What oil-based paint means
Oil-based paint uses alkyd or oil binders and thins with mineral spirits. It levels well and dries hard but yellows over time and has strong fumes.
Also called alkyd paint.
Where it matters on a painting job
Many painters now use waterborne alkyds for trim to get a similar finish with easier cleanup. Check local rules on solvent based coatings before you quote oil.
What it costs
Jobs that involve oil-based paint are priced in the trim and baseboard painting cost guide: about $1,250 typical, usually $850 to $2,750. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The paint calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Paint calculator
- Cost guide: Trim and baseboard painting cost
- Tools, templates and guides: Free painting resources