Testing for Latex vs. Oil Paint

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Testing for Latex vs. Oil Paint

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Painting and Wallcoverings
Date: 12 Aug 2000
Time: 22:00:58
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43

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Before you paint the interior of your home, a quick and easy test can help you determine whether an existing surface is a latex or oil (alkyd) paint. Use some full strength rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) that you can buy at any drug store or supermarket. With a cotton ball or clean cloth, saturate a small area a rub back and forth a few times. If you see paint residue on the cotton, the surface is latex. If you see no signs of paint, it's an oil/alkyd paint. Be sure to test an inconspicuous area unless you're sure you're planning to repaint the entire surface. If the wall is white or very light in color, use an old dark-colored washcloth or terrycloth rag. That way you'll be able to see if any paint was removed during the process. Again, if you see paint, it's a latex since alcohol dissolves latex-based products.

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