What Type of Paint is Best for Interior Residential Painting?

If you are looking for a fresh start this year and want to give your home a new look, consider painting the interior. But what type of paint should you use for interior residential painting in Austin TX? There are many different types of paint available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This guide will explain the different types of paint and help you decide which is best for your home.

Types of Interior Paint

Water-based and oil-based paints are the two types of paint available. The pigments in paint are dissolved in the solvent, which evaporates and binds the color to the applied surfaces.

Latex paint is a type of water-based paint that is made with synthetic materials. It is very versatile in use and one of the most popular paint choices for interior residential painting. Latex paint is also low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals commonly found in paint that can be harmful to your health. Because latex paint is low in VOCs, that makes it a safer choice for your home and residential painting needs. It is also a fast-drying paint that is easy to clean simply using soap and water. On the downside, latex paint is generally less durable and more expensive than other paint options. Water-based paint is the least durable because it dries by evaporation, not a chemical reaction. This means that it can be re-activated by water, which can cause it to peel, flake, or crack.

Oil-based paint is another option for interior painting. It is more durable than water-based paint so it is a great choice for high-traffic areas and trim, such as doorways and baseboards. However, oil-based paint contains a higher level of VOCs that are released into the air as paint dries. They are what give the "new paint smell." VOCs can be harmful to your health if not used properly and care is not taken to paint in a well-ventilated area. It takes longer to dry which extends the time needed to complete your home interior painting project. Oil-based paints are more difficult to clean up and require the use of mineral spirits, such as turpentine, or paint thinner, to clean brushes and spills. The benefits of long durability and affordability are often reasons why oil-based paints are preferred.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing Residential Interior Paint

Cheaper paints often have more solvent and less pigment, which means you don't get a solid coat of paint once it dries. This is why you often have to apply multiple coats of cheap paint. In the end, you may spend more money on additional paint needs and you will spend more time completing the project. Price should not be your only consideration when deciding on which paint to choose for interior residential painting in Austin, TX projects.

Depending on what paint is already on your walls, you may need a primer coat before applying the new paint color. To prevent stains, the previous paint color, or other imperfections from showing through, it is always the best option to apply a coat of primer before painting. Primer is less expensive than paint and will help prevent the need for using extra coats of more expensive paint to cover what is already on the walls.

Where to Get Help with Choosing the Best Interior Paint?

If you are unsure of what type of paint to choose for your home, it is best to consult with a professional. A professional painter will be able to assess your needs, help you weigh the pros and cons of your available options, and recommend the best type of paint for your home.

Austin Painting & Cabinets is a professional residential painting company in Austin, Texas, with experienced professional painters who are knowledgeable in the types of paints used in residential painting. Call us today at 512-763-9976 for expert advice and a free consultation. We would be happy to help you choose the best paint for your home and help get the job done.