Difference between Oil Paint & Latex Paint

You are probably aware of the fact that there are two different kinds of paint even if you have only a passing familiarity with paint. These two kinds are oil-based paint and water-based paint, also known as latex or acrylic-based paint. Now if you are wondering how to decide between latex vs. oil paint exterior for your home then keep reading.

History of Oil vs. Latex Paint

Oil-based paints were popular for home painting for many years especially from the 1920s to the 1960s. Oil-based paint leveled beautifully and was highly durable, covered in fewer coats and was considered a miraculous innovation in those years. Whereas the latex-based paints arrived after World War II and they quickly began gaining popularity because they were more environment and user friendly.
Latex-based paint is now simply the leading choice when it comes to painting because manufacturers of oil-based paints did little to improve their eco-friendliness. Oil paints are responsible for massive amounts of pollution. In fact, in many countries oil paints have been outlawed. Although there are still some primers which are oil-based without a latex alternative. In addition, oil-based paints to do not meet the low VOC requirements for residential paints. VOCs are volatile organic compounds which are found in many chemical formulations, especially paint, and which can be harmful to human beings and to nature.

Advantages of Oil-Based Paint vs. Water-Based Paint

Oil based paints naturally had a lot going for them. As mentioned above, oil paints are great at adhering to surfaces with harder finishes and, better leveling. They tend to have a more natural look as compared to some latex-based paints as well.
However, water-based paints compensate for these in many ways. The most important advantage of latex over oil paint is they last longer. You will notice less color fade with latex paints. Another advantage is acrylic-based paints are mildew-resistant. Latex paints are much better for you and your surroundings because they have low levels of VOCs. They emit less harmful fumes and cause less overall damage to the environment.
There are methods to make latex-based paints similar to oil-based paints in other areas like adhesion-friendly primers and sandpapering surfaces before painting to improve adhesion. Latex paints manufacturers are continuously improving in terms of hardness. Oil-based paints may be phased out altogether as environmental regulations get stricter.

 The Best Latex-Based Paint for Your Home

Pro Painters Sydney takes pride in itself on using only the finest latex based paints for your home, from trusted names in paint. If you need professional house painting in Sydney area, contact Pro Painters Sydney at 0403 360 662 for a free estimate.