Don’t dip your brush in that paint can before reading this.
VOCs are organic chemicals that quickly evaporate into the air at room temperature. They serve various purposes in paint, such as enhancing application, ensuring even coverage, and speeding up drying.
However, once the paint is applied, these compounds are released into the air, contributing to indoor and outdoor air pollution. Simply put, VOCs are considered toxic. Common VOCs include substances like benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene. Notably, flat and matte paints are lower in VOCs than their shinier counterparts, including satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss.
VOCs affect the environment and our well-being. When airborne, they contribute to ground-level ozone and smog, negatively affecting humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
Prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues, and, in some cases, long-term health problems like liver and kidney damage or certain types of cancer. To minimize exposure to VOCs, consider using low-VOC or VOC-free products, including VOC-compliant paint thinner and acetone.
Choosing non-toxic and low-VOC paint over traditional VOC paint significantly reduces or eliminates exposure to harmful chemicals, promoting safer and healthier indoor environments.
If you're concerned about resilience, non-toxic and low VOC paints offer comparable performance to traditional VOC paints. Advances in paint technology ensure excellent coverage, durability, and color retention without compromising quality. While they may have a slightly higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits and reduced environmental impact make them a smart investment.
Here are some scenarios where VOC paint might be suitable.
Exterior applications: Outdoor projects mean less exposure to VOC emissions, so it may be suitable for fences, decks, or exterior walls.
Rarely used spaces: If you plan to paint an area with minimal use, such as unfinished basements, sheds, or garages, you can consider VOC paint, but consult a local interior painter for advice.
Budget constraints: In cases where non-toxic or low-VOC paint alternatives are cost-prohibitive, VOC paint may be more practical.
Using VOC paint comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
| Pros of VOC Paint | Cons of VOC Paint |
|---|---|
| Easy to use | Dangerous |
| Durable | Not environmentally friendly |
| Available | Restricted |
Ease of application: VOC paint often has excellent application properties, providing smooth coverage and easy application on various surfaces.
Durability: VOC paint tends to be durable, offering resistance to wear and tear and long-lasting color retention
Availability: Traditional VOC paint is widely available in different colors and paint sheens, making it a cinch to find the perfect option for your project.
Health risks: VOC paint emits harmful chemicals into the air during application and drying, posing health risks to painters and occupants of painted spaces.
Environmental impact: The release of VOCs contributes to air pollution and ecological degradation by creating ground-level ozone and smog.
Regulatory restrictions: Due to growing concerns about VOCs' health and environmental impacts, there are increasing regulations on VOC emissions in many regions.
