Difference between Water based and Oil Based Paint
Our clients commonly ask questions like: “What are the differences between oil and water-based paint?” Alternatively, “What paint should we use in our house, water or oil based paint?”
We would like to share a bit of information that we hope that you find useful regarding the differences between these two types of paint. Both materials have their respective uses, and both types of paint have their pros and cons as well.
Which paint that you may decide to use will depend strongly on whether you are painting walls or furniture for example. On whether you are painting on the exterior or the interior of your home is an important factor to consider as well. Another thing to consider is whether you are using a professional painting company like Genesis Pro Painting & Restoration Inc. or if you are tackling a DIY project.
The subject on which paints to use on what surface can be a whole article by itself. We will probably share our thoughts about that whole subject at a later date, for now, we are just going to cover the differences between the two types of paint.
| Water Based Paint | Oil Based Paint | |
| Appearance | Water based paint does not have a shiny coating. It may require multiple coats of paint to achieve a level finish. The matte finish does, however, hide defects well. | Oil paint is very shiny. Often referred to as “high gloss” paint, oil based paint does not hide defects very effectively. |
| Endurance / Durability | Latex paints stand up well without cracking and do not turn yellow over time. Latex paint resists cracking. | Turns yellow over time. Can crack and chip and lift off of the surface. Oil paint does however usually cover the surface in one coat. |
| Drying time | 4-6 hours of drying time is usually enough for latex paints. Water based paint will dry much faster than Oil Based Paint. | Can take 6-8 hours to dry to the touch, and you may have to wait up to 24 hours to apply a second coat of paint. |
| Eco-Friendliness | Water based paint contains much less Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s). Better for use by people with sensitive sinuses. | Oil based paint contains much more VOC’s, thus the strong chemical like odors that require much more ventilation. |
| Cleanup | Water based paint can be cleaned up quite easily with soap and water. | Oil based paint will require harsh chemicals like Mineral Spirits to clean up. |
In conclusion, water based paints emit much fewer vapors and is much more ideal for indoor use. Most people love the way that the matte finish of flat paint tends to hide defects better, although Oil Based Paint is still commonly used as an accent, where it is desirable to have a glossy finish.
Genesis Pro Painters would be happy to quote your next job for you, we have an excellent reputation and work diligently to meet your needs.
We hope that you found this post to be useful, thank you for visiting our website.
