Comparing Oil & Latex Paint

Latex paints have less of an environmental impact than oil-based paints.

Most interior and exterior house paint is either oil-based or latex-based. There are many differences in the ingredients, the ease of use and the performance of these two types of paint.

Oil Paint

Oil paint is made with pigments--natural or synthetic ingredients that give the paint its color. They also contain a binder, the part that makes the pigment adhere to the surface. Oil paint binders are usually made with petrochemicals and mineral spirits, which are harmful to the environment. Oil-based paint is considered hazardous waste. This paint has a strong odor, and the brushes will only come clean with chemicals.

Latex Paint

The pigments in latex and oil paint are the same, but the binders are different. Latex paint binders are made with 100 percent acrylic or vinyl acrylic and water. Latex paint does not have as strong of an odor as oil-based paint, and cleanup is easier because brushes can be washed with water.

Effects

Oil-based paint is abrasion-resistant and can be applied over dirty or shiny surfaces. However, it is slow-drying and cracks over time. Latex paint can be applied over damp surfaces. It is less likely to yellow or fade, and its flexible properties keep it from cracking.

References

• Northwest Renovation: The Pros and Cons of Latex over Oil-Based Paint
• Painting Key: Oil Based Paint vs. Latex Paint