What is better enamels, latexes or oils?
A.Enamel is a broad classification for finishing materials that dry to a smooth, hard finish and usually possess a gloss. In the past this term referred exclusively to oil base products, however, new generation latex products area also at times referred to as enamels. Because of these factors enamel as, a paint term has become somewhat ambiguous. Oil base products are those products that typically are composed of pigments dissolved in a mineral spirit such as paint thinner. While latex products are an emulsion suspended in water. The obvious differences are that oil base product require mineral spirits for clean up, have a longer dry time, and have a stronger odor while drying to a harder finish. Latex products typically will dry faster and are water clean up. Oil base products are used primarily where a harder finish is required. However, today’s improved latex products have allowed for the substitution of latex in nearly all scenarios that had traditionally called for an oil base mat