[Explained] Can You Use Oil Based Paint on Concrete?

When choosing paint for your interior or exterior concrete floor and wall, you will find different types of paint available, and oil-based paint is one of them. Back in the ‘70s or ‘80s, oil-based paint was so popular and most of the houses were painted with oil-based paint. However with time, the usage of oil-based concrete decreases. 

Though oil-based paint is widely used on wood surfaces and walls what about concrete? Is it okay to use oil-based paint on concrete walls or floors? Well, the answer is both Yes and No.

In today’s article, we have discussed when you can use oil-based paint and when it’s prohibited to use. So, be with us till the end and find out the answer that you are looking for. Let’s begin then!

Can Concrete be Painted with Oil-Based Paint?

Oil paint is basically used for painting wood and metal surfaces. It’s capable of providing a glossy-shiny and hard finish to the surface and that’s why people use it mostly when painting wood or metal surfaces.

Now let’s talk about concrete surfaces. If you are using oil-based paint for your household then it will be a suitable choice for you. Oil-based can provide better output when you are using it on the exterior and interior walls. They are shiny and durable and also provide strong protection against scratches abrasions, and stains. 

When It Can’t Be Used?

If you are willing to apply it on the concrete floor, driveway, or patio, then you will face circumstances. Oil-based paint isn’t capable to withstand high foot traffic and due to this reason, it will start peeling and cracking.

In that case, it’s not suggested to use oil-based paint there. However, if you have less traffic in your house and driveway, then you can use oil-based paint there without any issue.

So Which Surfaces Are Ideal for Using Oil Based Paint?

Generally, oil-based paint is used for painting on a canvas. But it is also used with wood and metal. Using oil-based paint on wood and metal surface have a lot of advantages. Such as the surface getting more durability, having a glossy finish, get resistant to heat, moisture, corrosion in metal, mildew, and so on.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQs)

Is oil-based paint toxic?

The paint isn’t toxic itself but it emits harmful gas to the environment. During the drying period, this paint emits volatile organic content which is harmful to the environment.

What kind of paint can I use on concrete?

If you are looking for the best paint on concrete then you should go for epoxy and latex paints. They are capable of providing a shiny, smooth surface. If you are looking for paint for a concrete floor then you should use paint with a polyurethane base.

Can I use water-based paint on concrete?

Yes, you can use water-based paint on concrete. This type of paint can penetrate concrete and can stain properly.

Conclusion

Though there are complications with oil-based paint for using it on concrete, it can still be used there. Just you will need to use it wisely and in the right place. Otherwise, you may have consequences in the future. Besides that, if you want a better option then go for latex-based or epoxy-based paint for your concrete surface.