It’s one of the most common questions we get at estimates: should the job be done in latex or oil? For most projects today the answer is latex, but oil-based paint still has its place. Here’s how we decide.
Why latex is the default today
It’s easier on your home and the environment. Latex (water-based) paint has far less odor than oil, which matters on interior jobs where your family is living in the house while we work. Cleanup uses water instead of paint thinner, so there’s no dirty thinner to haul to a hazardous-waste site. (When we do use oil products, disposing of that waste properly is part of our job.)
It moves with your house. This is the big one for exteriors. Siding and trim expand and contract with every swing in temperature, and the Metro East has plenty of those. A quality latex finish stays elastic for years and flexes with the surface. Oil-based paint dries into a hard, more brittle film that tends to crack sooner as the surface moves.
The quality gap has closed. Latex primers and finishes have improved tremendously over the years. Modern premium latex paints are very durable, hold their color and resist mildew.
When oil-based paint still makes sense
- A smoother look. Oil paint levels out better as it dries, so it shows fewer brush marks. Some homeowners still prefer it on cabinetry, doors and fine trim.
- A hard, washable surface. Because oil dries hard, it stands up well to scrubbing on high-wear surfaces.
- Painting over existing oil. Latex doesn’t bond well directly to old oil-based paint. That surface needs proper cleaning, sanding and a bonding primer first, or it needs to be recoated in oil.
Not sure what’s on your walls now?
A simple test: rub a small spot with a cotton ball dampened with rubbing alcohol. If paint comes off on the cotton, it’s latex. If not, it’s likely oil. Or just ask us at your estimate and we will check. Putting the wrong paint over the wrong surface is one of the fastest ways to get peeling.
The bottom line
For most interior walls and nearly all exterior siding and trim, a premium latex paint is the right call. For a glass-smooth finish on trim or cabinets, or when we’re recoating existing oil, oil-based or hybrid enamel products may be the better choice. We’ll recommend the right product for each surface when we give you your free estimate.