So, you’ve come across some eye-catching exterior paint colors that you think would look fantastic inside your home. It begs the question: why is there even a distinction between exterior and interior paint?
While marketing plays a role in this separation, there are differences between the two types of paint. To determine whether you can use exterior paint for interior projects, it’s crucial to delve into the nuances of their unique properties and potential consequences.
Understanding the Differences Between Interior and Exterior Paint
To figure out if exterior house paint can be used indoors, you need to know what sets these two types of paint apart.
Interior and exterior surfaces face distinct challenges – while an interior wall might get scuffed, scratched, or dusty, exterior siding has to endure UV rays, moisture, wind, pests, and various weather conditions.
Recognizing these differences, paint manufacturers have formulated paints specifically designed for each situation. Interior paints are crafted to resist stains and wear, while exterior paints are made for enhanced durability to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Consequently, the composition of interior and exterior paints varies. Though they might look the same, exterior paint often contains higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to increase its durability.
On the other hand, most interior paints have low or no VOC content. This significant difference in VOC levels is a primary reason why experts advise using exterior paint strictly for outdoor projects.
The Risks of Using Exterior Paint Indoors
As previously mentioned, This products usually contain substantial amounts of VOCs. These compounds can pose both short-term and long-term health risks to those frequently exposed to them, such as:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Headaches
- Loss of coordination
- Nausea
- Potential for cancer in animals
- Liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage
VOCs are still often found in t, even though paint companies are working to reduce the amount of these chemicals in their products. Using these products outdoors minimizes the health risks mentioned above.
However, when used indoors, VOC emissions can linger for an extended period, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects. For this reason, it is typically not recommended for interior use.
Considering the Exceptions for Exterior Paint
Although exterior paint is mainly recommended for outdoor painting projects, there are some exceptions.
Areas that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces or are infrequently occupied for extended periods (like sheds, pool storage rooms, detached garages, etc.) can benefit from exterior paint’s added durability without putting people or pets at risk of prolonged VOC exposure.
Furthermore, some of these are suitable for tackling indoor moisture and mold growth in areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. However, it’s best to choose this option if you plan to leave the space unoccupied and well-ventilated for several weeks after painting to minimize VOC emissions.
The Bottom Line
In summary, while you can technically use exterior paint for interior painting projects, it’s not generally advised. However, by understanding the potential advantages and drawbacks of using exterior paint indoors and taking necessary precautions, you can utilize the extra durability and resistance that exterior paints provide for your interior spaces. Always evaluate your project’s unique requirements, prioritize occupants’ health, and consider the costs and benefits before selecting the most appropriate paint type.
Choose Ukie Painting
Based in Charlotte, NC, Ukie Painting is a prestigious painting company offering a wide array of residential and commercial painting services. Their expertise has enabled numerous homeowners to elevate their living spaces with striking color transformations. Ukie Painting’s services cover kitchen cabinet painting and wood refinishing, interior and exterior painting, and commercial painting projects.
A 2-year warranty is provided for all painting projects, and the company maintains comprehensive insurance. Ukie Painting is highly regarded for its excellent customer service and transparent communication throughout the project process.
