Low- or No-VOC Paints

Paints that do not release significant pollutants and are virtually odor free.

Depending individuals’ sensitivities to fumes, people can be driven from their homes during repainting. Most conventional paints contained high levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that produced a breathable gas when applied. The VOCs diminish air quality, and may be detrimental to your health. Today, alternative manufacturing techniques have allowed the development of low- and no-VOC paints that release no, or minimal VOC pollutants. Most major manufacturers now offer special no-VOC paints that are odorless and completely "VOC-free."

Application techniques for low- and no-VOC paints are the same as for conventional paints and coatings and typically cost about the same as a manufacturer's premium line of paints. Because low- or no-VOC paints have less odor and less impact on air quality than higher VOC-content paints, they are an excellent choice for anyone, since VOCs leach out of the paint over many years, posing a potential health hazard.

Courtesy of PATH
www.pathnet.org/homeowners