FAQs

Below are a list of frequently asked questions about the Solvable product line.

What is the difference between Solvable Lacquer Thinner and Solvable Paint Thinner? Can they both be used for thinning oil coatings?

Solvable Lacquer Thinner is required for thinning lacquers and automotive paints while Solvable Paint Thinner is optimal for thinning oil-based paints and coatings. Although the products are both solvents, Solvable Lacquer Thinner is not recommended for architectural oil-based paints and is more flammable than Paint Thinner.

What is the difference between Solvable Mineral Spirits and Solvable Paint Thinner? What other names is it known by?

Solvable Mineral Spirits have fewer aromatic solvents while Solvable Paint Thinner contains a higher concentration. Both are petroleum distillates and are generally interchangeable. Solvable Mineral Spirits and Solvable Paint Thinner have the same uses they both function as a cleaner, degreaser and have the ability to thin and improve flow.

I can't notice a difference between the odour of Solvable Paint Thinner and Low Odour Paint Thinner. What is the difference between the two products?

Solvable Paint Thinner does have a different odour than Solvable Low Odour Paint Thinner because of its composition. The composition of Solvable Low Odour Paint Thinner has less aromatics, therefore very little odour making it better suited for indoor use.

Is Paint Thinner incompatible with some materials, like plastics?

Solvable brand Paint Thinner is safe for use on plastics, metals, concrete, and wood, including surfaces that are bare, painted, stained or treated. However it is not recommended for use on some soft plastics, stucco, asphalt, plaster, brick and cinderblock. Solvable Paint Thinner also tends to soften rubber and plastics. Make sure to test on a small inconspicuous or hidden area for colourfastness.

Can I use Solvable Paint Thinner indoors? Are the fumes toxic?

Yes, Solvable Paint Thinner is most often used indoors. Solvable Paint Thinner is a volatile material and will evaporate into the air much faster than water, that is why it is recommended to have good ventilation – open windows and fans because this will prevent the buildup of vapours. For indoor use specifically we recommend Solvable Low Odour Paint Thinner. To avoid breathing in the fumes, wear a vapour mask. Under normal use and good ventilation, the level of fumes will not be high enough to be toxic. Only if fumes are allowed to concentrate and become excessive can they become harmful.

I'm looking for an SDS for Solvable Paint Thinner on your website but I get many different records for the same product. Which SDS do I use?

All SDS for Solvable Paint Thinner are the same. The difference is the “Associated Product’s Item Code” number. In general the last number indicates the size of the container of the product. For example, the SDS for Solvable Paint Thinner 53-321 is for a 946 ml bottle; 53-324 is for the 3.78 L Solvable Paint Thinner. The rest of the information on both SDSs is identical.

Can I use Solvable Paint Thinner as a degreaser?

Solvable Paint Thinner is an excellent degreaser for use on most metals, including automotive and industrial, and as a pre-treatment for gluing. Use our selector tool to see if it works on the desired surface.

Can Solvable Paint Thinner be used to clean furniture?

Yes. Solvable Paint Thinner, in addition to its many other applications, is safe to use on most wooden surfaces. Due to the fact that furniture has many different finishes, from antique polishes to modern plastic coatings, it is a good idea to pre-test in a hidden area first.

Can I use Solvable Paint Thinner or Mineral Spirits over a large floor surface?

No, they are meant to spot clean small floor surfaces only. Make sure to always test on an inconspicuous or hidden area for colourfastness beforehand. Once applied rinse the treated area with soap and water and ensure floor is fully dry before walking to avoid slick surfaces.

Is there a difference between Methyl Hydrate, and Methanol?

There is no difference between these products; it is just a different name for the same thing.

Is there a difference between Denatured Alcohol and Methyl Hydrate, or are they the same?

They are not the same, but in most workshop applications either one can be used. Check to see if the manufacturer specifies one in particular and follow the recommendation.

Where can I use Solvable Methyl Hydrate?

Solvable Methyl Hydrate is used as a fondue fuel, shellac thinner, gas line antifreeze, and, when mixed with water it’s a powerful window cleaner.

What can I use Solvable Acetone for?

Acetone is useful to thin certain coatings, remove and thin epoxies, glue and fibreglass. Solvable brand Acetone is highly flammable and is not for use in the presence of open flames or sparks. Smoking during use is dangerous.

Can I use Solvable Acetone in place of Solvable Methyl Hydrate?

No, the substitution of Solvable Acetone for Solvable Methyl Hydrate is not recommended, as Acetone is highly flammable. Acetone should never be used as a fuel.

Tips for Finding MSDS

  1. Have the item # handy before starting the MSDS search
  2. Use the link below to access our MSDS database portal
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  4. Type item # in the Product Code box and press search (XX-XXXX)
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