🎨 What’s the Difference Between Latex and Acrylic Paint? | Advice from KL Montage

When choosing paint for interior walls, a common question arises: should I use latex or acrylic paint? While both types are widely used, there are key differences in composition, application, and results.

In this blog, KL Montage clearly explains the difference between latex and acrylic paint and when it's best to use each.

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🧪 1. The Basis: Paint Composition

Latex Paint

• Traditionally based on natural latex (rubber), but now mostly synthetic.

• Often used as a general term for wall paint.

• Water-based, with a matte finish and breathable properties.

Acrylic Paint

• Also water-based, but uses acrylic resin as a binder.

• Stronger, more elastic, and more durable than standard latex.

• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

➡️ Key Difference: Acrylic paint is generally of higher quality, provides better adhesion, and is more wear-resistant.

🖌️ 2. Use and Application Areas

Property	Latex Paint	Acrylic Paint
Application	Interior walls, ceilings	Interior and exterior
Adhesion	Good on standard surfaces	Excellent, even on difficult surfaces
Washability	Limited	High (scrub-resistant available)
Durability	Less durable than acrylic	Very durable
Drying Time	Fast	Even faster, less odor
Environmental Friendliness	Good	Even better (often fewer solvents)

🏡 3. When to Choose Latex Paint?

Latex paint is ideal if you:

• Need a quick, budget-friendly solution

• Are painting a large wall or ceiling in a dry room

• Don’t require high washability or durability

💡 KL Montage Tip: Latex is a great choice for living rooms, bedrooms, or ceilings — as long as they don’t require frequent cleaning.

🛡️ 4. When to Choose Acrylic Paint?

Acrylic paint is the better choice if you:

• Want durable, wear-resistant finishes

• Need to clean the walls regularly (e.g., kitchen or hallway)

• Are painting on a more challenging surface (e.g., wood, plastic, old paint layers)

💡 KL Montage Tip: Always choose scrub-resistant acrylic paint in areas where stains or grease occur, such as hallways, kitchens, and children’s rooms.

🧼 5. Cleaning & Maintenance

Another practical difference:

• Latex paint is limited in washability; intensive scrubbing may damage the paint.

• Acrylic paint is better resistant to moisture, grease, and cleaning products.

➡️ For families with children or pets, acrylic paint is the smarter choice.

🎨 6. Finish and Color Retention

• Latex paint usually has a matte finish, which looks softer and hides minor imperfections.

• Acrylic paint is available in matte, satin, and gloss finishes – and retains its color for longer without fading.

💡 KL Montage Tip: If you want your color to stay beautiful for years, choose acrylic paint from a premium brand like Sikkens, Sigma, or Wijzonol.

🔧 7. Application and Drying

Both latex and acrylic paints are easy to apply, but:

• Acrylic paint dries slightly faster.

• Acrylic paint has less odor.

• Both types are re-paintable within hours.

➡️ Always ensure good ventilation while painting.

📋 Summary: Latex vs. Acrylic Paint

Feature	Latex Paint	Acrylic Paint
Base	(Synthetic) latex	Acrylic (plastic resin)
Durability	Average	High
Washability	Limited	Good
Application	Interior	Interior and exterior
Price	Lower	Slightly higher, but better
Finish	Usually matte	Matte, satin, gloss

👷‍♂️ KL Montage: Professional Paint Advice and Painting Services

Are you unsure between latex or acrylic paint? Get advice from the professionals at KL Montage. With years of experience in painting for both individuals and businesses, we ensure:

• Expert painting advice

• Top-quality paints from premium brands

• Crisp, durable finishes

get a free quote or advice

👉 Contact KL Montage today for a free quote or personalized advice.