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What Is Enamel Paint?
November 30, 2022 at 8:00 AM
YOANN SILOINE PAINT ROLLER

Taking on a major painting project can be daunting, whether you hire professional painters or decide to tackle it yourself. You must plan out how much paint you need, handle the prep work, and factor in drying time and multiple coats. A common thing most people overlook is the type of paint they should use for their home. Depending on the surface you’re painting, you’ll generally want to decide between enamel and latex paint.

This article will explain the differences and similarities between enamel and latex paint and discuss the scenarios where you might want to use each paint type.

Enamel Paint defined

Enamel paint is an oil paint that can be used on interior or exterior surfaces. No matter what paint brand you use, most enamel paints are oil-based, though a few are water-based. If you want a smooth finish, you can use enamel spray paint or brushed-on enamel paint.

Uses for enamel paint

Since it dries hard, enamel paint can be an aesthetically pleasing and durable surface. Here are ideas for using enamel paint in your next home improvement project:

  • Covering metal. Metal can be a suitable substrate for enamel paints. This paint is hard enough to work on outdoor furniture and inside your home. Use sandpaper on the metal surface before you paint to encourage good mechanical adhesion.
  • Casing doors and windows. The doors and windows in your home can likely benefit from a fresh coat of paint. Because of its durability, enamel paint is a solid option for any areas of your home that see consistent use.
  • Glossing floors