How do I know if my paint is latex or oil?
/It’s very important to know whether your paint is oil or latex because it can guide you to what you’re able to use on top of the existing paint. Latex can cover latex or oil primer; oil can cover latex or oil products. Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell which is which when it’s old paint; so, here’s a few examples of the differences:
LATEX
Peeled paint has an elasticity to it and stretches like gum
Can be shiny or dull
TEST IT:
Wipe the surface with acetone-free nail polish remover and if any colour comes off, this indicates it is latex paint.
OIL
Peeled paint is brittle and stiff, will break easily
Typically a shinier finish
TEST IT:
Wipe the surface with acetone-free nail polish remover and if nothing comes off, this indicates it is oil paint.
If you need to convert from oil to latex, lightly sand and prime with a conversion primer - like Freshstart or STIX. This will provide you with the adhesion needed to top coat with latex paint. If you were going from latex to oil or oil to oil, there’s no need for primer unless the surface is super shiny and will create a struggle to cover.
