Many years ago oil based paints were the standard for painting homes, now a days due to environmental and health regulations latex paints have been a better choice. In most applications latex is better but there is still sometimes you may need an oil based paint.

In the 1970's they discovered that the lead in paints was a serious health hazard, mostly for children. In 1978 the FDA banned the use of lead in all paints.

Some Latex features are that it does not actually contain latex, most exterior house paint is fortified with 100% acrylic or urethane binders, this makes it flexible and breathable compared to oil based paints. Latex is less likely to crack, it allows moisture to pass through with out blistering or peeling and it is also less likely to fade.

Oil based paints are a better choice when painting metal or steel siding, wrought iron railings and metal gutters, since oil based will adhere better and has a less chance of peeling.

So in conclusion, your water based or latex paints are much easier to use, dries to the touch, cleans up with soap and water, you can apply more than one coat in a day, and has a low odor. Your oil based paints dry slowly allowing particles and dust to adhere before it's dry, you can not apply more than one coat in a day, has a strong odor, is flammable and contains toxic chemicals.

If you are looking for an easy way to paint go with the latex water based, if you have metal outdoor surfaces oil may be best, but it is really up to you and your project, so take your time, do some research and your project should turn out great and look good for years to come.

KSCDirect.com stocks Rust-Oleum brand paints.