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Oil vs. Latex Paint
Should I use an oil or latex paint?
Usually, a quality latex or water-based paint will be sufficient to fulfill your painting needs. However, in some circumstances, it may be better to use an oil or alkyd-based paint. Here are a few suggestions and some strengths and weaknesses for both:
Latex
Quality interior latex paints provide better long-term flexibility that is, resistance to cracking and chipping. Latex paints also tend to resist yellowing with age in areas protected from sunlight. They emit fewer odors, clean up with water and are not flammable. Latex paint takes a shorter amount of time to dry than oil paint. Pros- Low odor
- Faster dry time
- Water clean-up
- Long term flexibility
- Non- yellowing
- Not combustible
Cons - Relatively small open-time (amount of time paint can be brushed before it sets)
Oil
Oil-based paints offer superior one-coat hiding and better adhesion to difficult surfaces (such as those not thoroughly cleaned). Oil-based paints allow for greater 'opentime' (or length of time the paint may be brushed before it sets), superior resistance to 'blocking' (or face-to-face sticking) and resistance to abrasion, once cured.
Pros- Hard, durable
- Moisture resistant
- Greater flow and leveling
- Greater open-time
Cons- Yellows with age
- Strong odor
- Solvent Clean-up
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