When you decide to undertake a painting project, one of the important decisions is whether to use oil-based or water-based paint. You need to understand the differences between them so that you can choose the right one for the project you are starting.

The ingredients in the paint have an effect on how it appears and adheres to the surfaces. Continue reading to learn which is best between oil-based and water-based paints.

Pros and Cons of Oil-Based Paints

Oil-based paints are often chosen for exterior painting because they are less susceptible to the weather, humidity, and temperature. They also resist wear and tear, and it is easier to produce a smooth high-gloss finish.

However, they contain chemicals that are released when you paint and you have to use turpentine or mineral spirits to clean them up. They have a strong chemical odor and take longer to dry. They aren’t as resistant to UV rays from the sun, and they will crack and flake over time.

Pros and Cons of Water-Based Paints

Water-based paints have improved over time and they can produce a quality outcome that rivals that of oil-based paints today. One advantage is that they normally do not contain VOCs and they have less odor than oil-based paints. They are easy to clean up and water-based paints dry more quickly.

You have a greater selection of colors, and the paint itself is more tolerant of expansion and contraction of the surface. In addition, it holds up well to the UV rays of the sun.

Water-based paints don’t work as well outdoors in wet climates. When there is a lot of humidity, they may not dry all the way. In addition, the finish isn’t as glossy as an oil-based paint.

Which Is Best?

Oil-based paints and water-based paints are both good in certain circumstances. Take a look at the following situations where oil-based paints are a good choice:

• Baseboards: The baseboards experience a lot of wear and tear, and oil-based paints hold up well to this.
• Trim: Oil-based paints are glossier and they can make the trim stand out.
• Window Frames: Windows painted with oil-based paints usually do not stick when you open and close them.

Water-based paint is a better choice in the following situations:

• Interior Walls: Water-based paints dry more quickly, are easier to clean up, and give off less odor, which makes them a great choice for interior walls.
• Exterior: Water-based paints are more durable in most climates. The colors last longer before the paint fades, and it handles the expansion and contraction of the building materials well.
• Masonry: Water-based paints adhere to masonry such as brick, stone, plaster, and concrete better.

Final Words

When you undertake a painting project you can choose oil-based or water-based paint. There are advantages and disadvantages to each, and what you plan to paint has an impact on your choice.

Choose oil-based paints when you need something more durable or want the trim to stand out. Water-based paints are ideal for your interior walls and most exterior projects.