Can You Use Exterior Paint Indoors? The Definitive Answer!
Have you just painted your house exterior and have some leftover exterior paint? What can you do with it? You must be asking yourself, can I use exterior paint indoors? The use of exterior paint indoors is generally not recommended but if you take a few precautions then you can use it. So, let’s discuss the ways in which you can use exterior paint indoors.
However, before getting to that, you must understand what exterior paint is and how it differs from interior one. The basic thing that differentiates between exterior and interior paint is the chemical composition. Moreover, the exterior paint gives off fumes even when dry. These are harmful to pets and humans alike.
In what ways can you use exterior paint indoors? Let’s find out!
Composition Of Exterior Paint
Outdoor paints are composed of chemicals that allow them to withstand all kinds of weather conditions from the scorching sun to freezing cold, and continuous rainfall. The exterior paints are highly resistant to peeling off, fading, mildew growth, or even cracks. These consist of flexible resin binders that help them to resist UV light and also give a very different finish. Based on their specific composition, they are further divided into several types.
Oil Or Water-Based
The exterior paints can be either oil-based or water-based. The oil-based ones usually contain soybean oil, tung, or linseed. Water-based paints, on the other hand, contain latex. As for the VOC emission, oil-based paints give off more volatile compounds than water-based. Hence, if you want to use exterior paints indoors, go for the water-based ones to reduce the risk.
Organic Or Inorganic Pigments
The role of the pigments is to provide color to the paint. The higher the amount of pigment, the more solid and the more covering the color and vice versa. As for the type of pigments, these are either organic or inorganic in nature. The organic pigments are derived from plant or animal material while the inorganic is of mineral origin. So, if you want your indoor paint to last longer, then you can try organic pigment.
Additives And Binders
As the name suggests, the function of additives and binders is to make the paint firm. These are the real MVPs behind offering resistance to extreme environmental conditions. Therefore, one reason you might want to use exterior paints indoors is that they are more durable and long-lasting since they contain different additives than those used in indoor paints.
Exterior Paints Vs Interior Paints
From pigments to bases and even additives, there is a huge difference between exterior and interior paints. Consequently, they have different kinds of emissions and finish. So, let’s compare the basic characteristics of interior and exterior paints for a better choice.
Characteristics Of Interior Paint | Characteristics Of Exterior Paint |
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Can I Use Exterior Paint Indoors?
The use of exterior paints indoors is generally not recommended due to a number of health risks associated with them. These paints contain different kinds of pigments that give off volatile fumes even when the paint is dry. Therefore, if you live in an enclosed space, then you should not use exterior paints indoors. However, if the place has good ventilation and is not used for sleeping, then you can use exterior paints. For instance, you can use exterior paints in your bathroom as they will withstand humidity.
So, how bad are exterior paints for your health? Well, they can cause all kinds of problems from headaches to neurological disorders, and even cancers. Moreover, if you have children, then the use of exterior paints indoors should be a big no. These emit such strong chemical fumes that even the painter is required to wear a respirator while applying the coat or they might get dizzy and pass out.
Precautionary Measures To Take While Using Exterior Paints
If you want to use exterior paint in painting some of the indoors, then you must take a few precautions to avoid any health problems. These are discussed below.
- Properly ventilate the space before, during, and after using exterior paints
- Go for the water-based ones as they emit less harmful compounds
- Use a respirator or a face mask during painting the house
- Do not let the paint tins lie around open
- Shift back to your place after the paint is completely dry
Final Verdict
Can exterior paint be used indoors? The answer is both yes and no. If you have the option to go with the interior pants, then go for those. However, if you use exterior paints, make sure that your place is properly ventilated and that your family does not suffer from any breathing problems or allergies. Moreover, you cannot expect the same fine texture from exterior paints as you would get from indoor ones.