Fact or Fiction: Spray Paint

Estimated Completion Time
1 min
Fact or Fiction: Spray Paint
Image: Hemera Technologies/©Getty Images/Thinkstock

About This Quiz

So you think you know a lot about spray paint, huh? OK, smartypants -- let's see if you can tell fact from fiction when it comes to aerosol paint.
Spray painting is dangerous.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

While there are some dangers if used improperly, spray paint is fairly safe if you follow the manufacturer's instructions and paint in a well-ventilated space.

Advertisement

Spray Paint is only for outdoor use.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

There are several varieties designed specifically to be used indoors. These are typically low-odor and fast-drying.

Advertisement

You should use a primer before spray painting any project.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Yes! A primer is a great way to reduce surface imperfections and achieve a smooth, final look.

Advertisement

You can't use spray paint to stain wood.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Most manufacturers offer options for applying spray finish to wood.

Advertisement

You can spray paint your lawn.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

In addition to using spray paint to mark sports fields, there are also paints on the market that you can spray on a dead lawn to turn it green.

Advertisement

Spray paint is damaging to the environment.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Modern spray paints use chemical and organic propellants that are safer for the environment.

Advertisement

Spray paint fades faster than regular paint.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Spray paint will last as long as traditional roll-on paint, and there are even options formulated to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

Advertisement

Spray painting is faster than using a brush or roller.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

It's not only faster, but spray paint offers coverage in hard-to-reach areas.

Advertisement

Spray painting takes practice.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

It may take some time to learn just the right amount of pressure to apply and to achieve the smooth, even strokes required for the desired finish.

Advertisement

Spray paint always makes a mess.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

If the surrounding area is masked to protect it from splatter and the can is held the proper distance from the object, clean-up should be a breeze.

Advertisement

Spray paint doesn't store well.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The valve in the can automatically seals itself and should prevent unused paint from drying up.

Advertisement

The rattle means the can is empty.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The rattle is caused by the pea, a small metal ball place inside the can to help mix the paint/propellant mixture.

Advertisement

Spray paint can be used to get high.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Huffing, or the intentional inhalation of aerosol compounds, can result in intoxication.

Advertisement

Graffiti artists use special spray paint.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

As this art form has increased in popularity, manufacturers have started formulating supplies to cater to this group.

Advertisement

All spray paint is the same.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Spray paint comes in a variety of options designed for specific surfaces, color palettes and weather resistance.

Advertisement

My color isn't available in spray paint.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This one's probably false. Spray paint comes in virtually any color, shade or finish.

Advertisement

Spray paint dries quickly.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Spray paint dries very quickly compared to regular paint, and many brands boast curing times of less than 10 minutes.

Advertisement

Spray paint was invented during WWII.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

WWII helped spur the popularity of aerosol sprays as a means of administering bug spray, but it wasn't until 1949 that Ed Seymour used it for paint.

Advertisement

Spray paint is always toxic.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Many manufacturers use non-toxic compounds in their paint formulas.

Advertisement

Spray paint is ideal for any project.
fact
fiction
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

For painting large, featureless surface areas, using a brush or roller is probably most effective.

Advertisement

You Got:
/20
Hemera Technologies/©Getty Images/Thinkstock