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What is Interior Latex Paint?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Interior latex paint is paint specifically formulated for use inside the home or office. While sold as a latex paint, most brands do not actually contain latex. Instead, the interior paint of today usually makes use of vinyl or acrylic resins, and occasionally a combination of the two.

In many ways, the many brands of interior latex paint share qualities with exterior latex paints. Both types of paints are formulated to offer complete coverage and to hold up well under a lot of wear and tear. However, both interior and exterior paints are formulated to withstand different types of wear and may not contain the same blend of ingredients.

Interior latex paint is water-based, which makes cleanup easier.
Interior latex paint is water-based, which makes cleanup easier.

Just about every brand of this paint can be used on a variety of different surfaces and still achieve an even coverage. The paint can be applied to plaster and drywall, as well as concrete and wood. Many interior latex paints can also be used to cover bricks. It is even possible to use the paint to cover wallpaper if desired.

Interior latex paint is water-based, but the presence of the acrylic or vinyl resins in the formula make the product easy to clean. Often, using a damp cloth is enough to wipe off streaks or stains without damaging the wall coating. Because the paint is available with a flat, semi-gloss and glossy finish, it can be used in just about any decorating plan and help achieve the desired look and feel for the space.

Latex paint may come mixed in with a primer.
Latex paint may come mixed in with a primer.

The ipaint offered on the market today offers some features that were not available in decades past. One innovation is interior paint that is relatively odor-free. This makes it possible to paint a space with less irritation to the nose, although it is still recommended that the room be well ventilated. Many interior paints also contain anti-microbial properties today that help to reduce the potential for mildew. There are even some paints that go on as a darker color while drying to a lighter color; this can be helpful when attempting to double check for areas that need touching up before the paint dries.

Painting with latex paints can result in a smooth finish regardless of the surface being painted on.
Painting with latex paints can result in a smooth finish regardless of the surface being painted on.

Consumers can obtain interior latex paint in just about any color imaginable. In addition to premixed paints, it is possible at many paint and home supply stores to custom blend the paint in order to achieve a specific hue or shade. While specially mixed paints tend to be slightly more expensive, they do allow homeowners to create a color that is truly unique and is exactly what they desire for the space.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

vrvs

The effects of painting indoors include eye irritations, respiratory infections, sinus problems, headaches, asthma and allergies. An all-natural paint additive has been developed, that, turns any newly painted wall in your home or business, into a permanent air, purification system no electricity or filters required. The Air-ReNu, technology permanently maintains healthy indoor air quality and removes offensive odors. Air-ReNu, is safe, effective and a permanent solution to these problems.

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    • Interior latex paint is water-based, which makes cleanup easier.
      By: Frog 974
      Interior latex paint is water-based, which makes cleanup easier.
    • Latex paint may come mixed in with a primer.
      By: kmiragaya
      Latex paint may come mixed in with a primer.
    • Painting with latex paints can result in a smooth finish regardless of the surface being painted on.
      By: mrallen
      Painting with latex paints can result in a smooth finish regardless of the surface being painted on.
    • Latex-based paints typically adhere more strongly to paintable wallpaper than do oil-based paints.
      By: Rob
      Latex-based paints typically adhere more strongly to paintable wallpaper than do oil-based paints.