Green Solutions

There are many new product lines that offer "Low" or "No VOCs"

VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds are  solvents that get released into the air as paint dries.  Other household products release VOCs as well, such as cleaning supplies, new carpeting, adhesives, and even some home furnishings.

VOCs can cause symptoms including headaches and dizziness.  The long term effects are not certain, but according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, some VOCs are suspected carcinogens.

Federal Guidlines

The Federal Government caps the VOC content in paint at 250 grams per liter for flat finishes and 380 grams per liter for other finishes.  Some manufacturers have opted to comply with more stringent limits of 50 grams per liter for all finishes set by California's South Coast Air Quality Management District.

In the past, these low VOC coatings performed very poorly. However, through product development, they have improved greatly.  Our favorite is Sherwin Williams ProMar 200 0 VOC.  Benjamin Moore Aura is a low VOC coating.  Glidden - Evermore performs nice as well.  All had high marks in recent tests by Consumer Reports.

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