Since ancient times, people have colored their world with dyes made from plant and mineral pigments. Natural resources were used to enhance and decorate their dwellings and express their cultures. In times past, it was not uncommon to have paint made from items such as lime, tree resins, clay, chalk, and milk.
With the abilities of the Industrial Revolution and the WWII chemistry advancements of petroleum, milk based paints were replaced with mass produced synthetic petroleum based paints. These new paints didn't spoil and were readily available.
Synthetic paints have volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate into the air (your home) as the paint cures. With our energy efficient homes, the off gassing may become trapped within the house and dissipate slowly. If your smelling the paint, you're breathing VOCs which could affect your eyes, nose, skin, and lungs.
These VOCs are what make today's paints durable, apply smoothly, provide good coverage, adhesion, hides brushstrokes, scrubability, and long shelf life. Many manufacturers are making advancements in lowering VOCs without compromising quality.
Earth friendly paints are also available today that are made from natural products like milk, clay, plant resins, and minerals. These paints are non toxic, however; have not mastered the same performance results as paints with VOCs or low VOCs. Advancements in coating chemistry and natural paints are working to provide options that are high performing and healthy for us and the environment.
With the abilities of the Industrial Revolution and the WWII chemistry advancements of petroleum, milk based paints were replaced with mass produced synthetic petroleum based paints. These new paints didn't spoil and were readily available.
Synthetic paints have volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate into the air (your home) as the paint cures. With our energy efficient homes, the off gassing may become trapped within the house and dissipate slowly. If your smelling the paint, you're breathing VOCs which could affect your eyes, nose, skin, and lungs.
These VOCs are what make today's paints durable, apply smoothly, provide good coverage, adhesion, hides brushstrokes, scrubability, and long shelf life. Many manufacturers are making advancements in lowering VOCs without compromising quality.
Earth friendly paints are also available today that are made from natural products like milk, clay, plant resins, and minerals. These paints are non toxic, however; have not mastered the same performance results as paints with VOCs or low VOCs. Advancements in coating chemistry and natural paints are working to provide options that are high performing and healthy for us and the environment.
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