Oil-Based VS. Water-Based Paint

So, you’ve moved into a new home. Exciting, right? But those outdated paint colors from the previous owners? Not so much.

No problem—just repaint! But wait…

What type of paint did they use?

This one question can make or break your painting project. If you’re unsure, you might be setting yourself up for a peeling, cracking disaster. That’s why understanding oil-based paint vs. acrylic or latex and best practices for painting over enamel paint with acrylic is crucial.

Oil-Based Paint vs. Water-Based Paint

When it comes to house paint, the battle typically comes down to two contenders:

Oil-Based Paint

A tried-and-true option, oil-based paint contains either natural or synthetic oils. Enamel paint can be oil-based or water-based, but traditionally, the glossy finished and highly durable enamel paints were all oil based.

✔ Best for: Longevity, durability, high-gloss finishes, trim, and other high-contact areas.

Water-Based Paint (Acrylic or Latex Paint)

A modern alternative that uses water as its primary solvent instead of mineral spirits.

✔ Best for: DIY projects, exterior surfaces, easy cleanup, and environmentally friendly applications.

Oil-based paint was once the go-to choice, but due to its high VOC (volatile organic compound) content, many homeowners are shifting toward water-based options. However, if your home has oil-based paint and you’re thinking about painting over enamel paint with acrylic, there are some critical steps to follow.

Can You Paint Water-Based Paint Over Oil-Based Paint?

In short—no, not directly. Oil and water don’t mix, and painting a water-based acrylic or latex paint directly over an oil-based surface will lead to peeling, cracking, and adhesion failure.

But don’t worry! You can still successfully transition from oil to water-based paint. Here’s how:

How to Tell if Paint is Oil-Based

If you’re unsure what type of paint is on your walls, try this quick test:

1. Pick an inconspicuous area.

2. Dampen a cotton ball or cloth with denatured alcohol or acetone.

3. Wipe the surface. If paint color transfers onto the cloth, it’s water-based. If not, it’s oil-based.

How to Paint Over Oil-Based Paint the Right Way

Once you confirm that you’re dealing with oil-based paint, follow these steps:

Option 1: Use an Oil-Based Paint in a New Color

If you’re fine with sticking to oil-based paint, simply sand the surface lightly, clean it, and apply a fresh coat of oil-based paint for a durable, long-lasting finish.

Option 2: Transition to Water-Based Paint (The Right Way!)

1. Sand the Surface – Lightly sand the oil-based paint to remove its glossy finish and create a rough surface for better adhesion.

2. Apply an Oil-Based Primer – This is the key! Can oil-based paint go over water-based primer? No—but water-based paint can go over oil-based primer. The primer acts as a bonding layer.

3. Paint with Water-Based Acrylic or Latex Paint – Once the primer dries, you’re free to apply your chosen water-based color.

💡 Pro Tip: We recommend Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Waterborne Interior Acrylic Enamel for a smooth, durable finish.

What If You Already Painted Over Oil-Based Paint With Water-Based Paint?

Mistakes happen! If you’ve already applied a water-based paint over oil without proper prep, you might be seeing peeling, cracking, or bubbling. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Strip off the peeling paint.

2. Sand the affected area.

3. Clean and dry the surface.

4. Apply an oil-based primer.

5. Repaint with a water-based color of your choice.

If this sounds like too much work, don’t worry—our team at ReliaPaint can handle it for you!

Final Takeaways: Enamel vs. Oil-Based Paint

✔ Enamel vs. oil paint: Enamel paints can be water- or oil-based, but traditional oil-based enamel is known for its durability.

✔ Can oil-based paint go over water-based primer? No, but you can apply water-based paint over an oil-based primer.

✔ Painting over enamel paint with acrylic: Requires sanding, priming, and proper surface prep for best results.

Want a flawless paint job with none of the hassle? Contact ReliaPaint today for a free estimate!