Not All Paint Is Created Equal
Paint is paint, right? Not true. There are various types of primers and paints and they can be used to their best effect when you understand the difference.
Basically, there’s oil-based paint versus water-based paint; each has different properties and uses. In some states, the use of oil-based paint has been banned due to the level of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), but it hasn’t been removed from use in all areas. Oil-based paint takes longer to dry, has a stronger odor, and requires more harsh cleaners, such as turpentine or mineral spirits to remove. Once it’s on the wall or another surface, there are a few disadvantages. It tends to become brittle and could crack and peel. It’s also susceptible to fading and becoming chalky when exposed to prolonged periods of sunlight. On the positive side, oil-based paint is less sensitive to environmental elements such as water and humidity, takes abuse better, and looks good longer.
Water-based paint, also referred to as latex or acrylic pain, cleans up with soap and water and is gentler on the environment. Water-based paint comes in a larger variety of colors than oil, is chip-resistant, and can achieve a high gloss finish. It has become the industry-standard but it does have a few drawbacks. Water-based paint is more difficult to dry in humid climates, and doesn’t take the punishment of heavy traffic as well as oil-based paint. One option that has the benefits of water-based paint and the lasting power of oil-based paint is acrylic enamel. It’s not a mixture of oil and water-based paint as it uses acrylic as the binding agent.
There are also specialty paints for difficult areas with properties such as being flame retardant, mold and mildew resistant, and resistant to condensation. When hiring a professional, ask what type of paint they use and discuss the pros and cons of each. University Painters always use quality materials and are experts in their field. You can count on them to help you make the best choices for your home inside and out. Visit www.universitypainters.com or call 800-390-4848 for a free consultation.