A Guide to Enamel Paint and Where to Use It

When I moved into my first house, one of my top priorities was to paint the kitchen cabinets. The transformation was amazing, but the new paint began to chip and scratch within the first few weeks of use. Determined to find a better solution, I discovered enamel paint. This tough, glossy paint provided the durability and washability my cabinets demanded and has held up for years. It is now my go-to product for trim and doors as well.

Ahead, find all you need to know about enamel paint before using it on your next painting project, with tips from Shayne Pancione from Pancione Painting Plus and Rachel Otto from Fleury Lumber.

What Is Enamel Paint?

Enamel paint dries to an ultra-hard, glossy finish and it is typically used on surfaces that require a tough, long-lasting coat. Traditionally solvent-based (using oil or urethane), enamel paint has recently become available as a water-based product.

“Waterborne enamel has become widely available and offers several advantages,” Pancione says. “It’s easier to work with, applies smoothly, and cleans up more easily.” However, solvent-based enamels dry to a harder, more durable finish.

Is Enamel Paint Safe?

Yes, enamel paint is safe to use, but there are some safety considerations to take when using solvent-based enamels.

Oil and urethane-based products produce strong fumes that can become dangerous in a poorly ventilated space. To avoid prolonged exposure, always wear a canister mask and work in a well-ventilated room. These fumes can be flammable, so make sure to work away from any open flame source.

Water-based enamels produce fewer fumes and are a safer choice in a home with pets or children. “The tech has come so far with the water-based products that you get all the benefits of an enamel with less VOCs and flammability,” Otto says.

How Long Does Enamel Paint Take to Dry?

Enamel paints will dry to the touch between two and six hours but can take between 24 and 72 hours to fully cure. Water-based enamels will dry faster than oil and urethane-based products. “The paint needs this time to fully cure to that ultra-hard finish,” Otto says. For example, if using enamel to paint a floor, you would need to wait the full cure time before replacing furniture or introducing foot traffic to achieve the full protection of the paint.

How Much Does Enamel Paint Cost?

A gallon of enamel paint can cost between $80 to $100, “but it depends on whether it’s oil or water-based, and what its specific purpose is,” Otto says. Benjamin Moore’s Cabinet Coat enamel is less expensive than their Direct to Metal (DTM) enamel. “It really comes down to how it’s formulated and produced.”

What Should You Use Enamel Paint For?

For residential applications, enamel paint is a great choice for cabinets, trim, floors, doors and furniture. “Enamels resist wear and tear, including harsh cleaning chemicals, making them the go-to choice for high-traffic areas like doors and cabinets that need frequent cleaning,” Pancione says. Enamel paint in a spray can is also often used to refinish outdoor grills and metal surfaces, as well as outdoor furniture.

What Should You Avoid Using Enamel Paint For?

Interior walls and ceilings are not good candidates for enamel paint. The glass-like finish of enamel paint highlights any surface imperfections, which can be difficult to avoid on large wall and ceiling surfaces. Otto recommends not using enamels on anything your children will use regularly. “It takes so long to cure,” she says. “While it may seem like a good idea on, say, a swing set, there are faster-drying products you can use instead.” The ultra-glossy finish of enamels can be slippery, so are also not a good choice for stairs.

Enamel Paint Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly durable
• Washable finish
• High gloss sheen
• Water and stain-resistant
• Long-lasting color

Cons:

• Long dry and re-coat time
• Expensive
• High VOC levels in solvent-based products

How to Paint With Enamel Paint

• Clean surface thoroughly
• Remove old coatings and loose paint
• Fill and sand any surface imperfections
• For metal surfaces, remove any rust and prime with a rust inhibitor
• Consider applying a primer to all surfaces
• Ensure the work area is well-ventilated (especially with solvent-based enamel)
• Apply enamel in two thin, even coats
• Make sure to follow re-coat and dry times
• Allow to fully dry and cure before use

FAQ

Which is thicker: Enamel or latex paint?

“Enamel is thicker [than latex paint], which means it’s prone to sagging or dripping on vertical surfaces if applied too heavily,” Pancione says. Stop frequently to check for drips while working.

Can you paint enamel over latex?

“You can [paint with enamel over latex], but you should always prime first,” Otto says, “especially if painting over a semi-gloss latex paint.” Scuff the surface of the old paint, then prime for best results with enamel.

About the Experts

• Rachel Otto is the paint department manager at Fleury Lumber in Easthampton, Massachusetts, specializing in Benjamin Moore products. She has 10 years of industry experience.
• Shayne Pancione is the owner of Pancione Painting Plus, a full-service residential and commercial painting company in Easthampton, Massachusetts. He has over 25 years of experience in the trade.