Charleston Green?

Many consumers are turning to "eco-friendly" paints for both the environmental benefits and also out of concern for their own health.

Type
Opt for latex paints, if you have to buy a synthetic paint. The majority of household paints today are either alkyd (solvent/oil) or water (latex/plastic/emulsion) based. Alkyd paints, which are used mostly for high-gloss applications or to minimize mold growth in areas with high moisture, contain 32 to 42 percent volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as opposed to 2 to 5 percent found in latex paints. While alkyd based paints can be marketed as low-VOC, their VOC content is still usually much higher than that of latex-based paints. Even so, latex paints, which are most commonly used for interior walls and ceilings, can contain other preservatives, fungicides and dangerous solvents in them (see "Potentially Hazardous Solvents" below).

Natural paints, which tend to cost more, are usually made from citrus and other plant ingredients, milk protein or clay. They are better for the environment because most do not use petrochemicals or produce smog, and they're free of preservatives and biocides. Natural paints are best suited for drier areas, as they are less resistant to mildew and molds.

Milk paints are virtually odorless and are made using the milk protein, casein and lime. They contain no solvents, preservatives or biocides, though some do have synthetic ingredients like acrylic and vinyl. They come in powdered form and once opened or mixed with water, they should be used quickly, as they can mold if left to stand for a few weeks.

Whitewashes, which only come in white, contain only lime paste, water and salt. They are a low cost option that, like milk paints, are more fragile and are best applied to plaster, cement or stucco walls.

Recycled paint, often a bargain at under $10 per gallon, is created when a few types of paints are consolidated into one. According to the Waste Watch Center, recycled paint should have a minimum of 50% recycled content and be available in consistent colors. However, because several paints are mixed together, recycled paint is often best suited for areas where consistent color is not required.

VOCs
Clean Air Counts, an initiative to reduce ozone-causing emissions in Chicago, recommends using paint with VOC limits within those set by SCAQMD. These limits state that flat paint VOC levels should not exceed 100 grams per liter and non-flat paint (semi-gloss, gloss, eggshell, or satin), not exceed 150 grams per liter. Often labeled "low-"or "no-VOC" these latex paints are water-based and emit fewer harmful fumes than regular latex paint.

While they generally cost more, "VOC-free," "no-VOC," or "zero-VOC" paints are less toxic than conventional low-VOC paints, and are virtually free of chemicals listed as carcinogenic under the California law. Because most still contain toxic preservatives, chemically sensitive people should avoid areas exposed to VOC-free paint.

(NOTE: The toxic substances above can be found in both alkyd- or latex-based paints)

Usage Tips

Only buy the amount of paint you'll need to complete a project. If that's not possible, store it safely or dispose of it according to your local municipal regulations.

Always read all labels before starting a paint job.

When painting indoors, make sure to wear a respirator, open all windows and use fans to vent fumes.

Pregnant women and people with allergies or asthma should not paint and should stay out of the area until after the paint has dried. It is advisable to wait at least 48 hours before inhabiting a freshly painted room.

Keep all paint products in their original containers and do not leave them open when not in use.

In pre-1978 homes, test painted surfaces for lead before sanding. If lead is found, contact a professional for remediation. Call Marshall for a copy of the Federal Leadbased paint booklet - 843-532-3214

When sanding or removing paint, wear a dust mask or respirator and keep the area well ventilated since this process generates carcinogenic crystalline silica dust.

Store paint in its original container by covering the opening with plastic wrap and making sure the lid fits tightly. Storing the paint can upside down will create a tight seal around the lid, keeping it fresh until you need it again.

The best way to dispose of paint is to use it. If you can not, try donating it or exchanging it with someone who can use it.

Reprinted courtesy of http://www.thegreenguide.com

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on 04/13/10

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