Yes, acrylic paint is a very good option for trim.
Why Acrylic Paint is Recommended for Trim
According to paint experts, acrylic latex/enamel paints are specifically listed as one of the two types of paint optimized for painting interior doors and trim. This makes them a top choice when you are selecting paint for these high-traffic areas in your home.
While traditional oil-based paints have long been a standard for trim due to their durability, modern acrylic formulations offer several benefits that make them equally suitable, if not preferable, for many projects today.
Benefits of Using Acrylic Paint on Trim
- Easy Cleanup: Acrylic paints are water-based, meaning spills and brushes can be cleaned up easily with just soap and water, unlike oil-based paints which require solvents.
- Faster Drying Time: This allows you to apply multiple coats in a single day, significantly speeding up project completion.
- Lower Odor: Acrylics generally have a much less potent smell compared to solvent-based oil paints, making for a more pleasant painting experience indoors.
- Flexibility: Acrylic paint is more flexible than oil paint. This helps it expand and contract slightly with changes in the wood or temperature, making it less prone to cracking over time.
- Color Retention: High-quality acrylic enamels resist yellowing, which is particularly important when using white or light colors on trim.
As the reference states, both alkyd/oil-based and acrylic latex/enamel paints are considered the primary options if you're searching for the best paint for interior doors and trim, indicating that acrylic is indeed a highly effective and recommended choice.
Comparing Acrylic vs. Oil for Trim
Here's a quick look at how the two optimized types compare for trim:
| Feature | Acrylic Paint for Trim | Oil-Based Paint for Trim |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Acrylic Latex/Enamel | Alkyd/Oil-Based |
| Optimization | Optimized for trim & doors | Optimized for trim & doors |
| Cleanup | Water | Solvents (Mineral Spirits) |
| Drying Time | Fast | Slow |
| Odor | Low | High |
| Flexibility | High (resists cracking) | Lower (can crack) |
| Yellowing | Low/None | Can yellow over time |
| Durability | Very Good (especially enamel) | Excellent (hard finish) |
Ultimately, choosing acrylic paint for your trim is a solid decision, backed by its modern performance characteristics and its classification as one of the top types optimized for the job.
