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).
Oil Based Paint
Advantages Of Oil Based Paint
Dries harder, making it more durable and longer lasting
Will look smoother due to the long dry times(allowing the paint to level out better)
Has better coverage, needing less coats
Superb stain blocking
Side by side comparison oil paint simply looks better than latex
Disadvantages Of Oil Based Paint
Must ventilate – heavy odor
Must use paint thinner to clean up
Yellows over time
Takes a long time to dry
Common Uses Of Oil Paint
Woodwork
Water stains on drywall (for its hide)
Exterior primer
Metal Surfaces
Latex Paint
Advantages Of Latex Paint
Not as thick making it Easier to paint with.
Very little odor
Can be painted over either oil or latex paints.
Better for the environment
Easier to clean up
Disadvantages Of Latex Paint
Generally Less Durable
Less hide for stains
Less evening out = More brush strokes/imperfections
Common Uses Of Latex Paint
Walls / Siding
Ceilings
Decks / Fences
Things To Consider
Oil paint is combustible
Oil paint is a Hazardous material and you must dispose of it correctly
You cannot put oil over latex but you can out latex over oil
Water based paints take shorter time to dry but a longer time to cure
Conclusion
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 a Minneapolis-based serial entrepreneur on a mission to disrupt the painting industry. As the founder of BLUE Painting, he has built the company from the ground up with a vision to set a new standard for residential painting. Known for his strong leadership, Tony attracts top talent who share his commitment to excellence and innovation. His focus on quality, service, and a modernized approach to the industry positions BLUE Painting as a leader in the Twin Cities and beyond.
About Blue Painting
BLUE Painting is a full service residential painting company serving the twin cities and surrounding areas.
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