Learn the differences between oil-based paint and water-based paint to make an informed choice for your next home project.
Choosing the wrong one could lead to a much longerwait time between coats.
(L) Adam Albright, (R)Aleksandr Zubkov
What Is Oil-Based Paint?
Credit:(L) Adam Albright, (R)Aleksandr Zubkov
Oil-based paint consists of pigments suspended in oil.
Other options include walnut and safflower oils.
What Is Water-Based Paint?
Water-based paint consists of pigments and binders suspended in water.
When dry, water-based paint has a duller sheen than oil-based paint.
While oil-based paint resists fading longer than water-based paint, it tends to yellow as it ages.
This is noticeable primarily in bright white paint.
Oil-based paint is a better option for surfaces that see a lot of wear and tear.
For this reason,oil-based paint is often used for kitchenandbathroom applications.
To add durability to water-based paint in high-moisture environments, cover the final coat with a protective clear coat.
Longevity
Oil-based paint typicallylasts longerthan water-based paint due to its higher durability and resistance to fading.
Oil-based paint must be cleaned up with solvents such as turpentine, mineral spirits, and paint thinner.
Do you have oil-based paint on your skin?
Use mineral oil or vegetable oil to remove the paint.
Adding an abrasive like salt or sugar can help remove stubborn oil-based paint without harming your skin.
Sometimes, cleaning products can cause more harm than good and damage the surface.
To avoid this fate, properly mask the surroundings using drop cloths and tape.
Ensure the surface is clean, oil-free, and totally dry before painting.
Always apply paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
When necessary, use the appropriate primer to ready the surface for paint.
