The Slow Evolution of Paint As manufacturers tinker with chemistry to improve durability, ease of application, and hide, the distinction between water- and oil-based paints is blurred—for the better. Synopsis: The basic building blocks of paint haven’t changed in decades, but residential paint has undergone some changes. Contributing writer Scott Gibson researches what’s new in paint, describing the increased durability of low-VOC products and the improvements made to water-based paints. The article includes interior and exterior paint recommendations from professionals, and a list of new hybrid water-based alkyd paints and specialty problem-solving paints. Responding to wartime shortages of basic raw materials, Sherwin-Williams managed to produce the nation’s first water-based house paint in 1941. Consumers snapped up 10 million gallons of Kem-Tone in the first three years of production, according to an account by the American Chemical Society. Industry chemists ever since have been incrementally improving their water-based paints to make them easier to apply, last a long time, and cover in one or two coats.