Can you use Interior Paints outside?

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If you’ve fallen in love with a certain type of paint, you may be tempted to use it across your property. Maybe you’ve got paint left over from painting your interior, and you want to use it on an exterior surface? Using the wrong paints for the wrong surfaces can have a disastrous effect on your property. Not only can they end up looking hideous, in some cases they can contribute to structural damage. If you’re thinking about using interior paints, like vinyl soft sheen paints, on an exterior surface, you should definitely think again.

Here at Paintmaster, we’ve seen what happens when people use the wrong type of paint for a particular surface. It can be problematic when you use interior paints on the wrong interior surface. Choosing to use interior paints of any kind on an external surface for your home or business can be a real problem. Whatever kind of paints you’re looking for, our team are here for you. We’re more than happy to offer advice and recommendations on finding the best possible paints to suit your needs.

Interior Paints and Exterior Paints – What’s the Difference?

The chemistry behind interior and exterior paints has changed a great deal in the past few years. Paints are specifically designed for use on certain spaces. It isn’t just a case of throwing any old paint on any kind of surface. Modern paints are designed to deliver a more reliable surface in specific environments. We don’t want you end up throwing money away on paints which, although are a high-quality, are unsuitable for your project’s needs.

At their most basic level,  there are two main kinds of paints; water-based and oil-based paints (including vinyl soft sheen paints). It would be simple if one type of paint was designed for internal use and one for external use. However, both kinds are available in compositions to suit both surfaces.

When it comes to exterior paints, oil-based paints are better at resisting dirt. However, it is also common for water-based latex paint to be used on external surface. This is because water-based latex paint is just as durable but offers a range of other benefits.

Why are Water-Based Paints the Best Choice for External Surfaces?

Water-based paints are the best option for exterior surfaces as they are more reliable and versatile in external environments. For example, some of the benefits that these paints can provide include:

  • Weather Resistance. 
  • Humidity Resistance. 
  • Rapid Temperature Changes. 
  • Quick to Dry. 
  • Easy to Apply to Masonry and Other Surfaces.

Paints which have been formulated for use in exterior environments contain additives which have been designed to ensure long-term reliability. These additives ensure that both oil-based and water-based external paints are resistant to cracking, dirt and damage caused by UV lighting.

What Happens If I Use Interior Paints on an External Surface?

Choosing to use an interior paint, such as vinyl soft sheen paints, on an outside surface will lead to a range of problems. Immediately, you will notice that the paint itself may not be able to adhere to the surface. It is common for interior paints to be too thin for external surfaces, including masonry. These paints will often require several coats to provide even a thin layer. This paint will also often appear patchy and unprofessional. It can also take significantly longer for these paints to dry. In many cases, they will not be able to dry in damp or overly cold conditions.

Interior paints do not have the same additives as external paints. They will, for example, not be resistant to the effects of the weather. Rain, frost and other examples of inclement weather can lead to a wide range of issues, including flaking, running and cracking paint. In some cases, being exposed to the sun for too long can lead to a range of serious problems.

Can you use Exterior Paint inside?

While external paints are designed to resist the effects of the weather, they are not designed for internal use. They can become easily marked and scuffed when used internally. Being able to resist the effects of the weather doesn’t mean that this paint can resist regular use or footfall. They are also less resistant to the effects of cleaning. If you spill food, for example, you won’t be able to use household cleaning liquids. In addition to practical concerns, external paints don’t look as good as internal paints. They’re less likely to provide a completely even covering of the ceiling, wall or floor.

Some external paints also give off potentially harmful fumes which will disperse when used externally. However, when used inside a building, these fumes can become trapped and can cause unpleasant smells in the room.

Make Sure You’re Using the Right Paints for the Right Surface

Here at Paintmaster, we’re able to provide a full range of interior and exterior paints to suit your needs. If you’re looking for high-quality, reliable paints for use internally, vinyl soft sheen paints are a great option. Thanks to their composition, they can be easily applied to all kinds of interior surfaces.

Vinyl paints are some of the most popular choices for internal use. Vinyl soft sheen paints are hard-wearing paints which can resist impacts and regular, heavy footfall. These vinyl satin solutions can be used in all kinds of homes and businesses.

For Interior Vinyl Soft Sheen Paints, Call Paintmaster Today

Here at Paintmaster, our experienced team can deliver a complete range of interior and exterior paints. Whether you’re looking for white, magnolia or another colour of paints, our team are here for you. We are happy to offer advice on the right kind of paint for your needs.

For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experienced team today. You can reach our specialist team directly by calling 01663 733633. If you prefer, you can email any questions or concerns you might have to sales@paintmaster.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.