There are many components of building a green home – Energy Star appliances, vinyl framed windows, the right insulation, etc. What about the colors that go on your walls and ceilings? As experienced Dallas green home builders, we know a thing or two about paint, and the risks associated with some of those used in house painting today. If you’re going to have a home that’s truly green and safe for both your family and the environment, there are a few things you should know before having your walls painted (or doing it yourself).
Basically, there are three primary components of paint:
Pigment is the component used to color paint
Binders assist in the pigment adhering to the surface it is applied to
Solvents prevent the paint from becoming thick and make for easier application
The solvents used in paint is where the problem comes in. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are found in most paints in various levels, and evaporate into gases. No doubt you have been around paint with such a strong odor it gave you a headache. Breathing in these fumes can be dangerous for both painters and homeowners. Today, many eco-friendly paints are zero and low VOC which simply means they are odor-free and emit fewer or no pollutants. Most of these paints are latex based, however they work just as well as those that are more dangerous, and are durable.
Homeowners and Dallas green home builders benefit in a number of ways by using zero or low VOC paints, including:
- Effective. These paint products are durable and provide beautiful coverage, while being easier to clean up – usually a little soap and water is all it takes.
- Reduce or eliminate hazardous fumes. Depending on whether the paint is zero or low VOC, fumes will be almost non-existent. This means safer air to breathe, and painted areas can be occupied almost immediately.
- Fewer health risks. Those with allergies or who are sensitive to chemicals can become seriously ill when breathing in paint fumes; low VOC paints contain far fewer toxins, which means a safer environment.
- Better for the environment. The use of zero or low VOC paints means fewer hazardous effects on landfills, groundwater, and the ozone.
As trusted green home builders in Dallas, the team at Bud Bartley wants homeowners to know that even when it comes down to the little things like painting your walls, there are eco-friendly options that help you take your green efforts even further – and keep your family safe.
