What is the Difference Between Interior and Exterior Paint?
Posted on January 25, 2023
While both interior and exterior paint may look similar, there are key characteristics that set the two apart. Maybe you have an extra can of exterior paint you are considering using for your interior, vice versa. However, there are a few things you should know beforehand. Knowing these differences can help you choose the right paint for your project.
The primary difference in exterior and interior paint is resin. Resin is the substance that binds the pigment to the surface, but it differs in each type of paint. Exterior paint faces harsh outdoor conditions that can effect its longevity. It needs to withstand temperature changes, harsh weather, moisture exposure, and other testing environments. For these reasons, exterior paint is made with more flexible resins to help it stand up to it’s surroundings. The paint itself is much tougher and more resilient, helping avoid chipping and fading. Interior paints do not have to face the same conditions, which is why it is made with more rigid resins. This helps resist scuffs and scratches and makes them easier to clean.
Another key difference is in the way the omit chemicals. The added resin that makes exterior paint so durable it is not ideal for indoor use. Even after dried, exterior paint can gradually release harmful chemicals in small amounts for years following. Therefore, it is not recommended to use exterior paint inside. Interior paint is generally much safer for indoor use.
