WATER-BASED PAINTS
The majority of wall paint sold today is water-based, primarily because of its ease of use. If your surface has been previously coated with an oil-based product, be cautious when switching to water-based paint as it may have trouble sticking.

Advantages of water-based paints

• doesn’t require a pre-treatment
• no mildew growth
• low VOCs (low levels of toxic emissions)
• easy cleanup with water
• quick drying
• an elastic, flexible finish resistant to cracking
• can be used on almost all surfaces
• stable color over time, doesn’t yellow or fade in sunlight

• Disadvantages of water-based paints

• don’t tend to be as vivid or rich
• aren’t as long-wearing as oil or urethane-based paints
• can delaminate from walls if dampened

OIL-BASED PAINTS
Oil-based paint can be used on almost all surfaces, and is praised for its high durability and rich finish. Still, be cautious, as oil paint emits strong fumes that can be overwhelming, and the paint cannot be washed with water. Use turpentine to remove unwanted paint from paint brushes.

Advantages of oil-based paints

• attractive gloss
• good for high-moisture rooms (ex. bathroom or kitchen)
• longer dry time (good for making fixes)
• good “leveling” (brush strokes fill themselves in to create a smooth finish)
• hard, durable finish

Disadvantages of oil-based paints

• VOCs can be harmful to breathe in
• messy process
• hard to wash