“What’s your favorite paint?” is a question I get asked often and I realized that I have never answered that question in a post, so today I figure we would change that.
When it comes to oil-based paints my favorite paint is a classic that has been around for long time.
I’ll preface this by saying that this is totally a personal preference and there are a lot of good products out there. For me, it’s definitely Ben Moore’s Satin Impervo.
I have not found another paint that goes on as smooth, dries as hard, covers as well and looks as nice as this one. Like all oil-based paints, it dries very slowly even taking a week to reach its final satin sheen.
This is the grandaddy of all enamel paints. If you want a completely smooth surface for windows, doors, and trim that looks as smooth as you would get with a sprayer, this is the paint for you.
Its durability is unbeatable as well since it cures to a super hard finish that doesn’t stick to other surfaces like most water-based paints do.
It is expensive, as most good things are, but it’s worth a try if you are looking for the top of the line enamel paint. There you have my favorite paint!
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I love old houses, working with my hands, and teaching others the excitment of doing it yourself! Everything is teachable if you only give it the chance.
Would you recommend oil-based paints be used in the same application as most latex? My understanding is that latex-based paints while they do dry faster are more flexible and less prone to showing cracks and that “alligator skin” look years down the road. Also how well do oil-based paints cover old oil-based paints relative to latex. Having trouble finding good information and know that you’re a good source. Thanks
I searched “oil paint” on your blog and found this post identifying Satin Impervo as your fave oil paint — but when I look this up at the Benjamin Moore site the paint is 100% Acrylic Latex! It looks like Ben Moore discontinued? If that’s the case…what is your favorite oil based paint? I’m restoring the windows in my 1918 home, and am at the point of painting my first sash. Thanks!
They still make it and it is available in most states but not all. There is an acrylic version too. Just ask the paint rep at the store. It may be hiding in the back.
Have you ever tried Sherwin Williams Industrial Enamel HS or any marine oil paints like Epifanes Yacht Enamel for window sashes or sash channels/parting bead, etc? Seems like these might be high performing exterior oil enamel paints.
I use to love using satin impervious before they changed the formula. It definitely gives you the smoothest finish of all oil based paints. Since they changed the formula, back in the nineties, the whites yellow really bad. I wish there was a way to stop the yellowing because I have not found a paint that matches the character of the old satin impervious.
Agreed Wayne!
I second your recommendation!! I have used this paint on ALL my moldings, doors and windows in my 1940’s house. My kitchen & bathrm cabinets are next. It holds up beautifully in Hawaii’s tropical salt climate. I only use this paint when I paint furniture. No brush marks!!!
The magic of this paint is it goes on gloss and in a week it turns into a mellow sheen. Perfect for vintage homes!!
We are removing old carpet and our whole house has pine floors underneath. Now, what do we do! They are beautiful, but what do we do next!
Depends. Maybe they just need a good cleaning or they may need a refinishing to bring them back from the carpet trauma they experienced.