The Differences Between Vinyl And Acrylic Paint (& Which One Is Best For Your Project)

Whether tackling a home renovation or completing a craft project, your paint options are plentiful. While it's nice to be able to find a paint that's a perfect match for the task at hand, the number of options to pick from can be mind-numbing. Not only do you want to avoid mistakes everyone makes when choosing a paint color for their home, but you also have to consider paint type and sheen. Two paint types you may have come across include vinyl and acrylic. At first glance, it's easy to assume they're the same. After all, they both can be purchased as craft paints or be additives in latex house paint. But one key difference between the two is their sheens. Vinyl paints tend to be sold in mostly matte finishes, while acrylic paints are available in a wide range of sheens. Their applications also differ, especially when choosing paint for interior versus exterior use.

Vinyl and acrylic paints are both durable, hard-wearing, and water-based. In home improvement stores, you may see them labeled as vinyl emulsion or acrylic emulsion paints, which are simply mixtures of a water base, pigments, and a binder.

If you're wondering how to choose the best paint finish for your home, the right option depends on the room's intended use. While vinyl and acrylic paint are similar on many levels, their different binding agents give them distinct characteristics. In the end, selecting the right paint type comes down to where you're using it and the look you want to achieve, making vinyl and acrylic each valuable in different ways.

The binding agent in vinyl paint is vinyl acetate, a chemical used to create adhesives, paint coatings, plastics, and more. Vinyl emulsion paint is sometimes available in semi-gloss or textured sheens, but is most often sold as a matte paint, which is ideal for hiding surface imperfections. One of the biggest drawbacks to vinyl paint is that it doesn't perform as well in humid or high-moisture areas, so it's best to skip it in the kitchen, bathroom, or on exterior projects. Use vinyl emulsion paint in places where you want a flat, non-reflective sheen, such as on ceilings or bedroom or living room walls. It's also a good option for art projects that require a flat finish.

Acrylic paints use acrylic polymer emulsion binders, which offer UV protection, making them ideal for outdoor projects. Acrylic paint also has higher mold- and mildew-resistance, making it a top pick for bathrooms and other humid areas. It's even the type of paint that some DIYers swear is best for kitchen cabinets. While flexible, it dries quickly, which can make it tricky to work with on large areas like walls. Unlike vinyl paint, which is most often available in a matte sheen, acrylic paint is available in numerous finishes. Its quick drying time, wide availability, and range of sheens also make it a great choice for murals and other art projects.