Colour Confidential offers this explanation of the differences between latex-based and oil-based paints.

Paint Types

All paints essentially fall under two categories: oil-based paint (alkyd resin base thinned with mineral spirits) or latex-based paint (water thinned). Ironically neither latex based paint nor oil based paint contain latex or oil.

Latex Paint - Also Called Water-Based Paint
You can use water-based latex paint in almost any application in the home, from exterior paint and trim, to interior walls and woodwork. Latex paint has fewer odors from VOC (volatile organic compounds) than Alkyd paint and is the most common type of paint for home use, for several reasons:

  • It can be cleaned up with soap and water
  • It is more environmentally friendly
  • Excellent performance
  • It is flexible and withstands movement
  • It can prevent mildew and moisture
  • It dries quickly
  • There are a broad selection of colors and sheens


Oil-Based Paint - Also Called Alkyd Based Paint
Alkyd paints are no longer commonly used in home painting applications, mainly because the odor during drying is intensive since it gives off high VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Other disadvantages to oil-based paints are:

  • They require chemical solvent clean up using mineral spirits (paint thinner)
  • They are not environmentally friendly
  • Drying times are much longer
  • They are messy to clean up when mistakes are made
  • They are slightly more expensive than latex paints
     

In the past, these paints were standard for bathrooms and kitchens since they were easy to scrub and were more durable than the early latex paints. This is no longer true and now many latex paints equal or even outperform alkyd based paints. When painting high mess areas such as bathroom and kitchens, look for latex paints that are labelled specifically for "Interior Kitchen and Bath".

Paint Buying Tip
One of the most important tips is to buy the best paint you can afford, in order to avoid having to paint more than twice. High quality paint manufacturers are the best bet.

Planning a paint job? Check out our Colour Confidential Paint Calculator!