Paint Ingredients:

• Water-based: Water base with other materials. May be latex, vinyl, or acrylic
• Solvent-based: Uses organic solvents such as mineral spirits, alcohols, acetates etc.

Water is non-toxic. However, other ingredients are present. Read the label.
Water thinned. Not flammable. Lower toxicity or non-toxic. Fewer odors than solvent as fewer or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs).Apply easily with a brush or roller. Dries fast. Clean-up with soap and water. Read label and follow directions. Ask for low-odor low-VOC if odors are a problem.

Can be toxic and flammable. More difficult to clean–up as must use a solvent such as mineral spirits. Used for areas that have a lot of hard use, such as a bathroom or kitchen. Washable. Stronger odor.

Paint Appearances:

• Gloss- luster or shininess of the dry paint
• Enamel - can be water or solvent based.

Paints are usually classified as flat(dull), satin, semi-gloss and high gloss. Higher gloss is easier to clean but is more likely to show uneven painting and surfaces. Glossy paints may make color seem more intense; flat paint colors are more subdued. Flat paints may be more difficult to clean.

Usually smoother and dries to a harder surface than other interior paints making them more durable and cleanable

Surface primers:
The base coat when painting new surfaces

Primers are used to seal new or repaired surfaces before applying the top coats or wall covering. The paint container label will suggest proper primers. Primers are used over difficult to cover paint colors such as dark or bright colors and for surfaces that that need to be prepared for the paint coat.

Special paints and coatings:
Paints made or formulated for specific purposes.
Example: textured paint, faux paints, glazes, rust inhibitors, etc.

Specialty paints are available for most surfaces and for special materials such as metal, plastic, etc. Read the label carefully and follow safety and ventilation directions.  Some of these paints can be flammable, higher toxicity.