There is nothing like the smell of a freshly painted interior. Every space seems to be cleaner and brighter. Most people welcome the sharp scent of painted walls and surfaces, for these reasons.
Some painting manufacturers, however, know that more customers want paints on their walls that are environmentally friendly. Such environmentally friendly paints usually contain fewer volatile organic compounds (also called VOCs).
What Are VOCs?
Many volatile organic compounds are present in most paints. These VOCs are unstable and carbon-based gases which emanate as it dries from paint. Also, VOCs can emerge several years after painting.
People who are concerned with the earth's atmosphere point out the ozone layer is depleted by VOCs. Many may suffer mild respiratory discomfort from paint high in VOCs. In VOCs, latex paints are usually lower than oil or enamel paints. However, if your paints are eco-friendly, many people feel more at ease.
How to Find Greener Options
When it's time to paint in your home or business, you may feel unsure which paint you want to use. Luckily, your painting contractors understand the chemical makeup of multiple brands of paint. Don't be shy-asking about paint brands and listings of their ingredients to the painting company.
In the meantime, you can benefit from knowing more about low-VOC and natural paints that are made today:
Paints made from plants
Painting companies also carry non-toxic paints derived from natural products such as plant oils, beeswax, essential oils, mineral colors, resins, clay, talcum, natural latex, and many other ingredients. In fact, water-based paint does not give off a pungent odor and typically induces minimal (or no) allergic reactions in humans or animals. These paints emit zero VOCs.
Zero-VOC Paints
In order to qualify as zero VOC, both plant-based and non-plant-based paints must contain less than five grams of VOC per litre. However, it is worth investigating. Some paints add additional VOCs to the fungicides and colorants. Ask your experienced painter for more information before deciding what kind of paint you want.
Low-VOC Paints
As stated above, Low-VOC paint causes fewer emissions than standard solvent-based paints. Many low-VOC paints are made from water rather than petroleum solvents, so these paints contain lower formaldehyde levels and other chemicals.
A liter of paint should not exceed 200 VOC grams to qualify as a low VOC. If the varnishes do not exceed 300 grams, they count as low VOC.
Why Green Paint Matters
It is true that many people do not experience any harmful effects of any kind of paint. However, eco-friendly paint is a perfect way to go for allergy sufferers or those who only want to use green materials.
Here are only a few benefits that you'll receive by asking your painter to go green:
Price – The majority of zero-VOC paints price the same as standard latex paints. When you call for a quote your painter will clarify the price.
Health – Green paint during the painting process produces little (or no) fumes. Even those with asthma or allergies will breathe better after painters have finished their work.
Responsibility – Eco-friendly paints support those concerned with carbon emissions. You also lower your carbon footprint when you ask for zero-VOC paint, and protect the earth.
Color – Even green paints come in a wider range of colors than in the past. As manufacturing techniques improve, paint companies can guarantee low-VOCs in virtually any color you choose.
Do you have any questions about low-VOC, zero-VOC or regular paint? Contact your Professional Painters in Avon, CT today for more information.
