What is latex paint

Latex paints are the way to go. Not only do they work better and clean up easier than oil-based paints , but you may not even be able to find oil-based paints in the near future. This is due to new and changing regulations by the Environmental Protection Agency EPA , which has started to make new regulations regarding the harmful chemical contents found in oil paints, known as VOCs Volatile Organic Compounds. Latex paints are named "latex" because they previously had a rubber base, which is no longer used. Latex paints are now made with a water soluble base and are built on vinyl and acrylics.

For hundreds of years, people have been using oil based paints for their impermeability and toughness. Unlike water, oil does not dry by evaporation. It dries through a process of oxidation that converts the oil into a polymer chain. There are, however, several disadvantages to oil based paint. The paint pigment in oil paint is suspended in the solvent. VOCs are found in this solvent and are released as the paint is drying or being cured. VOCs are harmful to occupant health and the environment.

By homefixcos April 22, But what is latex paint? What are some reasons you may want to choose latex paint over other types?

Discussion in ' Painters' Talk ' started by upnorth , Sep 30, Log in or Sign up. Screwfix Community Forum. Latex Paint.