Water-Based vs. Oil-Based Paint

The Painted Horse • March 25, 2024

After a long Kentucky winter, you should tackle a few home-improvement projects. You could lay a new patio, build a fence, or install new flooring. One practical and inexpensive way to upgrade your property is by painting. Like any project, its success relies on the products you use. Before you begin an interior or exterior paint job, you should understand the differences between water- and oil-based paints to select the best type suited for your selected surface.

Someone painting the wooden exterior of their house near Lexington, Kentucky (KY)

Our team at The Painted Horse will discuss the differences between water- and oil-based paints regarding uses, cost, durability, and application. We are always here to assist you.

Water- or Oil-Based Paint: Which Should You Use?

Uses

  • Water-based paint is the best option for painting an exterior surface. The water makes it easier to apply, making it perfect for outdoor surfaces that are usually rough and difficult to cover.
  • When it comes to interior walls, water-based is the answer. Oil-based products have a significant odor and omit dangerous VOCs.
  • On the other hand, if you are painting trim, baseboards, doors, windows, and cabinets, oil-based is better suited. These surfaces take a lot of wear and tear, so they need durable paint.
  • For masonry, use water-based. It has better adherence and typically lasts longer.

Cost

If the surface you are painting can take both water and oil-based paint and you want to save on cost, then oil-based is your answer. It is typically less expensive than water-based. However, it’s important to note that if your surface requires a water-based, then plan on spending a little more.

Durability

An oil-based paint dries into a rigid surface, offering superior protection and longevity. Water-based paint can sometimes rub off certain surfaces, making them unsuitable for high-traffic areas. On the other hand, water-based paint might have less of a sheen but tends to keep it longer.

Application

When applying exterior paint, you always need to consider weather conditions. Oil-based paints are unaffected by extreme temperatures and humidity, and they repel water as well. Water-based paints dry more quickly but do not apply well in challenged weather conditions.

Finally, Select Your Paint

Now that you better understand the differences between water and oil-based paints, it’s time to select the paint best suited for your project. The Painted Horse is proud to carry a variety of exterior and interior paint in both water- and oil-based forms.

Contact Us for Benjamin Moore Paint Near Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky

At The Painted Horse, we have everything you need for your next spring paint project. We proudly carry the full line of Benjamin Moore paint, designer wallpaper, and high-quality window treatments. Contact us or stop by one of our showrooms. Our team of experts is excited to meet you and listen to your décor ideas. We want to assist you every step of the way.

We are honored to serve the greater Lexington, Kentucky, areas, including Georgetown, Richmond, Frankfort, and Paris, Kentucky.

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