When choosing a paint, one of the biggest decisions is whether to use a solvent-based or water-based product. Both have strengths and weaknesses, and there are common misconceptions — especially around VOCs — that can lead to confusion.
What Are Solvent-Based Paints?
Also known as oil-based paints, these use organic solvents such as mineral spirits as carriers for pigment.
Advantages:
✅ Durability – hard, glossy, long-lasting finish.
✅ Smoothing – fills small cracks and imperfections.
✅ Adhesion – bonds well to most surfaces.
✅ Moisture resistance – suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and exteriors.
✅ Colour retention – holds colour better over time.
Disadvantages:
❌ Longer drying times.
❌ Flammability risks during use and storage.
What Are Water-Based Paints?
Also called latex or acrylic paints, these use water as the main carrier.
Advantages:
✅ Fast drying – multiple coats in one day.
✅ Easy cleanup – soap and water only.
✅ Non-flammable – safer to store and use.
Disadvantages:
❌ Less durable than solvent-based alternatives.
❌ Weaker adhesion on oily or previously solvent-coated surfaces.
❌ Colour fade is more common.
❌ Moisture susceptibility – can peel or crack in damp areas.
❌ Raises wood grain, needing extra prep.
The VOC Misconception
Water-based paints are often marketed as “eco-friendly” because they tend to have low VOCs. However, many modern solvent-based paints now compete directly on VOC levels.
For example:
Water-based matt paint: up to 30 g/L VOC
Water-based gloss: up to 100 g/L VOC
Solvent-based synthetic matt: 18 g/L VOC
Solvent-based gloss: 70 g/L VOC
In some cases, solvent paints actually have lower VOCs than water-based.
Eco-Friendliness: Which Is Better?
There is no single winner.
Water-based paints are easier to clean and generally low in VOCs, but may contain biocides and have shorter lifespans.
Solvent-based paints may have higher VOCs in some formulas but can last longer, meaning less frequent repainting and reduced overall resource use.
Final Verdict
Both water-based and solvent-based paints have their place. The most important thing is to:
✅ Check the actual VOC content on the product label or TDS.
✅ Choose a paint that matches your project needs (durability, ease of use, finish).
✅ Don’t rely on old myths — eco-friendliness depends on formulation, not category.
Want to know more? See our VOC Information Page for detailed product VOC levels and safe use guidance.
Customer Services:
| Preparation | Clean, degrease and lightly key |
| Primer | Etch Primer for bare metal (optional if painted) |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 1K QAD Enamel (2K ADC also option) |
| Protection | Clear lacquer recommended for outdoor durability |
Tip: For best results, key lightly after primer cures.
ABS/PVC (most household plastics)
| Preparation | Degrease and lightly scuff the surface |
| Primer | Plastic Adhesion Primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC |
| Outdoors | Clear lacquer improves UV resistance and longevity |
Tip: Smooth plastics rely on primer for adhesion — skipping it often causes peeling.
PP/PE (Difficult Plastics)
| Preparation | Clean thoroughly; avoid aggressive sanding |
| Primer | Strong Adhesion Plastic Primer essential |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC |
| Testing | Always test adhesion before full application |
Tip: If paint scratches off easily without primer, the plastic is usually PP or PE.
| Preparation | Sand smooth and seal with wood sealer |
| Primer | High-build primer optional for MDF types |
| Topcoat | 1K Cellulose |
| Outdoors | Ultra Clear lacquer recommended for moisture protection |
Tip: Light key between coats gives a smoother, longer-lasting finish.
| Preparation | Clean, dry and remove loose material |
| Primer | Masonry or sealing primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K QAD Enamel |
| Coverage | Porous surfaces may require extra coats |
Tip: Masonry absorbs paint quickly — allow longer drying time between coats.
| Preparation | Degrease thoroughly; do not sand |
| Primer | Plastic primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic |
| Protection | Ultra Clear lacquer improves scratch resistance |
Tip: Also perform a testing piece before full application.
| Preparation | Clean, degrease and sand appropriately |
| Primer | Epoxy & 2K HB primer as required |
| Topcoat | Basecoat matched to colour |
| Protection | 2K Clearcoat |
Tip: Always check the recommendations for each substrate and do not use epoxy and etch primer together.
| Surface Type | Unusual, mixed or specialist material |
| Risk | Incorrect paint choice may cause adhesion failure |
| Recommendation | Technical advice required before purchase |
| Next Step | Contact our Technical Services team |
Tip: If your project involves chemicals, composites, heat, solvents or industrial use, specialist guidance ensures the correct system is used first time.