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What does VOC mean?

Volatile Organic Compounds are a class of Carbon compounds that evaporate at room temperature. These are known to be hazardous to human health and also to the environment. VOCs are responsible for ozone in the lower layers of the atmosphere and this is a major concern as it affects the normal lung functioning in humans. VOCs are found in paints, deodorants, and even cleaning fluids. Considering how widespread their presence is, environmental agencies are now pushing for the usage of alternatives.

Children and the elderly, especially those who're very sensitive to chemicals are more prone to VOC related illnesses. What's alarming is that the indoor air is more polluted than what you breathe outside your house. The Environmental Protection Agency is hence trying to get a VOC regulatory policy that would enact laws to limit the VOC content. You could also help reduce the VOC levels by increasing the concentration of fresh air in the room; have more ventilation outlets. Try and maintain the temperature and humidity at optimum levels as chemicals produce VOCs when it's more humid and the temperature is high. Look for VOC sources and do away with them. Stored chemicals should be discarded as they could leak and lead to a possible VOC health concern.

Paint manufacturers are developing zero VOC paints and low VOC paints. Zero VOC paints have 0 grams per liter (Benjamin Moore Natura). Low VOC paints should not contain more than 50 grams per liter (Benjamin Moore Aura). You must note that environmental laws specify different VOC levels for different products; varnishes have a different limit than paints, metal paints have different levels than wood paints. If you're allergic to the typical paint smell, environmentally friendly paint is a boon for you as it's also virtually odorless. These paints are easy to dispose off as they are not considered to be a hazardous waste. Generally, renovations including repainting should be done when the house is unoccupied. You may also have to wait until the odor wanes. But with zero VOC paints, you could move into the house sooner. If you're using a low VOC paint and are slightly allergic, use a paint whose VOC level is not more than 50 grams per liter.

Remember to read the product label carefully before buying or using any product. Follow the instructions given. Look for what EPA has to say about the paint. Whatever the paint, buy only the amount you need. Switching to such a zero VOC paints maybe a small step for you, but would have a huge positive impact on the environment.



*MyPerfectColor uses Kelly Moore or proprietary paints to create or match any color imaginable. MyPerfectColor has matched the colors on this page based on the color specifications of the original. Select a color to see MyPerfectColor's duplication of the colors you desire. Please note that since the paint used to match this color is unique to MyPerfectColor, the finish of the paint may vary from the original. Please note that, other than Kelly Moore, RAL, and Pantone, MyPerfectColor is not offering the actual branded color or paint product for sale and has no affiliation with the color-referenced brands. MyPerfectColor reference to any trademark is for color comparison only. On-screen and printed color representations may vary from actual paint colors. The actual paint color will also vary depending on the specific paint product, application method, gloss level, film variance, surface substrate, age and light source. Please note on small batch size orders, the potential variation of colors is increased.