Non-Toxic Zero VOC Paint
As an option, Choose ECOS or Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint exterior satin wall paint for an award-winning, high-performance, non-toxic, zero VOC paint option that’s safe for everyone. Go green with eco-friendly paints from ECOS and Sherwin-Williams.
Eco-Friendly Paints for Home Exteriors: A Guide to Greener Choices
In recent years, eco-friendly, non-toxic, zero VOC exterior paint has emerged as a popular choice among homeowners looking for sustainable options. When it comes to giving your home a fresh, new look, choosing the right paint can make all the difference.
Not only does the color matter, but the type of paint you use is crucial for both the environment and your health. These paints, known for their low volatile organic compounds (VOC) levels, offer a way to beautify your home while minimizing environmental impact.
Understanding VOCs in Paint
Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are chemicals found in many traditional paints that can evaporate into the air at room temperature. This evaporation can affect air quality and potentially cause health issues, such as respiratory irritation or skin irritation. That’s why choosing low-VOC or zero-VOC paints for your exterior painting project is a step towards healthier living spaces and a cleaner planet.
The Rise of Eco-Friendly Paints
Eco-friendly paints have gained popularity for their minimal environmental footprint. These products, including well-known brands like Ecos Paint and Benjamin Moore, offer a range of non-toxic, water-based solutions. Unlike traditional oil-based paints, eco-friendly alternatives emit lower levels of VOCs, contributing to better indoor air quality and reducing the risk of health problems.
Types of Eco-Friendly Exterior Paints
- Zero-VOC Paints: As the name suggests, zero-VOC paints contain negligible amounts of volatile organic compounds. These options are ideal for those looking to minimize their environmental impact and ensure the air quality around their home remains clean.
- Sherwin-Williams’ breakthrough exterior Emerald line is beauty, washability, and sustainability in a class of its own. This breakthrough product is zero VOC – even after colorants are added.
- Low-VOC Paints: These paints have reduced levels of VOCs compared to traditional paints. They are a great choice for exterior painting, offering a balance between performance and environmental responsibility.
- Natural Paints: Including milk paint and natural paint, are made from natural ingredients like clay, lime, and other mineral-based components. They provide a unique, eco-friendly option for those looking to use materials that are as close to nature as possible.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Exterior Paint
Choosing eco-friendly paint for your home’s exterior brings several benefits. Not only do these paints help protect the environment by reducing VOC emissions, but they also contribute to better health for you and your family. With advancements in paint technology, eco-friendly options now offer durability and longevity comparable to traditional paints, ensuring your home looks great for years to come.
Selecting the Right Eco-Friendly Paint
When selecting eco-friendly paint, consider the VOC content, which should be clearly labeled by the paint manufacturer. Look for certifications like Green Seal, which indicate compliance with stringent environmental standards. Whether you’re interested in Ecos paint, zero-VOC options, or water-based solutions, it’s essential to choose a product that aligns with your environmental values and painting needs.
FAQs: Eco-Friendly Paints for Your Home
What is Zero VOC Paint?
Zero VOC paint is a type of paint that contains zero volatile organic compounds, making it an environmentally friendly option for both interior and exterior painting projects. These paints are ideal for maintaining indoor and outdoor air quality and are perfect for those chemically sensitive.
Can I find an Exterior Satin Wall Paint that’s Eco-Friendly?
Yes, you can find exterior satin wall paint that is eco-friendly, including options like water-based paint and low-VOC products. These paints combine beautiful colors with environmental benefits, perfect for your home’s exterior walls. Aboveboard’s preferred vendor, Sherwin-Williams exterior lineup also includes SuperPaint Exterior Latex Paint, which can be formulated for improved application and hiding, and lower VOCs.
What is Latex Paint and how is it Eco-Friendly?
Latex paint is a type of water-based paint known for its low VOC levels and ease of cleanup. Eco-friendly latex paints, such as those with zero VOCs, offer a sustainable option without the harsh chemicals found in traditional paints.
How do Paint and Stain differ in Eco-Friendly Options?
Paint and stain differ primarily in their application and appearance, but both can be eco-friendly. Look for low-VOC or zero-VOC options in both paint and stain to ensure a healthier environment inside and outside your home.
What are some Eco-Friendly Low or Zero VOC Paint Options?
Eco-friendly paint options include zero-VOC paint, low-VOC paint, and paints made from natural ingredients. Brands like AFM Safecoat, BioShield, and Ecos offer a range of eco-friendly paint products for various uses.
What is a Guide to Eco-Friendly Paints?
A guide to eco-friendly paints provides information on selecting paints that are better for the environment and your health. These guides typically cover aspects like VOC levels, natural ingredients, and certifications for eco-friendly paint products.
Why should I choose Water-Based Low VOC Paint for my home?
Water-based paint is an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners due to its lower VOC content and minimal environmental impact. It’s easier to clean up and emits fewer odors, making it suitable for interior wood and other surfaces.
What Does Low VOC Mean?
Low VOC means that the paint contains minimal volatile organic compounds, typically less than 50 grams per liter for flat paint and 100 grams per liter for non-flat paints. These paints contribute to better air quality and are less harmful to the environment.
Bear in mind that zero-VOC paints contain 5g/L or less, whereas low-VOC paints still contain higher traceable levels of VOCs (albeit less than standard paint). “Low” isn’t regulated by the EPA, so any paint can make the claim. To get the VOC certification, paint manufacturers cannot add VOCs to the paint during creation.
Are there Paints Specifically Concerning Oral Toxicity?
Yes, some organic paints and products like old-fashioned milk paint are formulated to be non-toxic, specifically concerning oral toxicity, making them safer around children and pets.
What are the VOC Levels in Paint?
VOC levels in paint can vary, but eco-friendly paints are extremely low in VOCs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines low-VOC paints as having less than 250 grams per liter for flat paints and less than 380 grams per liter for others.
Why Choose AFM Safecoat or Ecos Paint?
Choosing AFM Safecoat or Ecos paint, such as the EcosSelect Zero VOC Interior Latex, means selecting paint products that prioritize your health and the environment. These brands offer premium plus options with zero VOC emissions, suitable for the whole house.
While we can source these, they are at times, not the most cost effective. Regardless, If health concerns are the number one priority, we will meet your needs before proceeding.
How Can I Find a Paint that Improves the Quality of My Home?
To find a paint that enhances the quality of your home, look for paints labeled as low- or zero-VOC, such as those certified by standards like CDPH 01350. These paints use natural ingredients and are designed to improve indoor air quality without sacrificing beautiful colors or durability.
What Should I Know About Chalkboard Paint and Eco-Friendly Alternatives?
Chalkboard paint offers a unique finish for walls and projects, and eco-friendly alternatives are available that contain lower VOCs or are made with natural ingredients, providing a safe and creative option for families.
