Oil-Based vs Water-Based Paint: Pros and Cons
New paint jobs are an easy way to transform one room or your whole house. But when you’re planning your project, how do you choose between oil-based vs water-based paint? Each type of paint consists of different ingredients and has advantages and disadvantages.
Hiring the right professional painter is as important as using the right paint. Wiese Painting Contractors is a family business of house painters in Tucson, AZ. Our in-depth knowledge and professional attitude set the tone for every project. Call 520-327-3200 for a quote, and keep reading to learn everything you need to know about oil-based paint and water-based paint.
Pros of Oil-Based Paint
Oil-based paints contain oils that produce a high-coverage and durable product. Oil-based primers lay the foundation in heavy-use areas like floors and baseboards. They can create a variety of smooth, high-gloss finishes that leave few brush strokes.
Due to high coverage, one coat is enough to cover a surface with your desired color. This durable paint is less vulnerable to environmental factors such as heat and moisture. Oil paint is a reliable option for a variety of projects.
Cons of Oil-Based Paint
Oil-based paint releases hazardous VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air during the painting process. Additionally, removing it requires a specific paint remover that contains mineral spirits. These paint strippers have an intense smell that can be hazardous, so you should always air out the space during and after you apply oil-based paint or paint stripper.
Poor UV resistance causes oil-based paint to turn yellow and crack over time. When this happens, it needs stripping and repainting to look new again. When it comes to upkeep and comparing oil-based vs water-based paint, water-based may be the better option.
Pros of Water-Based Paint
Water-based paints, also known as latex paints, are less expensive than oil-based paints. Their light coverage allows them to dry fast and apply many coats. The high UV resistance of water-based paint means they won’t crack or fade in the sun.
Additionally, water-based paints contain reduced, if not zero, amounts of VOCs. Short drying times and no chemical odors make them ideal for indoor applications.
Cons of Water-Based Paint
Water-based paint struggles to dry in a moist environment. It is prone to chipping and not as durable as oil-based paint. Low durability makes it a poor choice for high-traffic areas.
To use water-based paint, you may need to apply a primer and many coats to paint certain surfaces. Water-based paint is thin and takes several coats to cover surfaces such as wood or concrete. It also has difficulty sticking to smooth surfaces like fine-sanded wood or metal.
The Next Step
A professional will help you decide whether to use oil-based vs water-based paint. We know how to analyze your project to find the best route. When you call the professionals at Wiese Painting Contractors today, you choose the best painters in Tucson. It can be difficult to find the best route for a project and gather the resources it needs. Read our guide on painting stucco or visit our website to find more resources for your next project.
