PAINT 101 – BUT IS IT GREEN?

The majority of household paints today are either alkyd (solvent/oil) or water (latex/plastic/emulsion) based. Oil based paints contain 32 to 42% VOCs, as opposed to 2 to 5 % found in latex paints. The VOCs emitted by solvents found in most paints contribute to the formation of ground level ozone and indoor air pollution. A study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) showed that indoor VOC levels were 1,000 times more than outdoor levels after painting, as the paint was drying. Another study showed that VOCs were released at a higher rate from paint that was being applied and drying than from any other product used indoors.

In sunlight, some organic solvents used in paint can react with nitrous oxides in the atmosphere to form smog. While latex paint produce less VOC’s than oil-based paints, the volume of their use is extremely large—totaling 87 percent of all indoor paint sold in the United States—and emissions from latex paints are a major source or indoor air pollution.

How to Get a Healthier Interior

Savvy consumers and designers are now turning to “eco-friendly” paints for both the environmental benefits and also out of concern for their own health. It is best to avoid alkyd- or oil-based paints, even if they are labeled low-VOC, and to seek latex paints instead. A wide variety of “natural” paints are available for purchase.

Flat paint VOC levels should not exceed 100 grams per liter and non-flat paint (semi-gloss, gloss, eggshell, or satin), not exceed 150 grams per liter. Often labeled “low-”or “no-VOC” these latex paints are water-based and emit fewer harmful fumes than regular latex paint. While they generally cost more, “VOC-free,” “no-VOC,” or “zero-VOC” paints are less toxic than conventional low-VOC paints, and are virtually free of chemicals listed as carcinogenic under the California law. Because most still contain some toxic preservatives, chemically sensitive people should avoid areas exposed to VOC-free paint.

Biocides such as preservatives and fungicides are commonly added to conventional latex paints to fend off mold and mildew, extending shelf-life. “Low-biocide” paints are 90 to 95 percent free of biocides, but may still have high VOC levels. They are best suited for use in indoor dry areas because they are more susceptible to mildew.

There are a number of paint manufacturers who make low VOC or zero-VOC paints, but some are better than others. In some cases, these paints are very difficult to apply, or don’t cover well, or don’t hold up well,, or the colors are just not attractive or diverse enough. A personal favorite is Benjamin Moore Eco-Spec paint which has very low VOCs and Benjamin Moore Matte Finish #221 which has a higher VOC content but still has very little odor.Their newest paint, Natura is VOC-free. These paints hold up wonderfully well, the colors are gorgeous and they are well worth the little extra you will pay. It is no surprise that Benjamin Moore is the favorite paint of interior designers.

Manufacturer Contact Information
AFM, www.afmsafecoat.com, 800/239-0321
Aglaia, www.beeck.de
Auro Paint, www.aurousa.com, 883/302-9352
Benjamin Moore, www.benjaminmoore.com, 800/344-0400
BioShield, www.bioshieldpaint.com, 800/621-2591
Chem-Safe, 210/657-5321
Coronado Paint, www.coronadopaint.com, 800/883-4193
Duron Paints & Wallcoverings, www.duron.com, 800/72-DURON
ICI Dulux, www.iciduluxpaints.com, 216/344-8000
Innovative Formulations Company, www.innovativeformulations.com, 520/628-1553
Old Fashioned Milk Paint Company, www.milkpaint.com, 978/448-6336