Latex vs oil-based paint, what's your go-to?

I faced the exact same dilemma a few years back when repainting a bunch of doors and baseboards in an older home. Initially, I leaned toward latex for the convenience factor - no harsh fumes, easy cleanup, dries quick - but after talking with a few painters I trust, I bit the bullet and went oil-based.

Here's how it went down: prep work was definitely more involved (lots of ventilation needed, and cleanup was a pain), but honestly, the finish was noticeably smoother and tougher. Five years later, those doors and trims still look sharp; no chips or dings from everyday wear. If durability is your top priority and you're painting something that sees daily traffic (like doors or trim), oil-based is hard to beat.

That said, if you're super sensitive to smells or just can't deal with the cleanup hassle, latex has improved quite a bit lately. Just don't skimp on prep - prime carefully and use quality brushes or rollers designed specifically for trim work.

I get the appeal of oil-based for durability, but honestly, I've switched almost entirely to high-quality latex enamels for trim and doors lately. The newer formulations like Sherwin-Williams Emerald or Benjamin Moore Advance level out nicely and hold up surprisingly well. Prep is still key - sand lightly, prime properly, and use a brush meant for trim - but cleanup is way easier and no lingering fumes...just my two cents from recent projects.

That earlier coating can tip the choice. If the trim or doors already have oil-based paint, latex may not stick well to a glossy, unsanded surface. When the old finish is sound, degloss it and use a bonding primer compatible with the existing coating and your chosen topcoat. That prep can make latex a practical option without assuming you have to stay with oil.