SURFACES & FINISHES · PAINT ADVICE
EMULSION, ENAMEL OR DISTEMPER? The Difference, Explained Simply
They look similar in the can — but they are made for different surfaces and different jobs. Here is the clear comparison, and what we recommend for walls, wood and metal.
When customers walk into a paint shop, one of the most common questions is: “What is the difference between emulsion, enamel and distemper?”
These three paints look similar in the can, but they are made for different surfaces and purposes. Choosing the wrong one can lead to a poor finish, peeling, or extra cost. Here is a simple and clear comparison.
A quick naming note for Canadian shoppers: “emulsion” is the common term in India and the UK for a water-based wall paint. On our shelves and on Benjamin Moore’s Canadian labels, the same kind of product is described as an interior latex or acrylic wall paint — so ask for the wall paint, not the name.
1. EMULSION PAINT
- Water-based paint.
- Best for interior walls and ceilings.
- Low odour and easy to clean up with water.
- Dries quickly.
- Available in matte, eggshell, satin and soft-sheen finishes.
- Very popular for bedrooms, living rooms and hallways.
Best use: interior walls.
2. ENAMEL PAINT
- Oil-based, or water-based in modern versions.
- Creates a hard, glossy or semi-gloss finish.
- Very durable and washable.
- Excellent for wood, metal, doors, windows, trims and furniture.
- Takes longer to dry than emulsion.
- Stronger smell, especially older oil-based versions.
Best use: doors, windows, metal railings, furniture and high-wear surfaces.
3. DISTEMPER PAINT
- A very old and traditional type of paint.
- Cheap and easy to apply.
- Low durability — it gets dirty and peels easily.
- Not washable.
- Rarely recommended for modern homes.
Best use: temporary or very low-budget projects only.
QUICK COMPARISON TABLE
| Feature | Emulsion | Enamel | Distemper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Water | Oil or water | Water + chalk |
| Best surface | Walls & ceilings | Wood, metal, doors | Temporary walls |
| Durability | Good to excellent | Excellent | Poor |
| Washability | Good | Very good | Poor |
| Odour | Low | Medium to high | Low |
| Drying time | Fast | Slower | Fast |
| Price | Medium to high | Medium to high | Very low |
OUR RECOMMENDATION
For most homes in the Richmond Hill area today we recommend:
- Interior walls → Benjamin Moore emulsion wall paint (Aura or Regal Select)
- Doors, trims and metal → Benjamin Moore Advance (waterborne alkyd enamel)
- Avoid distemper for regular home use
Benjamin Moore Aura and Regal Select give excellent coverage, low odour and long-lasting beauty on walls. For a hard, smooth finish on wood and metal, Benjamin Moore Advance is one of the best options available — it delivers the flow and levelling of a traditional alkyd in a waterborne, low-VOC formula that cleans up with soap and water.
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VISIT RICHMOND HILL PAINT CENTRE
Not sure which paint suits your surface? Visit us at 10445 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill, Ontario and our team will help you choose the right paint for every surface in your home.
Mon–Fri 7am–6pm · Saturday 8am–5pm · Sunday 11am–3pm.
Email: richmondhillpaintcentre@gmail.com
905-508-9488SOURCES & PRODUCT GUIDANCE
Product guidance checked against Benjamin Moore’s published Canadian information. Always consult the current Canadian label and technical data sheet for the product you purchase.