The Importance of Understanding VOCs and How to Avoid Them
VOCs or volatile organic compounds are chemicals that are released into the air as gases from products or materials. These chemicals can be found in everyday items like furniture, carpets, paint, and cleaning products, and are known to have harmful effects on human health. Unfortunately, there are very few regulations controlling VOC emissions from building products, furniture, and consumer items in the US and Canada. This is why it's important to understand what VOCs are and how to avoid them.
VOCs can cause a wide range of health issues, including eye irritation, respiratory problems, liver damage, endocrine and reproductive disruption, and developmental issues. Exposure to VOCs is especially concerning for children, pregnant women, and the elderly. These chemicals can be released into the air for several years after the product has been installed or used, contributing to poor indoor air quality.
To avoid VOCs, it's important to look for products with "no VOC" labels and approval labels like Cradle to Cradle, FloorScore, and Green Label. These labels indicate that the product has been tested and certified to emit low or no VOCs. When choosing paint, look for brands that offer low or no VOC options. According to the Healthy Materials Lab, some of the best no VOC paints include AFM Safecoat, Benjamin Moore Natura, and Sherwin-Williams Harmony. These paints are not only healthier for you, but they also provide a better indoor air quality for your home.
It's also important to consider the materials used in exterior structural components, such as siding and roofing. According to the Healthy Materials Lab, some of the best low or no VOC options for exterior structural materials include mineral-based coatings like the ones offered by Sto and Romabio. These coatings provide durable protection and have been certified to emit low or no VOCs.
Another option for those looking to avoid VOCs is to use mineral-based interior paint. These paints are made from natural minerals like clay and limestone, and do not contain any synthetic or petrochemical-based ingredients. As a result, they have little to no VOC emissions and provide excellent indoor air quality. Mineral-based paints also have other benefits, such as being breathable and moisture regulating, which helps to prevent mold and mildew growth. Companies like BioShield and RomaBio offer mineral-based paints that are specifically designed for interior use, making them a great option for those who are sensitive to VOCs and want to create a healthy living space. However, it's important to note that mineral-based paints may require more coats and have a different finish than traditional paints, so it's important to do your research and consult with a professional before making the switch.
In addition to looking for low or no VOC products, there are other steps you can take to improve your indoor air quality. Proper ventilation is essential to reduce the concentration of VOCs in your home. You can improve ventilation by opening windows and using fans to circulate air. You can also consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture airborne particles and pollutants.
In conclusion, understanding VOCs and how to avoid them is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality and protecting your health. By choosing products with low or no VOCs and improving ventilation, you can create a safer and healthier environment for you and your family. Keep in mind that while "no VOC" on a can of paint means no VOC in a liquid paint, it does not guarantee that VOCs will not be emitted after the paint dries on a wall and is exposed to sunlight or heat from a heating device. Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed and take action to reduce your exposure to harmful VOCs.