Residential Painting Kennett Square, PA: Latex Paint Vs Acrylic Paint
Latex paint and acrylic paint are both water-based paints. They are often interchangeable for residential and commercial painting projects in Kennett Square, PA.
Let us see in more detail the particularities of these two types of paintings, and where each of them excels.
Latex Paint
Latex paint was invented in the early 20th century and originally consisted of natural latex (binder).
Although we continue to call it “latex paint”, this type of paint has evolved and is now manufactured synthetically without the slightest trace of latex. Its composition therefore closely resembles that of acrylic paint.
The benefits of latex paint
• Can be diluted with water (brushes and rollers are easily washed with water)
• Good coverage (covers the original color well)
• Breathable paint (moisture resistant)
• Easy to apply
• Large choice of colors
• Very washable (the color resists rubbing)
• Low VOC (almost odorless)
• Very fast drying
Latex Paint Is Recommended for Indoor Use.
It is especially preferred for humid rooms such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchen.
It is also recommended for painting ceilings since it’s generally duller than acrylic paint, that is, the ceiling will reflect less light and imperfections will be less visible.
Latex paint will generally be more affordable.
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is undoubtedly the most popular paint among professional painters.
It is a quality paint recognized for its excellent adhesion, high washability and absence of odor.
There are several categories of acrylic paints; we will address them in a future post.
The advantages of acrylic paint
• Odorless (almost)
• Fast drying
• Excellent covering power (often only one coat is sufficient)
• Low VOC or no VOC (little or no odor)
• Moisture and water-resistant (certain types of paint only)
• Can be used indoors and outdoors (adapts well to climatic conditions)
• Very adherent (does not easily crack or peel)
• Ease of application
• Great versatility (suitable for all types of surfaces)
• Retains its color (no yellowing)
• Durable (does not peel)
• Very large choice of colors
Only certain types of acrylic paints can be used in rooms with high humidity.
It is typically adherent and lighter than latex paint.
Acrylic paint can be used both indoors and outdoors, on virtually any surface.
The main disadvantage of acrylic paint is its relatively high cost.
However, since acrylic paint offers durability and longevity that goes beyond that of other types of paint, it often turns out to be the best choice in the long run.
Also, a single coat is often enough, you will save in application time and you will not have to buy as many gallons of paint as with less covering paint.
Acrylic latex paint
Acrylic latex paint is the most commonly used type of latex paint.
It is an interior paint with good hiding power, good color retention, and great durability. Paints containing more acrylic have a more resistant finish and an adhesion similar to that of oil paints.
In conclusion, there are endless products of acrylic paints and latex paints.
It is important to ask for guidance from professional painters or a paint retailer in a specialty store, in addition to reading the labels on the paint containers.
If you need help in choosing paints, paint colors and repainting your home, our team at Left Moon Painting can help.
We have years of experience offering residential repainting services in Kennett Square, PA, and West Chester PA.
If you would like to try us, request a FREE estimate below to get started or call us at (484) 757-5295 for more information.