Before painting
, check which type of paint is already on the surface.
Before painting the inside or outside of your home, determine whether the original paint was oil-based or latex paint, because this can affect which type of paint you should apply.
Latex Paint
Latex paint is a polymer paint, in which tiny particles of paint pigment are dissolved and suspended in water. Because it is water based, latex paint cracks or flakes off when subjected to below freezing temperatures, according to the Natural Handyman website. It also may not adhere when applied over high-gloss finishes, specialized textures or oil-based paints.
Oil-Based Paint
The paint pigments in oil-based paints are suspended in a combination of oil-based paint thinner and a finisher, or "shellac." According to a This Old House article titled "Picking House Paint" by Fran J. Donegan, oil-based paints trap moisture underneath and can crack or blister in a constantly humid environment such as a bathroom, where a water-based latex might work better.
Latex on Oil Paint
When a painter applies latex paint on top of an oil-based paint, the water-based latex can bubble, peel and strip away from contact with the oil, states the Natural Handyman website. Latex paint will also break down and peel off when applied to a rough-textured surface, also termed a "popcorn texture," according to the Sherwin Williams website.
Latex over Oil Paint
Conversely, do not apply oil-based paint over a latex paint, according to This Old House. Rather than bubbling and peeling off, the oil-based paint dries and flakes off the latex.
Prep Before Painting
Preparing your surface before painting is vital, whichever type of paint you select. This Old House recommends the surface be clean and dry and that you should apply an initial coating of primer first.
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