Few projects can drastically change the look and feel of a room like a new paint job so it’s no surprise that many people spend hours choosing the right paint color. There’s more to paint than color, though. Learning the differences in paint type, whether it’s using latex (water-soluble) or oil-based paint, can save time and money.

Latex (Water-Soluble) versus Oil-Based Paints

Latex paints have a water-soluble base and are built on vinyl and acrylics. Their name is derived from the rubber base they once possessed, but no longer use. Those who favor latex over oil-based paints tend to feel they’re easier to apply and work better. Since they are water-based, dry quickly, are not flammable, are low in odor and cleaning is easy since mild soap and water usually does the trick. Latex paint is resistant to cracking and chipping and resistant to yellowing.  These paints can be used for general interior painting projects like walls and ceilings, as well as exterior spaces.

For areas that get dinged up more often or high-traffic areas, like trim, oil-based paint can be considered more durable than water-based. They’re thicker, which means often all it takes is one coat, and take longer to dry, which isn’t necessarily bad since you’ll have more time to work with the material.  Oil-based paint is moisture-resistant, and users love the way it flows when it’s applied, as it allows for a smoother finish. Since oil-based paints are made with synthetic or natural oils, they sometimes emit stronger odors and yellow with age.

Clean-up requires a solvent as simple soap and water won’t work.

Once you decide which type of paint is the right fit for you, then you can focus on the finish, which can range from matte to gloss.

Choosing the Right Primer

Another important consideration after deciding which paint is best for a project is primer. Any unfinished wall should get a coat of primer and that coat will depend on the type of paint you choose. As one might imagine, a latex-based primer should precede a latex paint application while an oil-based primer works better with oil-based paints.

Proper Disposal

If you have extra paint and would like to save it for things like touch-ups or small projects, proper storage will help your water-based latex paint last for years, according to Consumer Reports. If you’re not interested in keeping any leftover paint, consider donating your paint to a local charity or school or Habit for Humanity ReStore so it can be put to good use.

Otherwise, proper disposal of any type of paint, whether it’s latex or oil-based, depends on where you live. In most parts of the country, latex paint can be disposed in the trash once it’s hardened or you can return it to a home improvement store to be recycled. Some municipalities recommend you bring it to a recycling center where there may be a fee to recycle. Oil-based paints are considered hazardous waste and must be taken to your local recycling or hazardous waste management center so it can be safely disposed.

Choosing paint for your project can be fun. Keeping in mind some basics will help you choose the right type of paint that will go a long way in making sure your paint color lasts.