Understanding VOC Paint

Understanding VOC Paint

With so many different types of paint on demand, it can be challenging to decide which kind of paint to utilize for your next project. One question that pops up quite frequently relates to compounds that people can frequently discover in paint called VOCs. So our painters in Orlando offer you a closer glimpse at VOCs and why they're an essential factor to contemplate when buying your paint.

What is VOC paint?

VOC paint is a pigment that contains Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOCs for short. VOCs are harmful carbon-containing chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and penetrate the atmosphere. Over time, these chemicals are emitted into the air through an off-gassing procedure. These chemicals have been demonstrated to contribute to many health ailments, including cancer, breathing problems, dizziness, headaches, exhaustion, and blurred vision. Pretty nasty stuff!

Forty years ago, almost all paints were oil-based, which meant high quantities of VOCs. These days, due to more stringent government regulations and more attention from the customer, almost all household pigments are water-based, meaning they have low or, in most circumstances, no VOCs.

How long do VOC's last after painting?

Most VOCs from paint will generally release within the initial six months after application. Nonetheless, occasionally this can prevail for longer. VOCs can also come from other origins that off-gas for considerably longer. For instance, some varieties of particle boards can off-gas for up to two decades.

Is low-VOC paint safe for use during pregnancy?

Since VOCs are known to induce health issues, avoiding exposure to paint fumes during pregnancy is best. However, if you do need to paint, it's best to employ zero VOC paint where possible, particularly for interior painting.

What to look for when paint shopping

Here are some suggestions to ensure you're purchasing good quality paint that is not detrimental to the environment and is secure to use in your house.

  • Always order zero or low VOC paint. Also, confirm that the tint used to produce the color that you've selected is zero or low VOC too.
  • Examine it for the Green Seal mark of environmental responsibility on the paint can, which indicates that the contents satisfy Green Seal Standard GS-11. The Green Seal association sets more rigorous standards than the EPA for allowable VOC levels in paint.
  • Most paints incorporate a measure of their VOC count per liter. When purchasing a flat interior paint, search for products containing 50 grams or lower per liter of VOCs (150 grams or lower per liter for a nonflat).

Hopefully, this gives you a bit more understanding of the world of paint. One more suggestion – don't overbuy! Paint can be challenging to dispose of correctly, guaranteeing you won't end up with too much extra color to get rid of. Measure the dimensions of the area you'll be painting before heading to the paint store. Generally, a gallon of paint covers a space of between 350 and 400 square feet. Don't fret if you don't know the precise size of what you're painting. Most shops will help you decide how much you require if you give them a notion of what you're doing. Contact our painters in Orlando if you want a professional touch for your next painting project.

To Top