Which type of paint should I use—oil-based, latex, acrylic?
When planning a painting project, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “Which type of paint should I use—oil-based, latex, or acrylic?” The answer depends on where you’re painting, how durable you need the finish to be, and how much time you want to spend on preparation and drying. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each option so you can make the right choice for your home.
Oil-Based Paint: Durable but Slow-Drying
Oil-based paints have been around for decades and are known for their tough, long-lasting finish. They’re particularly good for trim, doors, and high-traffic areas where durability matters most.
Pros:
Extremely durable and resistant to wear.
Smooth finish that levels out brush strokes.
Great for woodwork and surfaces that get frequent contact.
Cons:
Longer drying time (can take 24 hours or more).
Strong fumes and higher VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Requires mineral spirits or turpentine for cleanup.
Best for: Interior trim, cabinets, doors, and exterior wood where toughness is key.
Latex Paint: The Most Popular Choice
Latex paint is water-based, making it the most commonly used paint for both DIY and professional projects. It’s known for being easy to work with, quick to dry, and environmentally friendly.
Pros:
Fast drying (usually within an hour).
Low VOCs and easy soap-and-water cleanup.
Flexible, so it resists cracking and peeling over time.
Available in a wide range of finishes and colours.
Cons:
Not as durable as oil-based paint on high-touch surfaces.
May require more coats for full coverage.
Best for: Walls, ceilings, and large surfaces where speed and ease of application are important.
Acrylic Paint: Flexible and Weather-Resistant
Acrylic paint is also water-based but has added resins that make it more durable and resistant to weathering compared to standard latex.
Pros:
Strong adhesion and flexibility.
Resistant to fading and cracking, even outdoors.
Low VOCs with easy cleanup.
Cons:
Slightly more expensive than standard latex.
May not level as smoothly as oil-based paint.
Best for: Exterior walls, siding, and surfaces exposed to changing weather conditions.
Key Considerations Before Choosing Paint
Durability: For trim and high-traffic areas, oil-based paints still win. For walls, latex and acrylic are more practical.
Drying Time: If you’re short on time, latex and acrylic dry quickly.
VOC Levels: If you’re concerned about fumes, water-based options (latex and acrylic) are the safest choice.
Interior vs. Exterior: Latex is ideal indoors, acrylic excels outdoors, and oil-based paints are best for heavy-duty finishes.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which type of paint is best. Instead, it depends on your project’s needs. If you need durability, go with oil-based. For everyday walls and ceilings, latex is your go-to. And for exterior projects, acrylic offers the best protection against the elements.
By weighing up durability, drying time, VOCs, and where you’re painting, you’ll be able to choose the perfect paint for a professional-looking, long-lasting finish.