Painter in Etobicoke: Oil-Based Paint Versus Water-Based Paint

When an interior or exterior house upgrade is necessary, most homeowners choose a fresh coat of paint because it is relatively inexpensive. As property owners review their choices of paints, painters in Etobicoke want them to know the differences between oil- and water-based options.

Each paint variety has benefits, but each also has specific uses. A paint selection can have environmental and public health consequences. Therefore, choosing oil- or water-based paint goes beyond colour and finish selection.

Difference Between Oil-Based and Water-Based Paint

Oil-based paints release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) as they dry. The compounds are substantive contributors to ground-level ozone and smog creation.

To combat rising ozone levels, the EPA and other governmental agencies introduced legislation to limit VOC amounts in commercial and household products, including paints. Many regions eliminated solvent-based and alkyd paints, which are oil-based.

A growing number of professional painters switched from oil-based to water-based paints to help combat VOCs. While oil-based paints are still in use, most painters limit that use to only situations that require it.

Water-based paints are gentler on the environment, containing low levels of or zero VOCs. Technological advancements in the industry mean water-based paints are more durable than before, allowing for their use in commercial and industrial applications.

Water-based options also dry quicker and provide easier cleaning of brushes. Oil-based paints require turpentine or mineral spirits to remove or clean from brushes, but water-based paints need only soap and water.

Pros and Cons of Each Type

Whether looking for an interior or exterior painting service, a homeowner must determine which paint type is best for a project. Professional painters can help owners weigh the pros and cons of each paint.

Oil-based paints are durable and less susceptible to temperature and humidity changes, meaning the paint is suitable for most climate conditions. Also, oil paints produce a smooth, high-gloss finish.

Despite the benefits, oil-based paints contain higher VOC levels and require a more challenging cleanup. These paints also produce a chemical odour and need long drying times. Finally, the paints are more brittle over time and fade when exposed to too much sunlight.

Alternatively, water-based paints may contain zero VOCs and produce less odour. The paints dry quickly with a hassle-free cleanup. Also, water-based options are more flexible to surface movement, meaning less cracking. Finally, the paint can handle UV exposure.

Unfortunately, water-based paints can not achieve the same polished appearance as oils. Also, the paint can chip easily and is unsuitable for heavy wear-and-tear areas. People may also want to avoid the paint if they live in wet and humid climates because it affects drying and curing time.

Best Type for Your Home

Homeowners can talk to a handyman near me about the best ways to use each paint type, but each type has its place in a painting project. For instance, oil-based paint is ideal for baseboards, window frames, and trim work.

Baseboards receive a lot of abuse in the average household. From vacuum dings to tennis shoe scuff marks, oil paints can protect the trim.

With window frames and other trim, oil-based paints provide an ideal finish. The finish allows windows to open and close without sticking, providing a superior surface finish.

Water-based paints are excellent options for interior and exterior walls, including masonry. The rapid drying time of water-based options allows painters to move through a project without delay. Also, water-based paint offers superior fade resistance. Finally, water-based options are better and healthier for houses because of fewer VOCs.

Choosing a house paint is about more than colour and finish. Property owners must weigh the overall impact of their selection. Contact Handyman Connection to get in touch with a professional painter in Etobicoke who can answer your questions and provide an estimate.