portable air compressor- is it possible to do this:

greendot

Hi

I own a three family and I am in the process of buying another 4 family. I was thinking lately that a smart investment for me will be an air compressor. I tried to read up on air compressors to see if I can really do what I am thinking of doing with it but to no avail so I decided to just ask in here. So, I would like to understand if it will be possible to do all of the actions that I will mention and which compressor I should buy for it.

I would like to use the air compressor for:

1. painting the apartments
2. putting down wood floors
3. nailing
4. power washing siding

I am not sure if it is possible or not....

thanks

Mr Chips

are you talking about a trailer mounted unit that is a gas powered combo power washer and compressor? I think I have seen something like this in Northern Tool catalog. Not something you'd find in stock at Home Depot

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greendot

I thought that I can just buy a regular portable, electric powered air compressor and then use it for all this application with different tools.....

Mr Chips

Never heard of a compressor used for power washing, but you should have no problem finding a compressor to use for framing, flooring, and running a paint sprayer. Probably need at least a 5hp, 30 gallon. Run you about $250 minimum for electric unit i'd imagine

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greendot

forget power washing....

For the rest I'll be able to do so? I almost bought a cheap 3 gal one but I think it won't be enough for painting which is important to me as I will need to do so at least once or twice a year.

Mr Chips

if you want something to power a hammer and gravity feed spray gun you'll want something bigger. Those little ones work to fill tires and run a brad nailer, but that's about all they are good for. I'm all for saving money, but if you spend $100 and it won't work for you, how much have you really saved?

Some friends of mine have one of those little Porter Cable pancake jobs ( wasn't what i'd call "cheap"), but they have to borrow my 30 gallon craftsman to run a paint sprayer.

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oh'mike

If you are hoping to paint the apartments with latex--and do it quickly and with out a lot of overspray---
---You will want a paint pump.

Compressor driven spray units are for lighter paints and varnishes. They don't do well with heavy bodied latex.--Mike--