Painting 101

The main question that haunts first-time painters is whether to go with oil or latex? There are certainly advantages and disadvantages to both types of paint, and one is always a better choice depending on the job. Here we will go through the pros and cons of using oil-based and latex paint, as well as what type of paint brush to use for different painting jobs in your house. The facts below will give you a better idea of which product to use for your project and if you are still unclear, seek the advice of professionals at a paint or decor store near you.

Let's begin with oil-based paints. The advantages are that it goes on smoother and covers more evenly in one coat than latex. As the paint dries it shrinks less, meaning you will have a more flawless and true coverage. Oil also holds up well in high-traffic or heavily used areas and rooms in your home, making the job last a lot longer. This may be important for many real estate renovations, especially if you are renting out to students who put serious strain on the home!

Some of the disadvantages of working with oil-based paints are that it is more likely to fade and yellow or sometimes even crack over time. The fumes that are emitted by this type of paint are quite strong and can be overwhelming, so be sure to work in a ventilated area if you go the oil route. Clean up is also much tougher when working with oil-based paints, and you must use a heavy solvent such as turpentine or mineral spirits to get the paint off of the brushes as well as your body. Working with these harsh chemicals is dangerous and you must be careful to dispose of them properly and safely.

There are other important considerations when working with oils. They should never under any circumstances be poured down the drain, and if you are unsure how to dispose of them, look in the government pages for more information. Paint can ruin drains, countertops and kitchen disposals, and that is the last thing you want to deal with in your life.

Working with latex (water-based) paint has many advantages. It does not fade or turn a yellow shade over time no matter how old it gets. The fumes are much less than oil and the ingredients are far better for the environment. Latex paint also dries faster, making for a speedier task time and it is much easier to clean up, requiring only simple soap and water. The trend is also that latex is more widely available than oil based paints, and is available in every single color you can imagine! You also have a great many options as far as faux finishes and decorative textures. With latex you can tackle almost any decorative finish for your office makeover!

Be sure to buy the right paint brush or roller for the task. There are so many different types of brushes in a variety of fibers, sizes and shapes that are each specific to different types of jobs. Ask your painting professional which type of roller or brush is right for your task and this will allow you to get the job done quickly, so you can get back to your profession! With the right tools and paint, you can get the job done right and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself!