Is latex paint a safer alternative to oil based paint
Latex paint is used in the overwhelming number of DIY projects. Its fast drying time, usually no more than 6 hours, means the project will take less time. Latex paint is dry to the touch in minutes and ready for a second coat in about four hours. Oil-based paints are dry to the touch in six to eight hours but need twenty-four hours before re-coating. Latex paint is a water-based dispersion of sub-micron polymer particles. The term “latex” in the context of paint simply means an aqueous dispersion; latex rubber (the sap of the rubber tree that has historically been called latex) is not an ingredient.
Latex paint is much more environmentally friendly than other paint types. It is not considered hazardous and may be disposed of with regular waste. Latex paint is by far the most common type of paint used. Exterior latex paints, like their interior cousins, are water-soluble. Latex paint is labeled as such or has instructions to clean up with water. Oil based paint may be labeled “alkyd”, “contains solvents”, “clean up with mineral spirits”, “combustible”, or “enamel.”.
Latex paint is made with polyvinyl material with acrylic resin, not natural rubber latex. Latex paint is not considered hazardous waste unless it was made pre-1991, in which case it may contain mercury. Modern latex paint still contains volatile organic compounds, however, so use a mask and paint with the windows open and a fan going if you can. Latex paint is usually not a hazardous waste, but in some cases the quantity of toxins could result in the need to characterize the waste.
Latex paint is appropriate for most interior residential jobs, so a nylon or synthetic bristle brush is what you want. Oil paint requires a more expensive China bristle brush, but avoid using oil — it’s more expensive, harder to clean up and fills your house with nasty fumes. Latex paint is easy to work with, dries quickly, cleans up with soap and water, and is forgiving of surface irregularities, but it is more sensitive to changing temperatures and less durable for high-traffic areas. Oil-based paint is harder to work with, has a stronger smell, takes longer to dry, and requires a solvent to clean spills, but it is better for sealing stains and in high-traffic areas.
Latex paint is recycled and non-profit organizations, residents, and neighborhood cleanup groups can use this recycled paint. See bucket label for basic instructions. Latex paint is usable if it is less than ten years old and has not been repeatedly frozen and thawed. Contact your county waste management authority to learn where latex paint can be recycled.