Acrylic vs. Latex Paint: Which One Should You Choose?
When you’re starting a paint project, one big question usually comes up: acrylic or latex paint? Not sure which one to pick? No worries! This guide will walk you through the main differences between acrylic and latex paint, show you what each one is best for, and help you choose the right one for your project.
What is Acrylic Paint?
Acrylic paint is super tough and perfect for projects that need to handle weather and wear, like outdoor furniture or walls. Acrylic is water-based but dries into a solid, flexible layer that sticks well to many surfaces, not just walls.
Best For:
- Outdoor projects
- Bathrooms and other high-moisture spots
- Surfaces that get a lot of use, like furniture
Pros of Acrylic Paint:
- Very Durable: Acrylic paint can handle weather, moisture, and sunlight without fading or breaking down.
- Flexible: It can expand and contract as temperatures change, so it’s less likely to crack.
- Sticks to Many Surfaces: Works on wood, metal, plastic, and more.
- Rich Colors: Colors stay bright and vibrant.
Cons of Acrylic Paint:
- Hard to Clean Up: Once it’s dry, acrylic paint doesn’t wash off with water. You’ll need a paint remover or rubbing alcohol for spills or brushes.
What is Latex Paint?
Latex paint is affordable, which makes it perfect for bigger projects. It also dries fast, so you won’t be waiting around long before it’s ready for a second coat or a touch-up.
Pros of Latex Paint:
- Affordable: Costs less than acrylic, so it’s a good choice for painting large areas.
- Fast Drying: Dries quickly, letting you finish your project sooner.
Cons of Latex Paint:
- Not Very Durable: Doesn’t handle rough weather or moisture as well as acrylic.
- Less Flexible: Can crack or peel, especially if used outdoors.
- Best for Walls: Sticks well to drywall and wood but doesn’t work as well on metal or plastic.
Differences Between Acrylic and Latex Paint
To make things easier, let’s look at the main differences between acrylic and latex paint side by side.
| Feature | Acrylic Paint | Latex Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Very durable, handles weather and moisture | Best for indoor use, less durable |
| Surface Flexibility | Expands and contracts with temperature | Not as flexible, can crack outdoors |
| Ease of Cleanup | Hard to clean, requires solvents | Easy to clean with soap and water |
| Cost | More expensive | Usually more affordable |
| Odor | Stronger odor, needs ventilation | Low odor, easy to use indoors |
| Best For | Outdoor projects, high-moisture areas | Indoor walls and ceilings |
Which Paint Should You Use?
When choosing between acrylic and latex paint, think about where you’ll be painting and what the surface needs. Here’s a quick guide:
- For Indoor Walls and Ceilings: Go with latex paint. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and has low odor, making it perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and hallways.
- For Outdoor Projects: Acrylic paint is the winner here. It’s built to last in all kinds of weather and sticks well to surfaces like wood and metal.
- For High-Moisture Areas: Bathrooms or kitchens can benefit from acrylic paint since it holds up against moisture better than latex.
- For Furniture or Trim: Acrylic paint is usually best because it’s tough and durable. It’ll keep its color and finish even with lots of use.
Tips for Using Acrylic Paint
- Use Primer: Acrylic paint sticks well, but a primer will make it even better, especially on smooth surfaces.
- Work in a Ventilated Area: Since acrylic paint has a stronger odor, open windows or use a fan if you’re painting indoors.
- Prepare for Cleanup: Have some paint remover or rubbing alcohol on hand to clean brushes and spills, as water alone won’t work.
If you’re going with acrylic paint, here are a few tips to get the best results:
Tips for Using Latex Paint
Latex paint is straightforward, but these tips can make it even easier:
- Prep the Surface: Make sure walls are clean and dry before painting. Latex doesn’t stick well to dusty or greasy surfaces.
- Use a Good Brush or Roller: Latex paint works well with synthetic brushes and rollers.
- Clean Up Right After: Wash your brushes and rollers with soap and water before the paint dries for easy cleanup.
Choosing the Right Paint
If you’re painting something outside or a spot that deals with rough weather, go for acrylic paint – it’s tough and flexible. Latex paint is usually easier to work with on indoor walls and ceilings. It dries quickly, doesn’t smell too strong, and is better for indoor air quality.
Product Recommendations
For Acrylic Paint:
- Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Advanced Spray Paint: A durable acrylic paint perfect for outdoor wood and metal surfaces.
- Behr Premium Plus Exterior Acrylic Paint: Great for high-traffic areas; it’s durable, washable, and holds up well outdoors.
For Latex Paint:
- Behr Premium Plus Interior Flat Latex: High-quality latex paint for indoor walls and ceilings with a smooth, non-reflective finish.
- Valspar Ultra Interior Latex Paint + Primer: Latex paint with a soft sheen, perfect for walls and ceilings inside your home.
How Long Do They Last?
Let’s be real, no one wants to repaint every year. So, how long do these paints stick around before they start looking old?
- Acrylic Paint: This stuff is tough. If you use acrylic outside or on something that sees a lot of action, it’s going to last. You’re looking at around 10 years or even more if it’s done right. It’s a solid choice for things that need to handle the weather.
- Latex Paint: Indoors, latex does great – it’s not as heavy-duty as acrylic but can still look good for about 5–10 years. It works well on walls in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. Basically, if it’s not getting rained on or beat up, latex should hold up just fine for years.
Mixing Acrylic and Latex – Can You?
Wondering if you can mix these two types? Here’s the lowdown:
- Acrylic on Top of Latex: Yep, you can do this. Just make sure the surface is clean and maybe give it a light sanding so the acrylic sticks nicely.
- Latex on Top of Acrylic: A little trickier. If the acrylic has a shiny finish, latex might have a hard time grabbing on. Try a primer first to help it stick.
- Actually Mixing Them: Not a great idea. Mixing acrylic and latex in the same bucket won’t work well. Keep them separate, but layering is okay if you prep the surface.
Eco-Friendly Paints
If you want to keep things better for the planet (and avoid strong paint smells), here’s what to know:
- Low-VOC Paints: VOCs are those chemicals that give off that “paint smell,” especially when wet. Both acrylic and latex now come in low-VOC or no-VOC options, which is good for indoor air.
- Water-Based Means Less Smell: Both latex and acrylic are water-based, which means fewer harsh chemicals compared to oil-based paint. So, if you want something gentler for indoor projects, they’re both better than oil paints.
An eco-friendly paint can keep the smell down and is easier on the environment, especially if you’re painting a room you’re in a lot, like a bedroom or living room.
How Fast Do They Dry?
Here’s how drying time stacks up between these two:
- Acrylic Paint: Takes a bit longer than latex. Expect it to take around 1-2 hours before it’s dry enough for another coat. It’s worth the wait, though, since it lasts longer.
- Latex Paint: This one dries pretty quickly. You might be able to put on another coat in just 30–60 minutes. It’s great for getting the job done fast, especially if you’re painting a whole room and don’t want to be stuck waiting around.
So, if you’re tight on time, latex is the winner here. But if you’re going for durability, it’s worth being a little patient with acrylic.
FAQ: Acrylic vs Latex Paint
Acrylic paint is more durable and flexible, ideal for outdoor projects and high-moisture areas, while latex paint is affordable, dries quickly, and works best for indoor walls.
Acrylic paint is best for outdoor projects due to its durability and resistance to weather conditions.
Latex paint isn’t as moisture-resistant as acrylic. For bathrooms or kitchens, acrylic paint is a better choice.
Latex paint is easier to clean with soap and water, while acrylic requires paint remover or rubbing alcohol for cleanup.
Yes, acrylic paint has a stronger odor and requires ventilation. Latex paint has low odor, making it easier to use indoors.
Ready to Pick the Right Paint?
Choosing between acrylic and latex paint doesn’t have to be tricky. Just think about where you’re painting and how much wear the surface will get.
For outdoor projects or areas with lots of moisture, acrylic is a great choice. For indoor walls and ceilings, latex paint keeps things simple, affordable, and low-odor.
Need a hand with your painting project? Sherwood Painting is here to help! Whether it’s choosing the right paint or doing the job for you, our team makes it easy. Contact us at (704) 924-1800, and let’s get started!