Yes, you can thin thickened DiamondFinish Clear using KBS #1 Thinner or Xylene. Thickening occurs when solvents evaporate during storage, and thinning brings the coating back down to a standard spray viscosity. The key is adding thinner gradually and testing as you go.
Why DiamondFinish Clear Thickens During Storage
DiamondFinish Clear is a solvent-based coating. During storage, especially if the can is not sealed perfectly or if it is exposed to temperature changes, the solvents in the coating gradually evaporate. As the volatile components escape, the remaining material becomes thicker and more viscous. This is a normal part of the product lifecycle and does not mean the material is ruined.
How to Thin Thickened DiamondFinish Clear
- Choose the right thinner. Use KBS #1 Thinner (the recommended product) or Xylene. Both have the proper evaporation rate for DiamondFinish Clear.
- Start with a small amount. Pour your thickened DiamondFinish Clear into a separate container and add 5 to 10 percent thinner by volume. Stir thoroughly.
- Test the spray pattern. Spray a test area on scrap material or a masked area. If the spray pattern is still thick or uneven, add thinner in 2-3 percent increments and test again.
- Aim for proper viscosity. The coating should spray smoothly without sputtering, spattering, or leaving thick, uneven coats. It should flow out and level normally.
- Review the application directions. Once thinning is complete, follow the DiamondFinish Clear application directions for the rest of your project.
Thinning Tips and Best Practices
Once you thin DiamondFinish Clear, you can typically do so a few times before the material is no longer usable. However, repeated thinning over time may eventually degrade the coating, so it is best to thin only as much as you need and use that material promptly.
Never mix old and new cans of DiamondFinish Clear. Older cans may have absorbed moisture from the air, which can reduce the pot life of fresh material and create application problems. If you need to thin a large quantity, use a single, well-sealed original can as your source.
Always store DiamondFinish Clear in a cool, dry place after opening. Dispense only what you need into a separate container and seal the original can immediately. Use a plastic zip lock bag between the lid and the can to prevent metal-to-metal contact, which can cause the lid to stick or seal permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thinning DiamondFinish Clear
Can I thin thickened DiamondFinish Clear?
Yes. Under most circumstances you can thin or reduce thickened DiamondFinish Clear using KBS #1 Thinner or Xylene. Thinning brings DiamondFinish Clear back down to a standard spray viscosity by replacing the solvents that have evaporated off during storage.
How much thinner should I add to DiamondFinish Clear?
Start with 5 to 10 percent by volume and test the spray pattern before adding more. Over-thinning can affect film build and gloss, so add thinner in small increments.
What thinner should I use for DiamondFinish Clear?
Use KBS #1 Thinner or Xylene. Both have the proper evaporation rate for DiamondFinish Clear and will bring the coating back to a usable spray viscosity.
How many times can I thin DiamondFinish Clear?
You can typically thin DiamondFinish Clear a few times before the coating is no longer usable. Each thinning replaces lost solvents, but eventually the material may degrade or lose its performance characteristics.
Conclusion
Thickened DiamondFinish Clear is not a loss. A few incremental additions of KBS #1 Thinner or Xylene will bring it back to spray viscosity. Start small, test as you add thinner, and you'll have usable coating again. For full details on application and storage, review the application directions.
