The Enamel vs Acrylic Paint Guide: Differences & When To Use Them
- Devin Spahr
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Picking the right paint matters more than you might think. In this post, we’ll look at enamel vs acrylic paint. Knowing when to use the right kind of paint can be a deal-breaker when you’re starting a project. Use the wrong one, and you could end up with peeling, cracking, or a finish that just doesn’t hold up. Nobody wants to repaint something twice. As you read on, we’ll break down the difference between the two and go over when each one works best.
What is Enamel Paint?
Enamel paint is a type of paint that dries to a hard, glossy finish. It’s known for being durable and resistant to moisture, heat, and wear. You’ll often find it used on surfaces that need to hold up over time, like cabinets, trim, doors, and metal fixtures. It usually takes longer to dry than other paints, but that slow drying time helps it level out for a smoother look.
Is Enamel Paint Oil-Based?
Traditionally, enamel paint was oil-based, which is why it's known for being so durable and having a glossy, smooth finish. However, not all enamel paints today are oil-based. Many modern enamel paints are water-based (also called latex enamel), but are still labeled "enamel" because they dry hard and provide a similar durable finish.
What is Acrylic Paint?
Acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made with pigment suspended in an acrylic polymer. It’s water-based, which makes it easy to clean up with just soap and water. It’s known for being flexible, low-odor, and great for indoor use on walls, ceilings, wood, and even crafts.
Unlike some other paints, acrylic doesn’t yellow over time and holds color well. It’s a favorite for DIY projects because it’s beginner-friendly and dries quickly, letting you move on faster. Acrylic paint is also available in different sheens, so you can get the exact look you want.
What’s the Difference?
Here’s a breakdown of what sets enamel paint and acrylic paint apart:
Drying Time: Acrylic paint dries fast—sometimes within minutes—while enamel takes much longer to dry.
Finish Enamel usually dries to a glossy, smooth, and hard finish. Acrylic tends to have a matte or satin look, though glossier options are available.
Durability and Weather Resistance: Enamel paint holds up better against heat, moisture, and heavy wear, which makes it great for outdoor projects. Acrylic is more flexible but can wear down quicker in rough or wet conditions unless it’s sealed.
Application: Acrylic is easier to work with, especially for beginners. It goes on smoothly, dries fast, and cleans up with water. Enamel requires a more careful hand and typically needs mineral spirits or paint thinner for cleanup.
Composition: Acrylic paint is water-based and contains acrylic resins, while enamel, especially traditional enamel, is oil-based or solvent-based, which gives it that extra durability and sheen.
When to Use Enamel Paint
Enamel paint is commonly used on surfaces that take a lot of abuse, like doors, trim, cabinets, or outdoor furniture. Because it dries to a tough, glossy shell, it’s also a solid option for metal surfaces, like railings or appliances. Enamel is ideal for areas where moisture or temperature changes are common, such as bathrooms or exteriors.
When to Use Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint works well for most interior walls and ceilings, especially in living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. It’s also a good fit for creative projects, like murals or crafts, thanks to its quick-drying nature and easy cleanup. Acrylic is flexible and adheres well to a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, and canvas. It’s a smart pick when you want low odor, low VOCs, and a smooth, matte or satin finish indoors.
When Not to Use Enamel Paint
Skip enamel paint if you’re working on a quick project or something that needs to stay flexible, like fabric or soft plastics. It’s also not the best choice indoors if you want low odor and easy cleanup.
When Not to Use Acrylic Paint
Avoid acrylic paint on high-traffic surfaces or exterior metal unless it’s specially formulated and sealed. It may chip or fade faster in tough conditions without added protection.
Pros and Cons of Both
Enamel Paint
Pros:
Dries to a hard, durable finish
Great for trim, cabinets, and metal surfaces
Handles heat, moisture, and heavy use
Smooth, glossy look
Long-lasting, especially outdoors
Cons:
Longer drying time
Stronger odor (especially oil-based types)
Requires mineral spirits or thinner for cleanup
Less flexible—can crack if the surface shifts or flexes
Not ideal for quick indoor projects
Acrylic Paint
Pros:
Fast drying
Easy water cleanup
Low odor and low VOCs
Works well on many surfaces
Great for indoor use and DIY projects
Cons:
May not hold up as well outdoors without sealing
Can dry too fast for large surfaces
Less resistant to heat and heavy wear
Typically not as smooth or glossy as enamel
Might need multiple coats for full coverage
The Enamel vs Acrylic Paint Guide Conclusion
Choosing between enamel and acrylic paint comes down to what you’re painting, how long you want it to last, and the kind of finish you’re after. Each type brings something different to the table, so taking the time to match the paint to the project can save you trouble down the road.
When you’re ready to tackle your next painting project in the Tucson area, trust the pros at Spahr’s Painting. Our experienced team knows the ins and outs of every paint type and surface. We take pride in clean, professional work, whether it’s for your home’s interior, exterior, cabinets, or trim. With Spahr’s, you’ll always get quality results and service you can count on. We're based in Tucson, but we serve the entire area, including Marana, Oro Valley, and Sahuarita!
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