How to tell between oil-based and water-based paint?

Derrani

I would like to know how I find out if the paint already on the house is oil based or water based

EricL

Hello @Derrani,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's marvellous to have you join us, and thank you for sharing your question about paint.

A quick test you can do is to use DIGGERS Methylated Spirits and a clean rag. Put some of the methylated spirits on the rag and rub a small spot of the paint surface. If the paint comes off, it is water-based, but if the paint stays on and you get a shiny surface it is oil-based.

It sounds like you are planning on a painting revamp. Any updates you can provide would be very much appreciated. I'm sure our members would be keen to see your project.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How to paint like a professional.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric