Wondering about the difference between latex and acrylic paint? The main difference between the two is their ingredients. Although both are water-based, latex releases a lower amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than acrylic does, making it more suitable for interior use. Conversely, acrylic is more adhesive and elastic than latex. These features allow acrylic to expand and contract with temperature changes and minimize cracking or flaking. For this reason, acrylic is often better for exterior projects than latex is.
However, there are numerous other concerns as to whether you should pick latex or acrylic for your project. The experts at Five Star Painting® have put this guide together to help you choose. Let’s review what each paint is, when to use it, as well as pros and cons.
- What latex paint is and when to use it
- Pros and cons of latex paint
- What acrylic paint is and when to use it
- Pros and cons of acrylic paint
- FAQs about latex vs. acrylic paint
What Latex Paint Is and When to Use It
Latex is a water-based paint that consists of synthetic polymers to create a durable, nontoxic film when the water evaporates. Out of all the paints available, latex emits the lowest amount of (VOCs) — making it safer for indoor use, especially around children and pets.
It also provides smooth, even coverage on furniture, cabinets, and other wooden surfaces because it adheres well to wood and is easy to touch up when necessary.
Latex is usually used for:
- Interior projects
- Concrete
- Ceilings
- Aluminum siding
- Plaster and drywall
- Wood
- Stucco
Pros and Cons of Latex Paint
The fact that latex paint is water-based makes it an excellent choice for nonprofessionals and those learning how to paint. It’s easy to apply, quick to dry, and can be washed out of brushes and rollers with water.
Pros:
- Masks surfaces with just a few coats
- Resists turning yellow for years to come
- Comes in different finishes
- Cleans up easily with soap and water
- More affordable than other interior paint types are
- Dries quickly between coats
- Resists moisture
- Emits little odor and low VOC levels
Cons:
- May expose brush strokes on surfaces
- Doesn’t bind to metal and steel surfaces well
- Can cause grain swelling on painted wood
What Acrylic Paint Is and When to Use It
Acrylic is a type of water-based paint that is made from binders, pigments, and acrylic resin. Unlike latex paint, acrylic has added chemicals to allow it to expand and contract. Because of this, it’s well suited for exterior spaces such as your house siding and trim. It also retains its color and protects the surface it’s painted on.
Additionally, it’s mildew, mold, and water resistant when dry — making it an excellent paint for moisture-prone rooms such as bathrooms.
Acrylic paint is commonly used for:
- Bathrooms
- Cabinets
- Exterior projects
- Metal surfaces
- Interior trim
- Covering rust
- Siding
Benefits and Disadvantages of Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is best for outdoor areas because it can withstand temperature fluctuations and extreme weather (e.g., sun, heat, rain, and snow). However, keep in mind that it creates some levels of VOCs and is more expensive than latex paint.
Pros:
- Helps prevent cracking and peeling, especially when temps change
- Repels mold and mildew
- Contains built-in UV protection
- Consists of a thick, tough film
- Resists water (when dry)
- Adheres extremely well
Cons:
- Costs more than than latex does
- Offers fewer sheen choices as latex does
- Generates moderate VOC levels
- Requires multiple coats
FAQs about Latex vs. Acrylic Paint
Which is more durable: latex or acrylic?
Acrylic is more durable than latex is because of the chemicals added to withstand harsh temperatures.
Can I paint acrylic over latex?
You can usually paint acrylic over latex paint without problems because they are both water-based. Contact a professional painting service, though, to ensure compatibility.
Call Five Star Painting for Assistance
Although the above tips will help you to determine whether to use latex or acrylic, why risk making the wrong choice? Contact your local Five Star Painting specialist for professional guidance on which type of paint would work best for your project. Learn more about our residential and commercial painting services. You can also give us a call orrequest a free estimate onlineto begin your next painting project.
FAQs
In general, any paint labeled “acrylic” has more acrylic polymers than latex paint. Because of this, acrylic paint typically costs more and provides better adhesions, durability, and resiliency. The extra cost isn't worth it for interior drywall, but for kitchen cabinets or outdoor furniture, it makes a lot of sense.
Which is better, acrylic or latex paint? ›
The main difference between the two is their ingredients. Although both are water-based, latex releases a lower amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than acrylic does, making it more suitable for interior use. Conversely, acrylic is more adhesive and elastic than latex.
Why do artists choose not to use acrylic paint? ›
Disadvantages: because acrylic paints dry quickly they cannot be easily blended to create the 'wet in wet' technique that is popular with oil paints. For this reason, a finished acrylic painting can look harsh compared to a finished oil painting.
Do professional painters use acrylic? ›
Famous Painters
Both oil and acrylic paints have been used to create some of the most memorable artistic works in the world.
Why don t artists use latex paint? ›
They use a lot of filler in house paint. Acrylic will work better than latex, latex forms a film that can peal off. I've done set building and used house paint. I would use acrylic enamel primaries, red, yellow and blue.
What is latex paint best for? ›
Latex paint is 100 percent acrylic and water-based, making it an excellent choice to use on exterior aluminum siding. Due to its elasticity, latex paint will not crack, fade, or chalk as easily as oil-based paints and will keep your siding looking its best.
Does acrylic paint last longer than latex? ›
Acrylic paint tends to be longer-wearing than latex, while latex tends to be simpler to apply. And since both paint types are water-based, they're popular for cleanup and safety reasons.
What do you want to avoid when painting with acrylic? ›
Common Acrylic Painting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Over Blending Your Colors. ...
- Using Too Much Paint. ...
- Ignoring Brush Care. ...
- Using Poor-Quality Materials. ...
- Fear of Making Mistakes. ...
- Color Blending and Mixing. ...
- Layering Technique. ...
- Pouring and Dripping Technique.
The binder in oil paint – oil, goes yellow over time, this causes the subtle glow on old master paintings with acrylics they are colourfast, the binder – acrylic polymer doesn't yellow over time. Pro tip: The most likely cause of fading is using pigments that are not lightfast, this is true of oils and acrylics.
What is acrylic paint best used for? ›
Acrylic paint can colour practically anything. It is resilient and flexible and can be applied to all kinds of surfaces. While used by artists on stretched prepared canvas, paper or board, acrylics can also be applied to wood, leather, paper-mache, fabric, cement, glass, brick, pottery – almost any non-greasy surface.
Latex paint isn't as durable as many other types of paint. It's not as resistant to scratches or abrasions as other certain types of paint are. This makes it less ideal for areas prone to wear-and-tear or high traffic, such as kitchens or hallways.
What are the disadvantages of latex paint? ›
Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks when using latex paint. Latex paints are generally less durable than their oil-based counterparts. They tend to fade faster than oil-based paints. As a result, oil-painted surfaces will likely need to be repainted more often over time.
Is latex paint good for canvas painting? ›
Latex paint
House paint is not designed for painting on canvas, and its longevity can vary greatly. Where acrylic and oil paint are designed to last for years, the same cannot be said for house paint, which is designed to last for a few years, but not centuries.
What kind of paint is best for walls? ›
Flat, eggshell and satin paint are best for interior walls, whereas semi-gloss and gloss paint are best for trim and woodwork. Flat paint has a velvety, matte look and is the best choice to hide any wall imperfections. However, it's the least durable choice and doesn't usually stand up well to scrubbing.
Can I use acrylic paint on walls? ›
You can apply acrylic paint for walls both indoors and outdoors. While applying interior wall paint, you can either use distemper, acrylic paint or regular acrylic paint. However, you must remember that you are not required to apply any primer for distemper paint.
Why is acrylic paint the best? ›
Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that allows artists to bring their artistic vision to life. It offers the flexibility to create detailed work, layering, and textured impasto techniques. Not only is acrylic paint less expensive than oil paint, but it also provides great value for your money.
What is acrylic paint used for? ›
Acrylic paint can colour practically anything. It is resilient and flexible and can be applied to all kinds of surfaces. While used by artists on stretched prepared canvas, paper or board, acrylics can also be applied to wood, leather, paper-mache, fabric, cement, glass, brick, pottery – almost any non-greasy surface.
