When discussing paint, it’s important to know its types and the solvent used for thinning. Paint is either water-based latex or oil-based. Mineral spirits and paint thinner are two solvents made of petroleum products and used primarily for thinning oil-based paint.. Many homeowners prefer water-based paints and have shifted to them, but some still prefer oil-based paints. Many homeowners get confused between the two solvents and look for similarities as well as key differences. In this blog, we discuss mineral spirits vs paint thinner to guide you with the right information.
Know More About Mineral Spirits
The primary function of mineral spirits is for thinning paint (oil-based) and cleaning equipment. It is made using the petroleum distilling process and is made without using additives. It is odourless because it is heavily refined, and in the refining process, sulfur and VOCs are removed. Owing to these features, mineral spirit qualifies to be used indoors and in compact areas. When mineral spirit is used to thin paint and that paint is used on any surface, the finish is smooth upon drying.
Pros
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It is a versatile solvent with a wide range of uses.
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It has no odour due to heavy refining.
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It can be measured easily and is easy to use.
Cons
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It is expensive compared to other solvents due to its versatility.
Know More About Paint Thinner
Paint thinner is another solvent used for thinning paint (oil-based) and for cleaning. They are made either by mixing added additives or out of mineral spirits. It is not as refined as mineral spirit, but it is also made with the distillation of petroleum, just like mineral spirit. Paint thinner has an odour which makes it less preferable. It’s also advisable to wear a mask when using it.
Pros
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It is an effective and affordable cleaning agent.
Cons
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It has a harsh odour. It could be harsh to the skin.
Difference Between Paint Thinner and Mineral Spirits
Both these solvents are often used interchangeably due to their similarities, but they have distinct features. The differences are based on various factors such as its composition, safety, effectiveness and cost. Here is the list of similarities and differences:
Composition
Mineral Spirits- As the name suggests, it is obtained from minerals (petroleum) and contains unblended 100-per cent mineral spirits without additives. Mineral spirit is a type of paint thinner.
Paint Thinner- Paint thinner has a broader base and acts as an umbrella which can include pure mineral spirits, blended mineral spirits, turpentine, acetone, naphtha or any product used for thinning of oil-based paint.
Smell
Mineral Spirits- It smells like kerosene, but has a low intensity odour because it is highly refined.
Paint Thinner- It also smells like kerosene, but it has a stronger smell compared to mineral spirit due to the presence of benzene. However, when compared to other thinners which smell like chemicals, paint thinner may appear to have a low odour.
Difference in Costs
Mineral Spirits- It is expensive in comparison to paint thinner. It may cost 40- 50 per cent more compared to paint thinners with added additives.
Paint Thinner- It is less expensive when compared to mineral spirits.
Safety Features
In terms of safety, both thinners are equally toxic. As per the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mineral spirits, as well as paint thinners, are hazardous. Benzene can cause drowsiness when inhaled and can even cause unconsciousness. If a person is exposed to these thinners, it may damage their health. Hence, it’s advised to open the window while using them.
Effectiveness
Mineral spirits and paint thinner have distinct levels of effectiveness.
Mineral Spirit- can be used as a solvent and to clean the surfaces because sulfur and toxic VOCs are removed in the refining process. It is preferred by many professional artists to clean their painting utensils.
Paint Thinner- is used for thinning paint, but its effectiveness is not as high as that of mineral spirits.
Where to Use Mineral Spirits and Paint Thinner?
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They are used for thinning oil-based paint when the paint is in a soluble state.
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To clean a paintbrush with wet paint.
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It is used to remove the layer of wax from the wood surfaces.
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To clean oily car parts.
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To clean oily tools or equipment and spray equipment.
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Removing sticky adhesives.
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To remove heel or scuff marks from the floor.
What Are the Uses You Should Avoid?
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Avoid using mineral spirits or paint thinner to remove paint which is already dry. In such a case, only chemical paint works or even manually removing the dry paint may work.
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Don’t use any of these solvents to clean paint or any other substance from the asphalt driveways or walkways because these solvents will soften the asphalt.
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Don’t use these solvents to clean latex paint from brushes or surfaces. This is because pigment from the solvent may get separated during the thinning application.
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Never use mineral spirits or paint thinner to start a fire for charcoal or wood because it may release toxic fumes, causing health hazards.
Conclusion
It’s important to know the pros and cons of mineral spirits and paint thinner for their proper use. Both are solvents used for thinning purposes, but knowing where to use them and the precautions to be taken can help avoid any health issues.
