Different Types of Paints for Interior Walls

Oil

• One solvent variety of interior paint is the oil-based variety. Mineral spirits serve as the solvent in the oil-based formula. Because of its highly chemical makeup, paint thinner is required to remove stains, making oil paint a potentially hazardous product. Oil paint should be used, stored and disposed of with great care. Allow plenty of time for the paint to dry before inhabiting the space and keep the area well ventilated during application.

Latex

• Latex paint is perhaps the most widely available type of paint for the homeowner. Latex is an acrylic or water-based paint variety, which means that the solvent is water. Because of this simple formula, latex paint proves some of the easiest paint to work with. Latex paints can be cleaned with a simple soap and water solution and do not require paint thinners or strippers such as turpentine to remove from your skin. Some latex paints are specifically designed for moist, humid areas in the home such as the kitchen or bathroom. These carefully formulated paints contain a mildew-resistant quality.

Low VOC

• As part of the "green" movement many paint manufacturers are producing safer products for consumers. Low VOC paints are paints that contain little to no volatile organic compounds, which are the off-gases which produce a strong chemical smell. These VOCs can be a health hazard, particularly in homes with children and pets. Search for low VOC paints at your local hardware or home improvement store. Sherwin-Williams, Valspar and Benjamin Moore all produce these eco-friendly options.