For the average consumer, the types of paint that exist on the market may not be something you need to know. But for professional painters or homeowners who want to complete DIY projects, understanding the makeup of different types of paint can help them make the best choice.
Applying paint to varying surfaces in different climates can change the way the color or texture of the paint appears. It is important to understand these different types of paint when it comes to the protection and look of your home.
Oil Based Paint
Also known as alkyd, oil paint was usually found in older homes before the knowledge of the dangers of oil paint were known. Most houses built before 1990 have an oil-based paint of some sort. Some oil-based paint is still used today because it withstands dings, scratches, and other wear in high-traffic areas.
The downside of oil paint is that it takes a long time to dry. Professional painters are the best people to handle oil painting projects because they can use proper protection and dispose of the leftover paint in the right way. Oil paint releases fumes while it is curing, so having these in your home for a long time can be harmful. Home paints that are oil-based are more expensive than different types of paint. This is important to keep in mind when planning your remodel.
Latex Paint
One of the most popular paints is latex paints and its subvarieties. Some varieties include latex enamel and acrylic latex. These paints are water-based which makes them easy to clean up and have fewer environmental risks. Latex paints are common for interior projects for their ease of application.
Other benefits of latex paint include:
- Affordable
- Quick drying time
- Requires fewer coats to get a full coverage look
- Available in multiple finishes
- Minimal paint odor and VOCs
- Less likely to yellow over time
One con in using latex paint for home projects is that it can show brush strokes after it drys. This can make your walls, doors, or other projects look unprofessional. Using a roller when painting with latex paint will give you the smoothest finish possible.
Acrylic Paint
This water-based paint is made of pigment, binders, and acrylic resin. These paints are known to expand and contract well during different temperatures and humidity levels, which makes them great for outdoor painting projects. Different types of paint will be able to resist mold or mildew growth when you use them for outside projects.
Acrylic paint is water-resistant which makes it a great paint option for bathrooms, outdoor siding, garages, etc. Acrylic paint adheres well to multiple types of surfaces and is durable for many many years.
Multiple coats of acrylic paint may be needed to achieve your desired result though. Applying multiple coats can cause health concerns with the amount of VOCs that are emitted, so keep this in mind when you are painting indoors.
Spray Paint
Another oil-based paint is spray paint. Most spray paints are not used for large home products because they come in smaller containers and can release volatile chemicals when being sprayed. Some options are coming to the market that are water-based and don’t require painters to wear a respirator.
Most spray paints are used for changing the color of your decor, adding details to an accent wall, or updating patio furniture. It is not recommended to use cans of spray paint for painting your walls or the doors in your home. Not only because of chemicals but also because it takes a large amount of paint to achieve a smooth finish.
Differences Between Interior And Exterior Paints
Using different types of paint for interior and exterior projects will help your home look its best. Using the right paint will help the color withstand the test of time and help prevent the surface from getting scratched. Here are some differences between interior and exterior paint.
Interior paint is designed to last in high-traffic areas of your home. The formula of interior paints doesn’t last well with water, through varying temperatures, or exterior pollutants.
Exterior paint is manufactured to adapt to the seasons so that it can protect your home. Exterior paint will be durable and withstand extreme weather, pollutants, and dents and dings. There are many different types of paint for exterior projects (colors, paint mixtures, finishes, etc.). Painting the outside of your home, sheds, or outdoor furniture requires precision and research to find the best paint for the material as well.
Rosewood Painting
Having quality paint in and around your home will help improve your curb appeal and the value of your home. Rosewood Painting offers home painting, commercial painting, and home remodeling. No matter what project you are looking for, our professional team can help complete it in a timely and efficient manner.
