How Do You Test For Oil Or Latex Paint?
Do you have an unmarked can of paint in your house, and you’re uncertain as to what exactly is in the container? Perhaps you want to paint over a wall but don’t know what type of paint is on it. A simple test can tell you whether you’re dealing with an oil based or latex paint. Dab a cotton ball with denatured alcohol. Swab a small area of the wall in a place that won’t be noticeable later on, such as a corner or behind a piece of furniture. Rub the cotton ball across the paint a few times and let it dry for a couple minutes. If the paint looks slightly dissolved, you are dealing with a latex paint. If the paint shows no signs of dissolving, it is an oil based paint. Leave the lid off a can of paint if you do not know what’s in it. Make sure it’s in a well ventilated area. Wait at least 12 hours and check on the can. Oil based paint will have a layer of oil floating at the top, while latex paint will be more watery. Dip your fingers in the can of paint, if you do not want to leave it o
