WoodCentral Forums

Est. 1998 — 27 years of woodworking knowledge

Oil Paint Over Latex

Posts

Oil Paint Over Latex

#1

Oil Paint Over Latex

Yonak

We have some interior trim that was painted using latex paint 15 years ago. Now we want to paint it with oil-based paint.

The kid at the Sherwin Williams store says, "No problem. Just paint the oil-based paint over the water-based."

On the other hand, a friend who does a lot of painting says I should use a water-based primer under the oil paint.

The guy at Home Depot says I could paint the oil-based right over the water-based but, it would be better if I used a primer, which could be water-based or an oil-based primer .. it doesn't matter.

Who's right ?

Re: Oil Paint Over Latex

#2

Re: Oil Paint Over Latex

Dick Coers

I was taught that nothing can go on top of latex, except other latex. Maybe you can use something like Clawlock as a primer would work, I have no idea.

The only advice I will take from a big box store paint guy, is what aisle is the masking tape in.

Re: Oil Paint Over Latex

#3

all latex is not created equal

Bill Tindall, E.Tn.

I have used latex wall paint as primer under oil based paint. But a gloss or semigloss trim paint may be a different situation. In any case if you etch/clean with trisodium phosphate it will stick fine. If in doubt test it. Paint a small area. Dry. Scratch some cross scratches. Stick on some masking tape and then peel it off. If the paint stays on the wood and not the tape you have excellent adhesion.

Re: Oil Paint Over Latex

#4

Re: Oil Paint Over Latex

Bruce, a MN Galoot

Are you sure they know where the masking tape is? I once asked the mgr of the paint department at menards something about a product, and he picked up a can and started to read the label. I walked away...

Re: Oil Paint Over Latex

#5

Re: all latex is not created equal

Bill Howatt

I also use TSP. IMO getting any household grease film and other dirt off is a big part of making any paint stick well to anything.

I also have had good luck putting latex over oil by giving it a good wash with TSP and very quick scuff sand. I think current latex offerings are much better than the original ones of long ago.

Bill

Re: Oil Paint Over Latex

#6

Thanks everyone.

Yonak

I'm taking the primer back and picking up some TSP.

👍 This page answered my questions

Your vote helps other woodworkers quickly find the answers and techniques that actually work in the shop.