Can You Use Exterior Paint Inside for a Unique Look? - A Guide

When attempting to improve your home's interior design, you may wonder if exterior paint can add a unique touch inside. While exterior paint is designed specifically for outdoor use, many homeowners and interior designers consider utilizing it within to achieve specific effects. 
In this guide, we'll discuss the most discussed query “can you use exterior paint inside”, the benefits & drawbacks, potential risks, and safer alternatives. 
TEAM KELLEY CONSTRUCTION, a known name in home remodeling and renovations, provides advice to guarantee your home projects remain safe and stylish.

What Is the Difference Between Interior and Exterior Paint?

Formulation

The main difference between interior and exterior paint is their chemical composition.

Exterior Paint

Exterior Paint is designed to withstand harsh outside elements such as rain, UV radiation, and changing temperatures. It contains additional oils, fungicides, and UV blockers to increase durability.

Interior Paint

Attractiveness and indoor air quality are of primary importance. It lacks the chemicals required for outdoor wear but has low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) for cleaner interior air.

Durability

Exterior paint is highly durable but releases strong scents and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful indoors. Interior paint, on the other hand, focuses on finish quality and ease of washing.

Why Would Someone Use Exterior Paint Inside?

Using external paint indoors is rare, but it can be inviting in specific scenarios:

• Unique Finish: The bright colors and durability of outdoor paint may create a durable, industrial look. 
  
• High-Traffic Areas: Some say exterior paint's longevity makes it perfect for high-traffic areas such as mudrooms, garages, and basements. 
  
• Moisture Resistance: Bathrooms and kitchens may benefit from outside paint's moisture resistance. 
  

While these advantages look attractive, TEAM KELLEY CONSTRUCTION recommends that homeowners proceed with care owing to health and safety risks.

Pros of Using Exterior Paint Indoors

Using outdoor paint indoors has a few advantages.

Enhanced Durability

Exterior paint is strong enough to face scuffing, scratching, and staining, making it excellent for high-traffic areas.

Moisture Protection

Exterior paint outshines standard interior paint in humid locations like bathrooms and laundry rooms.

Bold Color Choices

Exterior paint is often available in brilliant, long-lasting colors, offering a variety of possibilities for striking walls.

Versatility

It works well with various materials, including wood, brick, and concrete, giving designers more freedom to experiment.

Cons of Using Exterior Paint Indoors

Despite the benefits, utilizing outside paint indoors has considerable drawbacks:

Toxic Fumes and VOCs

Exterior paints emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are dangerous in enclosed spaces. Prolonged exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory problems, and long-term health risks.

Unpleasant Odors

The powerful chemical aromas of exterior paint can remain for days or weeks, making living conditions unpleasant.

Unnecessary Chemical Additives

Exterior paints contain fungicides and UV blockers, which are unnecessary indoors and may cause skin or respiratory irritation.

Poor Finish Quality

Exterior paint is not designed for indoor walls and may produce a rougher or glossier finish than desired. 
TEAM KELLEY CONSTRUCTION suggests utilizing low-VOC inside the paint to achieve a smooth, safe, high-quality surface.

Safer Alternatives to Achieve a Unique Look

If you're searching for durability, moisture resistance, or distinctive color possibilities inside, here are some safer alternatives: ​

Use High-Quality Interior Paint

Choose superior interior paints that match your needs. These offer brilliant colors, exceptional durability, and a low VOC composition.

Specialty Paints

• Semi-Gloss or High-Gloss Paint: Ideal for high-traffic, moisture-prone areas. 
• ​Mildew-Resistant Paint: Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is long-lasting, safe, and available in a wide range of finishes. It is ideal for creating statement walls or unique looks.

Consult Professionals

Companies like TEAM KELLEY CONSTRUCTION specialize in one-of-a-kind home designs and can propose safer, higher-quality solutions tailored to your specific requirements.

Safety Precautions When Using Exterior Paint Indoors

If you're determined to apply exterior paint indoors, take these precautions: 

• Ventilation: Keep all windows and doors open to ensure proper airflow. Use fans to throw the fumes. 
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Painters should wear masks, gloves, and eye protection. 
• Cleanse the Room: Allow the paint to dry completely and air out the room for a few days before returning to it. 
• Choose Water-Based Exterior Paint: If you need to apply exterior paint indoors, water-based latex paints are safer than oil-based paints. 

Professional contractors, such as TEAM KELLEY CONSTRUCTION, highly advise against this strategy and offer safety-certified interior paints instead.

FAQs

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor paint?

The main difference between interior and exterior paint is their formulation. Outdoor paint is designed to withstand weather and UV rays, while indoor paint focuses on durability and low smell for enclosed areas.

Can you mix interior and exterior paint?

Mixing interior and exterior paint is not recommended, as the different formulations may affect the durability and performance. Exterior paint designed to withstand harsh conditions than interior paint.

Can I use interior paint outside?

While interior paint can be used outside, it is not recommended since it lacks the durability and weather resistance required for an outside environment, resulting in rapid wear and fading.

Can I use ceiling paint on walls?

While you can use ceiling paint on walls, it's not recommended, as ceiling paint typically has a flatter finish that may not be as durable or washable as wall paint.

Can you use acrylic paint on walls?

​Yes, you can use acrylic paint on walls, as it provides a durable and vibrant finish, but it's best suited for small areas or artistic projects rather than large wall surfaces due to its texture and drying time.

Is It Safe to Use Exterior Paint Inside?

No, exterior paint contains VOCs and compounds that are harmful in indoor environments. They can degrade indoor air quality and pose health risks.

What color to paint garage walls?

Exterior paint can be used in garages or basements. Ensure ventilation is done correctly and safety gear is worn. Garage wall paint should be a long-lasting, stain-resistant variety. Epoxy or latex is the best paint for garage walls that can face heavy traffic, moisture, and temperature changes while providing easy maintenance and a clean surface.

How Long Do Exterior Paint Fumes Last Indoors?

Exterior paint fumes might remain inside for days or even weeks, depending on ventilation and paint kind.

What Paint Should I Use in Moisture-Prone Areas?

Use mildew-resistant interior paint formulated for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. It's best to use a washable, moisture-resistant paint for kitchen walls and ceiling, such as satin or semi-gloss latex.

Does Exterior Paint Provide Better Durability Indoors?

While exterior paint is more durable, its chemicals and VOCs make it unsuitable for indoor use. High-quality interior paints provide comparable durability without posing health hazards.

Can you add acrylic craft paint to latex interior paint?

Yes, you can add acrylic craft paint to latex interior paint to create custom colors, but ensure both are water-based for proper mixing.

Can you paint in cold weather?

Painting in cold weather can be challenging, as low temperatures can cause paint to dry too slowly, affecting its adhesion and finish. ​

What is the best color to paint a brick interior?

The best color to paint a brick interior depends on your style, but neutral tones like white, beige, or soft gray can modernize the look, while warmer shades like terracotta or deep green add a cozy, inviting feel.

What type of paint for the bedroom?

The best type of paint for a bedroom is a low- scent, washable latex or acrylic paint, ideally in a satin or eggshell finish, which offers durability and a smooth, soft look.

How long is paint good for?

Paint has a shelf life of 2 to 10 years, depending on the type, storage conditions, and whether it has been opened or correctly packed. Most unopened cans can survive up to 10 years if stored in a cool, dry location.

How much do painters charge per square foot?

Painters typically charge between $200 and $800 per room and $1 and $3 per square foot for interior painting. It depends on factors like the size of the space, the type of paint, and the complexity of the job. Rates vary by location and the painter's experience. While the cost to paint the interior of a house typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the size of the home, the number of rooms, and the quality of paint used.

Conclusion