Need advice on air compressor for deck staining - what PSI/CFM for sprayer?

Hey all, first time posting here. I'm building a new cedar deck and about to stain it. I've got a Wagner airless sprayer that needs an air compressor to run. My old pancake compressor just died (RIP). What specs should I be looking for? The sprayer manual says it needs 3-5 CFM at 40 PSI, but I've heard you should oversize. Also considering maybe using it for other projects later - maybe some light nail gun work. Budget around $300-400. Thanks!

Roofing contractor here. For deck staining with a sprayer, you want at least 50% more CFM than the tool requires. That Wagner will bog down if you're right at minimum specs. Look for 6-8 CFM at 40 PSI minimum. Get an oil-lubed twin-stack compressor - they last longer than oil-free. I run a Makita MAC2400 on job sites for trim work and it handles sprayers fine. Around $350. Don't cheap out on the hose either - get a good 3/8" rubber one, not those plastic junkers.

Tool collector chiming in! 😊 I have 7 compressors (don't judge lol). For your budget, the California Air Tools 5510SE is whisper quiet - only 60 decibels! Your neighbors will thank you. It's 5.5 CFM at 40 PSI though, so borderline for your sprayer. But if you're just doing one deck, it might work with breaks. The DeWalt DXCMLA1983056 is 6.5 CFM and often on sale at Tool Discount Club. I have both - the CAT is quieter, DeWalt has more power. Links: [ToolDiscountClub.com/dewalt-compressor] [ToolDiscountClub.com/california-air]

Landscape architect perspective: Consider future use like you mentioned. If you might do framing later, you'll want more like 4-5 CFM at 90 PSI for nail guns. That changes the game. Also think about portability - wheel it around your yard? The Makita Paul mentioned is 85 lbs. The DeWalt Patty linked is 73 lbs with wheels. For just staining, you could probably get away with a smaller unit, but I always say buy for your next project too. My 2 cents!

Wow, thanks everyone! This is super helpful. Paul - good point about oversizing, don't want the sprayer sputtering. Patty - those links are perfect, checking them now. Dave - yeah I might do some fencing next year. Leaning toward the DeWalt for the extra power and wheels. One more Q: Should I get a moisture trap/filter for staining? Heard it helps with finish quality.