With a more environmentally conscious population than ever before, there is a growing demand for eco-friendly products in the residential and commercial maintenance space.
Ever evolving technology has made it possible for consumers to be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting an eco-friendly house paint for an interior upgrade, using non-toxic alternatives such as plant based, low VOC or zero VOC paints.
Whether you are DIY painting or calling on a painting expert to upgrade your space, read on for helpful guidance regarding eco-friendly paint.
Why choose eco-friendly paint for your project?
Health benefits
- For painters, applying lower-toxic paint is safer, as they can breathe easier during the process.
- Air quality in the room will be improved with low-toxic or non-toxic paint as they are microporous and walls can ‘breathe’.
- Some eco-friendly paints are a safe long-term option for those with respiratory conditions or allergies.
Environmental benefits
- Eco-friendly paints are often manufactured in a more environmentally friendly manner and emit less fumes into the air during production.
- The production of eco-friendly paints results in less toxic waste than traditional paint products.
- Upon application, the building’s air quality will be enhanced which can help meet the sustainability benchmark and improved liveability.
Higher return on investment
- Although high quality environmentally friendly paints may seem pricey, their compounds and colour-stay characteristics can last much longer than traditional paints.
- Eco-friendly paints are kinder to their surfaces and are less likely to corrode or damage materials over time.
- When the time comes to sell or rent your property, you can advertise that eco-friendly paints have been used, which is favourable to most especially young families, those with any health issues, or environmentally conscious people.
What are the different types of eco-friendly paints?
There are a few different types of options available when it comes to eco-friendly paints. Read below to find out which paint type sounds right for you.
Low-VOC, very-low VOC and No-VOC paint
VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds are chemicals that have traditionally been incorporated into paint products to achieve adherence to walls, decrease dry time and provide a lasting finish. However, the VOCs in paint including, chloride, methylene, benzene and formaldehyde can have a disastrous effect on air quality and the environment.
Low-VOC paints are formulated to contain a reduced number of VOCs to benefit the environment whilst still ensuring the product will fulfill its aims. 50g-200g VOC per litre can be considered a low VOC paint. 5g-50g VOC per litre can be considered very-low VOC. Low and very-low VOC paints in premium quality and colour ranges are readily available. It is important to note, that darker colours tend to be slightly higher in VOCs. Classification information can be read in detail through governing body websites listed at the end of the article.
No-VOC is typically a paint product with 5g or less of VOC per litre and these can be difficult to source and more expensive than low VOC to promote a premium environmentally friendly outcome. A handful of paint brands offer zero-VOC paints.
Plant-based eco-friendly paints
Similar to organic foods, natural paints are non-toxic and made using natural compounds and minerals such as beeswax, plant extracts, resins, and clay. Plant-based paints are becoming a favourable option for environmentally conscious homeowners and technology, colour options and pricing continues to improve to meet market demand. For some, using a mix of eco-friendly paint such as low-VOC paint on walls and ceilings and plant based paints on skirting boards and architraves is a good compromise.
What else should I know about eco-friendly paint products?
Thankfully, in Australia there is the Australian Paint Approval Scheme (APAS) an independent body that tests and certifies paints to ensure they meet stringent performance specifications. In addition there is the Green Building Council Australia which offers Green Stars for eco-friendly buildings, and using low-VOC or very-low VOC paints will help you achieve this.
Many paint companies are embracing the move towards low-VOC, very-low VOC and no-VOC paints by manufacturing environmentally friendly alternatives. Naturally, different paint technologies require different application processes to achieve the best finish using low VOC, zero VOC. It is important to find an interior paint company that is experienced at using eco-friendly paint products so that the result on your walls is as you hope and withstands time.
DIY or Professional Painters for eco-friendly jobs?
Given that the ingredients in eco-friendly paint varieties are different to traditional paint, processes around application, drying times, primer, top coat and expectations are different too. If you plan to undertake you own paint job using eco-friendly paints, ensure your paint supplier explains the best-use tips for the paint you choose. Your professional paint company will likely have preferred eco-friendly paint products that they know and recommend.
Book your Eco-friendly paint quote today!
One Day Paint are all about giving you the best paint job for your residential or commercial property. Call us today to discuss our range eco-friendly paint options or book in a quote.
Breathe easy knowing we have your eco-friendly paint dreams covered.
For more information about VOCs and certification read here:
