Interior and Exterior Paints – Are They Interchangeable?
For the most part, paints are very similar. While there are oil and water based paints, which do have some chemical differences, all paint comprises of resin, solvent and pigment. But there are key differences between some kinds of paints that may be more suited for application on certain surfaces. Paints can also vary in their appearance and finish. Matte, Low sheen, Semi-gloss & Gloss varieties can be chosen for their respective looks, with each differing in terms of sheen, reflectivity, durability, etc.
So what about exterior and interior paints? Are there considerable differences between the two?
Different Needs
Naturally, exterior and interior paints are exposed to different kinds of environments. Paint on the outside of your house needs to be able to withstand cold winds and storms, hail and the blazing hot sun belting down on it in the summer time. Compare that to interior paint, which isn’t exposed to these kinds of conditions. At the same time, imperfections with interior paint are much more noticeable and unsightly, so interior paint needs to be able to be cleaned and maintained easily. there are different requirements for each.
Choice of Resin
In terms of make-up, the main difference between the two is the quantity and choice of resin that is used. Resin is an organic substance that adheres the pigment to the surface. A softer resin, which is usually found in exterior paints, is suitable here because can give paint the appearance of looking healthy even if the surface underneath is contacting and expanding. It also makes it less likely the paint chips, peels and fades. More rigid resins are suitable for interior paint.
Can They be Interchanged?
The simple answer is no. You might think that because exterior paints are made tougher and are able to withstand more that they’d perform well in the interior setting too. But this is not the case. In fact, exterior paint tends to scuff and get scratched quite easily, something that is not easy to notice when it’s on the exterior of your home but very noticeable indoors. There is also the fact that exterior paint releases more VOCs (potentially toxic compounds) into the air. When used indoors this can be quite dangerous and lead to certain allergies. On the other hand, using interior paint outdoors will result in peeling and cracking due to changing temperatures.
As you’ve read, there are key differences between interior and exterior paints that make them suitable for each. That’s why it’s important to pick out the right paint whether you’re painting indoors or outdoors. For more information, you can always get in touch with residential painting company in Sydney.
