Latex vs. Oil Paint: Which One Should I Use for Interior Paint?

Rohan Mathew

Updated on:

Are you getting ready for an interior painting project? If so, you’ve probably started searching through popular paint colors, inspiration boards, and materials lists to prepare.

But what about using latex vs oil paint?

Both types can deliver outstanding results, and which is right for your space depends on a wide variety of factors. Keep reading to learn more, and decide what paint type is perfect for you!

Benefits of Latex Paint

High-quality interior latex paints can provide better long-term flexibility than oil paint, delivering years of coverage without cracking and chipping. Latex paints are also known to resist yellowing with age, so long as they are protected from sunlight.

Other big benefits of using a latex-based paint include fewer odors during prep and application, simple cleanup with soap and warm water, and easy storage – as latex paints are not flammable. Latex paint also takes a much shorter amount of time to dry than its oil-based counterpart. So, it’s ideal for a quick weekend painting project.

The only real drawback to using latex paint is its fast drying time. You’ll have to work quickly if you want to apply smooth, even coats. Otherwise, you could wind up with a chunky or overly textured surface. 

If you’re worried about an easy application process and achieving a perfectly smooth coat, you might want to hire industrial painters to help! These professionals work quickly and efficiently, guaranteeing perfectly even coverage, even on tricky surfaces!

Click here – Harleen Sethi Age, Height, Wiki, Father, Boyfriend, Movies

Benefits of Oil Paint

Oil-based paints, on the other hand, can offer superior one-coat coverage and better adhesion to difficult surfaces. This makes them especially useful for hard to clean and prep areas.

Oil paints also allow for greater open-time. This refers to the length of time the paint can sit in its can or tray, and be brushed onto your surface before it sets. Its thick texture also provides exceptional flow and leveling or finish smoothness, and superior abrasion resistance, once cured.

The biggest challenges to using oil paint are its strong odor during application, and a higher level of VOCs – short for volatile organic compounds. These can cause breathing difficulties and dizziness, especially in people with asthma and other respiratory conditions. It’s also important to note that you’ll need a chemical solvent like paint thinner or mineral spirits for cleanup.

You’ll also want to keep in mind that some oil-based paints may begin to yellow with age, especially when exposed to UV rays. 

Click here – Special Tips for Buying the Best Toner Cartridges

Latex vs Oil Paint – Shop Like a Pro

Now that you know a bit more about latex vs oil paint, you’re probably excited to get shopping. Congratulations! With this article as your guide, you’re ready to purchase paint like a pro. 

If you enjoyed this article, don’t miss out on the rest of our content. Our blog posts are updated daily and packed with hot tips and advice on tech, health, travel, lifestyle, and more!