Latex Paint
Water-based paint that uses acrylic or vinyl polymers as binders, offering easy cleanup and low VOC emissions.
Why It Matters for Homeowners
Why it matters: modern latex (water-based acrylic) has caught up to and often surpasses oil-based paint for residential exteriors and interiors. It dries faster, cleans up with water, has lower VOC emissions, and is more flexible, which means it cracks less when surfaces expand and contract. For most California homes, latex is the default choice. Oil is now reserved for specific cabinet or trim jobs where the smoother flow is worth the longer dry time.
Related searches: latex paint, acrylic paint, water based paint