Everybody knows the distinct aroma of freshly applied paint. It awakens a nostalgic feeling in us and is right up there with the smell of freshly cut grass and play-doh. However, as science has taught us, along with the smell of the paint, comes certain chemicals we must be aware of, volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short.
What are VOCs?
Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs are compounds once considered to be necessary components of paint. These are part of paint solvents which keep the paint in its liquid form and lengthens initial drying time, allowing for more time while you’re working. These compounds, however, tend to evaporate over time, producing hazardous effects both to your health and to the environment.
As the traditional paint is applied, the VOCs vaporize and react with the air, creating ozone and leading to air pollution. But it doesn’t just stop polluting after the initial paint application. In fact, as the paint dries, it releases more and more VOCs, leading to continued air pollution for many years. These paints can be so bad for the environment that they are even acknowledged as the second largest VOC-emitting source on the planet, second only to cars.
Along with their effect on the environment, these VOCs are also harmful to us. Health problems like headaches, breathing issues, watery eyes and burning sensations, all the way to liver and kidney cancers, have been connected to VOCs. This means that people who are regularly exposed to VOC-containing paints are at higher risks for health problems in their futures.
Traditional Paints and Low-VOC Paints
Because of the increasing awareness of the public with VOCs and their harmful effects, many people are now shifting to low-VOC paints.
As mentioned earlier, VOCs slow the drying time of the paint, letting the user work with the product for longer. This is because VOCs are actually byproducts of oil-based solvents used in traditional paints. They were once thought to be vital to the workability of the product. This is also the reason why VOC paints still exist now, even when we understand that they are not necessary to the paint.
These days, with the shift to using low-VOC paints, these compounds now have less of a negative impact. Paints with water-based solvents (and low-VOC content) are being used more and more and are the future of paints in general.
It is important to note however, that even though these low-VOC paints use water-based solvents, they still have VOC content, as even the paint pigments and binders which are components of all paints, naturally contain VOC. But by choosing to use low-VOC paints, the environmental and health problems are decreased, and so, using low-VOC paints is still a matter of importance.
The problem posed with low-VOC paints now however, is that these types of paints need a modified application method because low VOC content means that the formulation of the paints are now different. But with a bit of ingenuity and practice, this won’t be an issue.
How to Apply Low-VOC Paints
Here are a few tips on how to apply these types of paints:
- Choose the right brush. It is generally recommended to use brushes with greater bristle count and stiffness to facilitate less dipping and faster spreading of the paint.
- Paint in smaller increments to prevent the paint from drying before you’re done.
- Use a humidifier in the room to lengthen the paint’s dry time if necessary.
- When using a roller, work quickly and efficiently. Synthetic roller sleeves provide a more uniform finish and give you just enough leeway before the paint dries.
Choose Low-VOC Paint and the Right Team to Apply It
Choosing low-VOC paint protects your family’s health and reduces environmental harm, but it only delivers those benefits when it’s applied correctly. As a trusted Bay Area commercial painting contractor and residential painter based in Marin and the San Francisco Bay Area, California, McCarthy Painting helps you select the right low-VOC products and applies them using the modified techniques these water-based formulas require, so you get a cleaner, healthier, longer-lasting finish for your home or business.
At McCarthy Painting, we provide expert residential and commercial painting services across San Francisco, Marin, and surrounding California areas, including specialized protective coatings, surface preparation, and long-lasting exterior solutions. Our team ensures proper application and durability for both homes and commercial properties, delivering high-quality finishes built to withstand time and weather.
Residential Painting
We paint interiors and exteriors with low-VOC and eco-friendly products that keep indoor air healthier for your family, paired with careful surface preparation for a smooth, durable result. Learn more about our residential painting services.
Commercial Painting
We use low-odor, low-VOC paints in offices, retail spaces, and occupied buildings, with flexible scheduling that keeps your team safe and your operations running. See our commercial painting services.
Our Services
Low-VOC and eco-friendly paint selection, thorough surface preparation, and specialized protective coatings, all applied for lasting quality and a healthier space.
Ready to repaint with safer, low-VOC paint? Contact McCarthy Painting today at 415-383-2640 for a free estimate. Book a call now!
Frequently Asked Questions about VOC Paint:
What does low VOC paint mean, and why should I choose it for my home?
Low VOC paint contains lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals that can be released into the air as paint dries. At McCarthy Painting, we often recommend low VOC paints because they help improve indoor air quality, reduce unpleasant odors, and create a healthier environment for families, pets, and occupants.
Is low VOC paint safer for children and pets?
Yes. While no paint is completely free of chemicals, low VOC paints generally release fewer airborne pollutants than traditional paints. We frequently recommend low VOC options for homes with children, pets, seniors, or individuals who may be sensitive to strong paint fumes.
Does low VOC paint perform as well as traditional paint?
Absolutely. Modern low VOC paints have improved significantly over the years and can provide excellent coverage, durability, color retention, and finish quality. Our team uses high-quality low VOC products that deliver professional results without sacrificing performance.
Will low VOC paint eliminate paint odors completely?
Low VOC paints typically produce much less odor than conventional paints, but some smell may still be present during and shortly after application. We help clients select products with lower emissions and follow proper ventilation practices to minimize odors as much as possible.
Can McCarthy Painting help me choose the best low VOC paint for my project?
Yes. We work closely with homeowners and business owners to recommend low VOC paint products that match their goals, budget, and performance requirements. Our team can explain the available options and help you select a solution that balances appearance, durability, and environmental responsibility.