Water based paint is often referred to as latex paint or acrylic latex paint. It contains a plastic resin that allows it to better adhere to walls. This and the paint pigments are suspended in water. Meanwhile, oil based paint consists of the particles of paint pigments suspended in an oil, which is typically linseed oil. Thus, the primary difference in composition is the added resin in water based paints as well as whether water or oil is used as the solvent. However, these two paints can perform quite differently. With water based vs. oil based paint, which is better? Let’s break down the differences by category.

Cost

One difference you will note is cost. There is typically less of a demand for oil based paint when compared to water based paint. As a result, oil based paint is typically lower in cost. It is important to remember that there are wide ranges of price points within both types though depending on the quality of paint and manufacturer.

Longevity

Oil based paints usually have a higher sheen after the paint is applied. However, these types of paints can fade significantly over time. Meanwhile, water based paints tend to have a lower sheen but generally maintain it for a longer period of time. Thus, water based paints tend to win out in terms of longevity. This is also a reason why water based paints are favorite choices for exterior areas.

Odor

One of the biggest differences between water based and oil based paint that people immediately notice is the odor. While water based paint does have an odor, it is fairly slight. On the other hand, oil based paint has an extensive odor that takes a while to go away. You will want to ensure you use this type in only well ventilated areas.

Environmental Impact

Remember that strong odor from oil based paint? This is because this type of paint releases high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are chemical compounds that can have negative health impacts. Most commonly, people may experience irritation of the eyes or throat and headaches. However, they can cause more serious issues as well. Thus, oil based paint will have a major impact on indoor air quality for about three days until the VOCs dissipate.

Application

Water based paints are difficult to apply in less than ideal weather conditions. Even a little bit of water will thin out the paint (since it absorbs the water). However, oil based paints are largely unaffected by things like extreme temperatures, humidity, and the presence of water (they repel water). However, water based paint has a much quicker drying time. It can be ready for a second coat in only a few hours while oil based paint will need to sit nearly an entire day.

Sunman supplies a wide range of raw materials for use in water based emulsion paints, metal coatings, wood coatings, road marking paints, can&coil coatings, marine coatings and powder coatings. The products inclusive of fillers, resins, thickeners and additives etc.