Non-Toxic Paint Options

Are you looking for an eco-friendly alternative for your interior paint project? If you are concerned about the gasses that are emitted during the painting process and want something that will give off less odor as well as reduce indoor air quality concerns, this is the blog for you. 

Since many traditional paints can emit harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds), it is important to consider your paint components before you begin any paint project. Let’s take a look at what VOCs are and what some alternatives are that will be better for the environment and your family. 

What Are VOCs? 

According to Benjamin Moore Paints, “VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. When it comes to paint, VOCs are often added for better open time and freeze-thaw resistance and are emitted as gasses from liquids that evaporate as paint dries. Certain VOCs are harmful when inhaled and may pose indoor air quality concerns.”

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explains that paints are one of the top products that have VOCs that could ​​contain a “variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects.” 

The EPA describes the potential health effects such as; eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, loss of coordination and nausea, and damage to the liver, kidney and central nervous system. Some organics can cause cancer in animals; some are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans.

Knowing these potential health hazards, you may be wondering what alternatives are on the market. 

Low & Zero VOC Alternatives 

As a Benjamin Moore Official Dealer we are confident in the premium Benjamin Moore products that are zero and/or low-VOC. The product lines that have zero or low-volatile organic compounds include AURA®, Regal® Select, Ben®, Eco Spec® WB, and Ultra Spec® 500. 

To be labeled low or zero-VOC, a paint must be within a certain range for the sheen/finish. For flat or matte finishes, a paint with fewer than 50 grams of VOCs per liter is generally considered to be low-VOC, while a zero-VOC paint is one with fewer than 5 grams per liter. 

For higher gloss finishes such as satin or semi-gloss, the paint is considered low-VOC if they have fewer than 100 grams of VOCs per liter.

Looking for an innovative zero-voc colorant? Look no further than the Gennex® Color Technology produced by Benjamin Moore. Many tints that are added to paints contain chemicals that increase the level of VOC in the product. Gennex Color Technology allows low-VOC paints to remain so even after being tinted. Eco Spec® is Benjamin Moore’s “greenest” interior premium paint. It boasts zero VOCs and zero emissions. 

To discuss products that are highly eco-friendly for your home, talk to our team and request a free estimate. We will happily discuss the options for your home including low and zero VOC options. 

Categorised in: Exterior painting, Interior painting, Jerry Enos, Safety