Oil-Based Paint for Walls in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide

Oil based paints for walls can transform their look and protect them from several environmental factors. While there are various types of paint available, oil-based paint is popular for its durability and excellent finish. If you use oil-based paint for your walls in Singapore, you need to prepare and prime the walls before painting. This article is there to help you paint your walls with oil based paints in Singapore. 

What Is Oil-Based Paint?

Oil-based paint combines color pigments with an oil binder (like alkyd or natural drying oil) and a solvent (such as mineral spirits or turpentine). As the paint dries, the solvent turns into gas and the oil binder hardens, forming a solid, shiny layer over the surface.

This type of paint spreads out smoothly, so brush marks and roller lines soften as it dries. It sticks well to bare wood, metal, and old paint, making it a good choice for door frames, window sills, and areas that get a lot of use.

There are a few things to keep in mind (Important to Remember)

• Drying Time: It usually takes 6–8 hours before the paint feels dry to the touch and about 24 hours before you can add another coat.

• Air Quality: Oil-based paint releases more vapors (VOCs) than water-based paint, so you’ll need good airflow and a mask when painting indoors.

• Surface Care: The hardened finish resists scratches, stains, and water, which makes it last longer in busy spots.

In Singapore’s humid weather, high moisture can slow drying and affect how well the paint sticks. To help it dry on time, choose days with lower humidity and leave windows or fans running until the paint is fully set.

With these points in mind, you can decide if oil-based paint is the right choice for a strong, glossy finish on your walls and trim.

Why Use Oil-Based Paint on Your Walls?

Oil-based paint creates a glossy, long-lasting surface that holds up under heavy use. Unlike many water-based options, it won’t yellow over time or peel easily in high-traffic zones. If you need a finish that stays smooth and vibrant on door frames, window casings and corridors, oil-based paint is a reliable choice. Just plan for longer drying times and solvent-based cleanup.

How to Apply Oil-Based Paint to Your Walls?

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Start by collecting oil-based paint, an oil-compatible primer, quality brushes or rollers, painter’s tape, drop cloths, paint thinner or mineral spirits, and protective gear (respirator and gloves). Having everything at hand keeps the project moving smoothly.

Step 2: Prepare the Room

Clear or cover furniture with drop cloths. Wash walls with a mild detergent solution, rinse thoroughly and let them dry. Fill cracks and holes with spackling paste, then sand until the surface is even. Finally, run painter’s tape along skirting boards and window frames for crisp paint lines.

Step 3: Apply the Primer

An oil-compatible primer helps the paint stick and blocks stains from seeping through. Stir the primer well, then apply a thin, even coat from top to bottom using a brush or roller. In Singapore’s humidity, allow six to eight hours (or as directed on the label) for the primer to dry fully before painting.

Step 4: Paint the Walls

Stir your oil-based paint thoroughly before starting. Work in smooth, overlapping strokes from the ceiling downward to avoid drips. Apply a thin first coat and wait until it is fully dry typically eight to twelve hours in humid conditions, before adding a second coat. Two thin layers provide better coverage and a more even sheen than one thick layer.

Step 5: Clean Up

Cleaning oil-based paint requires solvents. Dip brushes and rollers in paint thinner or mineral spirits until the paint loosens, then wash them with soap and water. Dispose of used thinner according to Singapore’s hazardous-waste guidelines. Remove painter’s tape carefully once paint is dry to avoid peeling. Only return furniture and fittings after the walls are completely set.

Pros & Cons of Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint delivers a hard, glossy finish that resists wear, moisture and stains. Its smooth flow minimizes brush and roller marks, making it ideal for decorative trim and high-traffic areas. The drawbacks include lengthy drying times six to eight hours to touch-dry and up to 24 hours between coats and higher VOC emissions, which require good airflow and a suitable mask. Cleanup also needs solvents rather than water. Choose oil-based paint when durability and a sleek sheen matter most.

Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Paint

Oil-based paint uses a solvent carrier and yields a shiny, durable coat that self-levels to hide application marks. Water-based (latex) paint dries in one to two hours, has lower VOCs and cleans up with soap and water. Latex paints resist yellowing but can show brush strokes more easily. For walls and ceilings, water-based paint often makes sense due to its quick drying and easy cleanup. For trim, doors and areas that face heavy wear, oil-based paint remains the stronger option.

Primer Selection & Recommendations

An oil-compatible primer labeled “alkyd” or “solvent-based” ensures proper adhesion and stain blocking. Nippon Vinilex 5170 offers excellent stain resistance and bonds well to wood. Benjamin Moore Fresh Start Alkyd Primer seals knots and tannins effectively. Berger Plastaseal dries faster and includes mildew protection. Apply one even coat, allow six to eight hours for drying in well-ventilated conditions, then proceed with your paint for a lasting finish.

Singapore-Specific Tips

Singapore’s humidity can significantly slow drying and affect adhesion. Plan painting projects during drier months (January to March) or on days when the forecast shows lower humidity. Keep windows open or use fans and dehumidifiers to boost airflow. Avoid painting just before heavy rain or storms, as excess moisture can cause bubbling or peeling. Before tackling the full wall, test a small section to confirm dry times and final appearance under local conditions.

Ready to Transform Your Walls?

Using the right tools, primer and timing, you can achieve a durable, high-gloss finish that withstands Singapore’s humid climate. Follow the steps above for a reliable DIY result, or hire a painting service singapore for expert assistance. Test a small patch first to confirm the color, drying time and adhesion before painting the entire wall.

Conclusion

Oil-based paint delivers a durable, high-gloss finish that stands up to heavy use and resists stains, moisture and scratches. By following the five steps gathering materials, preparing the room, priming, applying two thin coats and cleaning up you ensure a smooth, long-lasting result. Remember to allow extra drying time in Singapore’s humid climate and keep airflow steady with fans or open windows. Using an oil-compatible primer and testing a small patch first will help confirm adhesion and color. Whether you tackle the job yourself or enlist a professional familiar with local conditions, these guidelines will help you achieve a strong, even sheen on your walls and trim.

Frequently Asked Questions