- Oil-based paint is used for most industrial applications, from machinery to factory floors. Oil-based paint is overwhelmingly the best choice for metal buildings and exterior metal trim, and for boats and ships because it's much more resistant to corrosion and salt. Directional signs on roads and in parking lots are either oil- or epoxy-based paints because no latex paint has yet been developed withstands high traffic volume. Many restoration specialists believe it is the best choice for historically significant buildings, both for durability and authenticity's sake. When it comes to wood primers, oil-based primers outperform water based ones for adhesion, stain-killing and smoothness. Oil paints also have their adherents in the art world, with some artists preferring the richness of pigment and heavier texture.
- For most painting jobs, latex-based paint is overwhelmingly the best choice. Not only faster, easier and less expensive to use, many high quality latex paints are better than their oil-based counterparts for regular house painting. Back when dangerous ingredients like lead were common in oil paints, they were extremely durable. However, since 1978 the FDA has banned the use of lead and some toxic pigments from household paints. Although still allowed for industrial and roadway paints, changes to make oil-based paint safer has also compromised the quality. Today's latex paints can be every bit as durable, washable and stain-resistant as most oil-based paints for residential and light commercial use.
Comments
jeanjw said
on 6/7/2009 Wow, I never knew until now- - -thanks
paint-it said
on 1/5/2009 Great article. Oil is still the only choice for restoration and high-end woodwork. Hopefully, the latex will continue to be improved and will achieve the same flow qualities before the oil is completely discontinued! 5*
Upon-Request said
on 1/4/2009 Good article - thanks for pointing out the paint differences! :)