Oil vs Water based paint

[peweuk]

I used low tack tape to hold some xmas light wire in place on the outside front door frame and the skirting in the hallay.
When I took the tape off recently the paint came with it - down to bare wood in some places and undercoat/primer in others.

I mentioned it to the site foreman (new build estate) who said that it was because of the low adhesion offered by modern water based paints LOL:).

This did raise a question in my mind though, because when we moved in they had to repaint the front door due to scratches left by the builders, and they used an oil based paint.
The question is - how do I tell what paint has been used in the house, outside and on the garage.
A second question - can I use water on ol and vice versa when we repair/redecorate.
(From experience I don't trust the site staff to know the difference).

 

[opps]

I might be wrong. but IIRC rubbing meths will make waterbased finishes become soft.

With regard to swapping between OB and WB. Provided that you sand the substrate sufficiently you should be OK. OB will be more durable but smelly and take longer to cure. WB will not yellow, dry faster and it might be easier to clean the brushes but is less durable.

Personally, as a professional decorator, I opt for oil based finishes but many other pros on this site are happy with waterbased.

Horses for courses.

 

[opps]

Frankly I am surprised that low tack tape removed the paint. In my experience it is so low tack that it doesn't stick to anything.

Which tape did you use?

And how long was it applied for? UV light makes the glue on regular tape turn rock hard. Standard masking tape is "safe" for a couple of days. I buy the relatively cheap blue tape from toolstation. It isn't very tacky but IMO it is better value than the low "tack masking" tapes and it is UV safe for about a week.