- Latex Paint – Latex paint is the most common type of paint on the market. It cleans up with soap and water, dries quickly, is non-flammable, is less odorous, and allows moisture to evaporate through the paint film, which reduces the likeliness of cracking, peeling, and blistering. Some other benefits of latex paint are that its primary liquid is water and is environmentally friendly. Although there are many benefits involved with using latex paint, it does have some disadvantages as well. The main limitations when using latex paint are its sensitivity to cold and its tendency to show brush marks. The type of binder used in making the latex paint determines its quality. The best possible binder used in water-based paint is 100% acrylic resin. This type is splatter resistant, can be scrubbed, is easy to apply, has great color and sheen retention, and is highly chip resistant.
- Oil-Based Paint – Most professional painters prefer to use this kind of paint. Oil-based paint is especially superior when painting interior wood trim, doors, and cabinets. It is a durable paint that is also stain resistant and dries with less brush marks than water-based paints. Oil-based paint also has its drawbacks though. It has a very strong odor to it, and as a result, this type of paint should be used with proper ventilation. Oil-based paint also dries very slowly, which results in the paint having a tendency to sag if applied to thick, and more coats will be required. The slow drying process also has its advantages though. It enables the paint to flow on the surface, resulting in an exceptionally smooth appearance.
- Specialty House Paints
- Elastomeric Paint - This is a very thick paint that can stretch with the surface and bridge over small cracks. Especially useful when working with cracked masonry, pools, and other surfaces which expand/contract regularly.
- Epoxy Paint – Although this is primarily an interior paint, it is the most durable stuff out there. It is a tough two-component paint that is also chemical resistant. Its most common uses are on garage floors and metal surfaces, but it can be used just about anywhere.
- Urethane Paint – Generally a very lustrous paint that also comes with all of the benefits of an oil-based paint. Urethane paints are also very tough and scratch resistant. They are most commonly used on wood flooring, furniture and crafts.
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