How Do You Test For Oil-Based Paint?
Determining whether a can of paint, or an existing coat of paint on the walls, is latex or oil-based can be an important factor in repainting your home. Whether you want to know how to go about applying a new coat, or simply need to know what’s in that unmarked can of paint that’s been sitting around your house, there are easy steps that will tell you. Leave the lid off a can of paint. Let it sit out overnight, and look at the paint in the morning. Does it have an oily film on the top? If so, it is an oil-based paint. If it’s watery, it’s latex. Dip your hand into the can of paint, and rub your fingers together. Oil-based paints will be smooth, while latex paints will feel rubbery. Clean an area of the wall with water and soap so it is free from dirt. Dip a cotton ball into some alcohol. Scrub the clean area of the wall with the cotton ball, making sure it’s an area such as a corner of the room that isn’t highly visible. Let it dry for a few minutes. If the paint starts to come off, it
