VOCs
Exterior paint contains far more VOCs (volatile organic compounds) than interior paint.
While the VOCs will eventually disperse, this could take days or weeks.
Some VOC-laden substances off-gas for years.
The Spruce / Sanja Kostic
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Interior paint is formulated for indoor areas.
So, four gallons of interior paint will cover 1,500 square feet.
But if you use exterior paint, you must add an extra gallon to paint the same space.
Drying Time
Exterior paint has a longerdrying and recoat timethan interior paint.
Both exterior and interior paint dry to the touch in about one hour.
Ample ventilation speeds up paint’s drying and recoat time.
That’s only if you’re looking to use up extra paint.
If you have a choice, purchase interior paint for indoor spaces.
There are fewer VOCs and no chance of them being trapped outdoors.
The paint base will be clearly labeled as interior paint.
When requesting mixed paint from the paint counter, specify that you want interior paint.
Within the acrylic-latex paint family, choose a gloss that worksbest for each room of the house.
Bedrooms can accommodate glosses on the flatter end, such as eggshell or flat/matte paint.
Paint to Use for Exteriors
Use 100-percent water-based acrylic-latex paint on house exteriors.
This paint, labeled as exterior paint, works for most house siding and trim.
Consider using oil-based enamel paint on exterior doors, trim, and metal for extra protection.
Oil-based exterior paint takes a long time to dry and must be cleaned with solvents, not with water.
But it provides extra-strong, long-lasting protection from scuffs, rust, and extreme weather conditions.
Volatile Organic Compounds in Commonly Used Products.
New York State Department of Health.
TDS Data Sheet - Benjamin Moore Aura Waterborne Interior Paint & Primer Satin N526.
TDS Data Sheet - Benjamin Moore Aura Waterborne Exterior Satin N63l.
