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Latex Vs Oil-based paints, know the difference!

Updated: May 29, 2022


Latex Vs Oil-based paints knowing the difference

Painting is the quickest, cheapest, and one of the most effective home improvement methods. But you've probably heard some good and bad about oil-based paint and latex paint. But you want to know more so you understand which to use for your house painting project. So here we provide the guide about latex vs oil-based paints knowing the difference and understand what is the best


So, come along.


Oil-based paint


Oil-based paint is the most durable of the two but takes longer to dry. The pigments (what's left on your wall after the paint dries) are suspended in alkyd or linseed oils, known as the binding agent. It is this binder that primarily differentiates oil-based paint from latex paint. It's thicker and therefore more difficult to spread around, but it's best for painting trim because trim takes up more abuse than walls. It's also widely used for painting metals and wood.


Despite being the most durable, oil-based paint is not a good choice for house painting and furnishings because of its toxic, unbreathable smell.


Latex paint


Latex or acrylic paint (also called water-based paint) has acrylic as the binder in which the pigment and resins are suspended. It dries more quickly and is more easily workable due to its thinness. Although it's not as durable as oil-based paint, it's best for general painting projects like interior, exterior, ceiling, etc.


Quick facts on differences between latex and oil-based paints


Composition

Latex paint is water-based, while oil-based paint is as the name suggests.