Going beyond low-VOC paints

While the use of low-VOC paints is of vital importance in making exteriors and interiors ‘greener’ and safer, other factors, too, contribute towards indoor air quality (IAQ), in the opinion of industry insiders.

“Low-VOC is only one aspect of the paint, but the paint should also be free from other hazardous elements, such as formaldehyde, alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs), mercury and lead, which negatively impact IAQ,” said Hafeez Sidhique, Concept Manager, Technical Sales Support and Decorative Segment of Jotun Paints. He elaborated that paints should also contain thermal coating and anti-reflective properties, which result in energy savings.

On the performance factor of low-VOC paints, Sidhique pointed out that the market has accepted the product because of its odourless properties and durability. This obviates the problem of frequent repainting, compared to conventional paints, thus saving on transportation and use of raw materials needed in manufacturing paints.