per quart, plus shipping. The high price is attributed to its low moisture content, with POR-15 claiming that their thinner is 99.98% pure compared to common off-the-shelf alternatives. This claim is disputed by some users, who call it "marketing BS".
The product is also hard to find, with one user reporting that they had a difficult time sourcing it. It is not available at local hardware stores, and users must typically order it online, adding to the shipping cost. Some users have suggested that the difficulty in finding POR-15 thinner is due to its specialty nature, as the company wants customers to use their specific thinner.
Due to the challenges of sourcing and the high cost of POR-15 thinner, some people have sought alternative products that can be bought off the shelf or at hardware stores. Substitutes suggested include Ethylbenzene, Xylene, Toluene, and KBS #1 Thinner. However, POR-15 claims that using other products will compromise the performance of their paint, reducing its strength and durability.
While some users have reported success with alternative thinners, others have encountered issues. One user reported that their spray gun was ruined after using a different thinner with POR-15. Therefore, while POR-15 thinner may be expensive and hard to find, using alternative products may come with its own set of challenges and risks.
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Some suggest using a regular paint thinner
POR-15 is a unique type of paint that is strengthened by exposure to moisture. It is designed to prevent rust by providing a protective coating to metal surfaces. While it is an effective solution for rust prevention, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for optimal results.
Some people have suggested using a regular paint thinner with POR-15. This is because the official POR-15 thinner is quite expensive and can be difficult to source. People have had success thinning POR-15 with various paint reducers and lacquer thinners that are more readily available and affordable. However, it is important to note that not all lacquer thinners are compatible with POR-15, and using the wrong thinner can negatively impact the performance and durability of the coating.
One suggestion is to use a good-quality lacquer thinner for thinning POR-15. This can be a suitable alternative, but it is crucial to ensure that the thinner is compatible with solvent-based urethane coatings and does not contain water, as water can adversely affect the performance of the POR-15 coating. It is recommended to thin POR-15 by no more than 5% when using a lacquer thinner.
Another option mentioned is to use a paint reducer. Some people have reported success in thinning POR-15 with various paint reducers they had on hand. However, it is important to note that using a paint reducer can clog spray guns, so it is advisable to use a disposable gun or one that you don't mind risking damage. Additionally, it is recommended to clean the spray gun thoroughly after use to prevent any issues.
It is worth noting that POR-15 itself recommends using only their thinner for optimal results. They claim that their thinner is more pure than common off-the-shelf thinners and that using other products may compromise the strength and durability of the coating. While some people believe this is a marketing strategy, others have found that using the official thinner provides predictable and satisfactory results.
Ultimately, while it may be possible to use a regular paint thinner with POR-15, it is important to exercise caution. Using the wrong thinner can lead to issues with the coating's performance and durability. For those who are unsure, it may be best to follow POR-15's recommendations and use their specific thinner to ensure optimal results and maintain the unique properties of this rust-preventive paint.
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Others recommend a good-quality lacquer thinner
POR-15 is a rust-preventive paint that can be applied with a brush or spray gun. While some users have had success thinning the paint with whatever paint reducer they had available, others recommend a good-quality lacquer thinner.
Lacquer thinner is a solvent used to thin oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes. It is also effective at cleaning brushes and equipment. When choosing a lacquer thinner, it is important to select a high-quality product that is dependable and reliable.
One recommended thinner is the Klean-Strip® Lacquer Thinner. This product is a leading brand of solvents and thinners that delivers reliable results for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. It is effective at thinning lacquer and epoxy, improving flow and leveling, and resisting blushing. The Klean-Strip® Lacquer Thinner is also safe for the environment, with 20% renewable and biodegradable content.
Another option is the Jasco® Green™ Lacquer Thinner. This product is formulated to deliver effective performance while minimizing its impact on the environment. It is made with more natural and renewable resources while still providing professional-quality results.
For automotive and industrial applications, the Safety-Kleen Heavy Duty Lacquer Thinner is a good choice. This thinner is a special blend of solvents formulated to remove paints from brushes and paint gun spray equipment. It is commonly used in automotive body shops and industrial paint refinishing applications.
When using a lacquer thinner with POR-15, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions. As with any paint or thinner, it is crucial to use a good paint respirator to protect yourself from harmful fumes.
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Ethylbenzene and xylene are also possible substitutes
POR-15 is a rust-preventive paint that can be applied without thinning if using a brush. However, if spraying, POR-15 recommends using their solvent or a good-quality lacquer thinner. Some people have used other paint thinners with varying degrees of success, but it is not recommended as it could ruin your spray gun.
Paint thinners are solvents used to dilute oil-based paints or varnish. They are typically white or mineral spirits. Some common organic compounds used as paint thinners include lacquer thinner, a combination of alcohols, alkyl esters, ethers, ketones, and aromatic hydrocarbons.
Less common organic compounds used as paint thinners include aromatic hydrocarbons, which are more hazardous and heavily regulated. These include ethylbenzene and xylene. Ethylbenzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon and a less common organic solvent used as a paint thinner. It is more hazardous and heavily regulated due to its ignitable properties. Xylene, also known as xylol, is another less common organic solvent used as a paint thinner. It is a flammable solvent that can be used to thin specified oil-based paint, lacquer, varnish, epoxy, adhesives, anti-rust coatings, and synthetic enamels. It is also an excellent solvent for cleaning tools and equipment.
Thus, ethylbenzene and xylene are possible substitutes for thinning paints like POR-15. However, due to their hazardous nature, it is essential to exercise caution and refer to the manufacturer's recommendations when using these solvents.
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POR-15 thinner is said to be more pure than regular thinner
POR-15 is a special type of paint that is designed to be used on surfaces that have rust on them. It is a rust-preventive coating that needs a rust base to convert, seal, and hold on to. If used on clean bare metal or other non-rusted surfaces, it will peel and lift.
When it comes to thinning POR-15 paint, the manufacturer recommends using their own POR-15 Reducer Low VOC Solvent. This thinner is specifically designed to work with POR-15 paints, primers, and coatings. It is a medium-temperature speed formula that can be used to thin the paint by up to 5%-15% depending on the coating formula. It is important to note that POR-15 thinner is not compatible with water-based coatings or lacquer.
Some people have expressed concerns about the cost of the POR-15 thinner and have sought alternatives. While the manufacturer recommends their own product, some users have reported success with using other paint reducers or thinners. For example, one user on a forum mentioned that they have used whatever paint reducer they had on hand without any issues. Another user suggested using a urethane reducer from an auto body supply store, as recommended by POR-15 in response to a query.
However, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with using alternative thinners. One user reported that using a different thinner plugged up their spray gun, and another user cautioned that thinning POR-15 could ruin the spray gun. Additionally, the POR-15 thinner is designed to work specifically with their products, ensuring good predictable results every time.
While regular paint thinners may work to some extent with POR-15 paint, the POR-15 thinner is said to be more pure and specifically formulated for their products. It is always recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the recommended thinner to achieve the best results and avoid any potential issues.
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Frequently asked questions
POR-15 recommends using their own reducer paint thinner formula for the best results. However, some people have used regular paint thinner or lacquer thinner and achieved acceptable results.
The POR-15 thinner formula is designed to work with their range of paints, primers, and coatings. It is a medium-temperature speed formula that can be used with a spray gun, brush, or roller.
Yes, POR-15 can be applied with a spray gun, but it is essential to use proper equipment and organic vapor particulate respirators for solvents. Some people have experienced issues with the spray gun getting clogged, so it is important to clean it thoroughly or use a disposable gun.











































