How to Tell What’s on Your Walls
Wondering whether your walls currently have oil-based or water-based paint? There’s an easy way to find out:
- Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol or methylated spirits.
- Wipe a small area of the wall.
- If paint comes off on the cloth, it’s water-based. If not, it’s oil-based.
This quick test can save you a lot of guesswork and help you decide the right type of paint for your project.
Cleaning Up
Cleaning up after painting is another area where water-based paint takes the lead. Brushes, rollers, and trays can be cleaned with water—no harsh chemicals are required. Oil-based paint, however, demands turpentine or specialty thinners, which can be both messy and expensive.
