When selecting paints for your house painting project you have many options. To make things even harder you must first figure out which type you should go with, oil based paint or latex paint. In this article we will compare and contrast the two so you can easily find the right choice for your project.
All paint is made up of three components: a pigment, a binder, and a vehicle. The pigment is finely ground substance that comes up with the color. The binder is what determines the paint’s performance, including adhesion, washability, sheen, and fade resistance.
In oil based paints the binder is made from various oil derivatives such as linseed oil, tung oil, and soya oil. In latex paint, the binder is made from an acrylic material. Different types of binders provide different performance characteristics. A vehicle is simply a solvent used to get the paint from the can to the surface. Oil based paints use a paint thinner as a vehicle and latex uses water(which is why people will call it water based paint).
When it comes to specific situations oil based paint is still superior to latex paint, due to it’s durability and self leveling characteristics. But, if it’s not absolutely necessary for your specific application, latex paint is overall a better choice. With latex paint you can still get a very durable product that is less toxic, has less fumes, and far easier to clean up.
Do you prefer oil over latex or vise versa? Tell us why below!
Tony Nordeen is the CEO and Co-Founder of BLUE Painting, a full service house painting company offering a range of Interior and Exterior painting services. From room painting to kitchen cabinet painting, from popcorn ceiling removal to full exterior house painting. If you are interested in getting a 100% Free Estimate click here or email hello@bluepaintingco.com.
BLUE Painting is a full service residential painting company serving the twin cities and surrounding areas.
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