Like Oil and Water: Latex Paint vs Oil/Alkyd Paint

Oil and water are quintessential opposing forces; so much so, that they're actually referenced in metaphorical cliches about conflicting objects. Not surprisingly then, oil and water are right at the heart of a great debate in exterior house painting: is it better to go with the Oil/Alkyd Paint, which is solvent-based, or the water-based alternative, Latex Paint?

Oil/Alkyd Paint

For many years, painting contractors regularly recommended oil/alkyd paints for exterior house painting projects, mainly because these solvent-based paints displayed a uniformity, durability, and level of adherence that was hard to match with most water-based paints of the past. However, new EPA standards have drastically changed the formula for standard oil/alkyd paints, which previously contained relatively high amounts of organic air pollutants. The new, more environmentally friendly solvent-based paints cost more than their predecessors, while taking longer to apply and to dry.

Latex Paint

Most modern latex paints don't even include the synthetic rubber they were named for, but they are all water-based, and they've been quickly catching up with oil/alkyds for use in quality exterior paint jobs. In fact, while solvent-based paints have suffered from environmental constraints, latex paint has flourished, incorporating new technology to offer a glossier, more fade-resistant finish than ever before, all at a reasonable price. In terms of latex paint options, vinyl-acrylic can work for some low-risk exterior jobs, but your best choice is the more expensive but very versatile 100% acrylic paints. Whether you're dealing with wood, masonry, or vinyl siding, a full acrylic paint can deliver excellent, long-lasting results.

And the winner is. . .

Latex paint! The great debate is over, and water triumphs over oil. . . this time. All economic and environmental signs simply point to water-based paints as the wave of the future for exterior home painting. Now you just need to pick a color!