Just bought a house and want to repaint
2006-09-22 02:39:53 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Decorating & Remodeling
Several of the previous posters had it right...rub an inconspicuous spot with a cotton ball soaked in ammonia (or alcohol, I believe that works also). If the paint rubs off, its water-based (latex) paint.
Contrary to what the previous poster stated, knowing whether the surface you are painting over is oil-based of latex is very important. If you're still uncertain, you can prime over the surface with an oil-based or shellac-based primer (Zinsser BIN is a good one).
Oil-based primer will make the surface safe to paint again with either oil-based or latex (highly suggested). You can paint over oil-based primer with latex paint, but you cannot paint over oil-based PAINT with latex paint. It will cause it to blister.
For more info you can check out this page: http://www.how-to-faux-finish.com/surface-preparation.html
2006-09-22 11:28:28 · answer #1 · answered by amsmith 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Test For Oil Based Paint
2016-11-15 09:34:38 · answer #2 · answered by gremer 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all, how old is the house and when was the last time it was painted? If it's a brand new house, then it's got a builder's grade of paint on there and it should be primed and painted. In most cases, the paint is latex paint. Can use a good quality latex primer and paint and you're all set. As always, make sure the walls are clean and that you have patched and repaired any hole that are in the walls before you do any painting.
2006-09-22 06:07:33 · answer #3 · answered by joem_1701 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
actually oil based paint is more dueable and stronger than latex. Oil base paint you can scrub latex paint I can take of your walls with just a warm damp cloth
2015-08-13 09:01:49 · answer #4 · answered by keith 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Put finger nail polish remover on cotton ball or paper towel and rub this on wall. If paint comes off it is latex paint. If no paint comes off it is oil and you need to put a primer on first then paint with latex paint.
2006-09-22 03:00:23 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Try rubbing an inconspicuous corner of the painted area with a cotton ball dipped in alcohol. If the color comes off it is latex.
2006-09-22 02:42:25 · answer #6 · answered by Rich Z 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
It is probably Latex. Oil base paints are not used much indoors they are better for outdoor work. Latex paint is also shinier than oil base paint. Scratch a bit off and see if it has a rubbery feel. That indicates it is latex.
2006-09-22 02:50:09 · answer #7 · answered by minvikingroughrider 1 · 0⤊ 4⤋
Another way is to get a piece that is coming off and bend it if it cracks right away it is oil base if it bends before cracking it is laxtex
2006-09-22 03:05:09 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
My first inclination to answer this question is with a question. Why do you want to know? If your intention is to paint over the existing color, what type of paint your painting over doesn't matter. Even paint containing lead won't hurt anyone if it is just painted over. If you have questions about lead based paint, you should consult a lead based paint expert. The paint department at a home improvement store can halp you locate one in your area. No matter what type of paint you're painting over, ensure the surface is clean and you use a good quality latex paint and a good primer for any areas of cracked or peeling paint and it will come out beautifully.
2006-09-22 06:24:25 · answer #9 · answered by rentahandyman 2 · 0⤊ 8⤋
Mostly by touch.
latex is paint the you usually use in the bathroom and or kitchen because it is easier to clean.
2006-09-22 02:48:03 · answer #10 · answered by Gabe 6 · 0⤊ 6⤋