Use exterior paint outside only. It releases harmful chemicals into the air, and the additives that make exterior paint durable outside can be harmful to your family’s health when used indoors.
You don’t have to worry if you use exterior paint on the inside. Prime the walls, and then paint the interior over the exterior.
Why Exterior Paint is Harmful When Used Indoors
The exterior paint has been designed to resist extreme weather conditions, such as heat, rain, and freezing temperatures. The paint contains resins that help it expand and contract to protect against changing weather conditions. The paint also contains additives that help resist discoloration and fading from UV rays and decay. These substances are harmful.
Many homeowners believe that exterior paint can be used indoors because of its durability. This is not true because exterior paints are not designed to be applied on drywall.
Reason 1: High levels of VOCs
Gases called volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are released by some products, cause ozone pollution. The exterior acrylic paint contains more VOCs. People with allergies may have breathing issues due to the VOCs released by exterior paint. Even after exterior paint has dried, it may continue to emit harmful toxins.
Reason 2: Harmful Additives
Interior paints cannot use the additives used for exterior paints. Exterior paint is made to cure and settle outside, where air quality is less affected.
Reason 3: More susceptible to deterioration
Exterior paints are more susceptible to damage and scratches when used indoors.
Reason 4: The ingredients used can cause allergies
When applied in restricted areas, the ingredients used to prevent mildew in exterior paint can cause allergic reactions and odors.
Interior Paint vs. Exterior Paint Interior Paint
The resins they contain (which bind the pigments to the painted surface) are the main differences between exterior and indoor paint.
Resin in exterior paints is designed to withstand temperature changes and resist mildew. Exterior paint resin, as a binder, is more durable and better able to resist peeling and fading in sunlight than interior paint resins. Interior paint resins are rigid and designed to make interior wall surfaces scrubbable and stain-resistant.
Exterior paints emit high levels of VOCs. This is why it’s not recommended to use them indoors. Interior paints release fewer toxins.
FAQS about Using Outdoor Paint Inside
Can you use exterior latex paint inside?
Do not use exterior latex inside due to the toxic chemicals released.
Can I use WeatherShield (r) indoors?
WeatherShield (r)paint is not intended to be used indoors. It’s meant to protect the exterior of your home from weather conditions and can cause harm when applied inside.
Can exterior paint be used inside a garage or shed?
Do not use exterior paint in a garage. The paint’s drying time is lengthy, and unhealthy fumes are released during the process.
Can I use acrylic exterior paint inside?
Use exterior acrylic paint outside only.
Can I use exterior paint inside my bathroom?
No. The number of VOCs released from exterior paints can negatively impact the air quality in confined spaces such as bathrooms. These chemicals can linger in enclosed spaces, increasing moisture and mildew.
Can exterior paint be used on interior trim?
Interior trim should not be painted with exterior paint due to the strong odors and contaminants that are released when painting.
Why choose Five Star Painting for your interior painting?
Do you want more information on the best interior paints to keep your family protected? Our painters are highly skilled and have decades of experience. They will do the job right the first time.
Our professional service offers many benefits, including:
- Specialized Equipment: The specialists are equipped with all the tools and equipment they need to do their job safely and efficiently. We provide the necessary protective gear, paint, and other specialized tools to ensure that a paint job is successful.
- Advanced cleaning and preparation: To prevent damage to your possessions, our professionals go the extra mile to repair holes, sand surfaces, and protect furniture and surrounding areas. No hazardous materials or debris will be left behind.
- Quality paint products: We only use quality indoor paints from Sherwin-Williams. Behr and Benjamin Moore. We will only recommend paints that are low in VOCs and environmentally friendly.
- Expertise: We have a proven track record of success. Our experience minimizes the risks of injury or damage to property.