DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES
CSI Numbers
- Division 9 – Finishes
DEFINITIONS:
This section addresses finishes such as paint, stain, and varnishes and adhesives that can be applied on-site.
CONSIDERATIONS:
Most finishes and adhesives contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which outgas and adversely affect indoor air quality. Lower VOC and non-VOC products are now readily available from many companies, however.
The Environmental Choice(TM) Program in Canada has established minimal VOC standards for finishes to receive their Eco Logo(TM). The Environmental Choice(TM) program recognizes negative impacts on the environment and people from VOCs. California and a number of other states have now adopted and sometimes improved upon those Canadian standards. The Green Builder Program strives to follow the Canadian standards.
Low biocide paints avoid the fungicides and mildewcides typically added to latex paint to extend shelf life. These additives are considered harmful to indoor air quality and are specifically avoided by environmentally sensitive persons.
Natural plant/mineral-based finishes and adhesives are available from three German companies. They cost 2 to 2 1/2 times more than standard products. Low biocide and VOC paints also cost more. Low biocide paints can spoil if not used quickly.
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Implementation Issues |
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| T E C H N O L O G Y |
S U P P L I E R S |
C O S T |
F I N A N C I N G |
A C C E P T A N C E |
R E G U L A T O R Y |
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| Minimal VOCs | |
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| Low-Biocide | |
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| Natural Paints | |
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Satisfactory |
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Satisfactory in most conditions |
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Satisfactory in Limited Conditions |
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Unsatisfactory or Difficult |
COMMERCIAL STATUS
TECHNOLOGY:
The finishes and adhesives discussed in this section perform satisfactorily.
SUPPLIERS:
Low VOC paints are becoming available from major paint manufacturers and can be obtained locally. Water based adhesives are also locally available. Low biocide and natural paints must be ordered. There are some local sources for natural paints.
COST:
Water-based and solvent-free adhesives and low VOC paints are competitively priced. Low biocide paints and natural finishes are significantly more expensive.
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
FINANCING:
Available.
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:
Materials that are considered more healthful have a broad-based appeal. Some people may feel that mildew problems could occur in paints that do not have a mildewcide such as a low-biocide paint.
REGULATORY:
None.
GUIDELINES
1.0 Low VOC paints characteristics
1.1 Water-based paints
Not formulated or manufactured with formaldehyde.
Not formulated or manufactured with halogenated solvents.
Not formulated or manufactured with mercury or mercury compounds or tinted with pigments of lead, cadmium, chromium VI and their oxides.
VOC content does not exceed 250 g/l.
Not formulated or manufactured with aromatic hydrocarbons.
1.2 Solvent-based paints
Not formulated or manufactured with formaldehyde.
Not formulated or manufactured with mercury or mercury compounds or tinted with pigments of lead, cadmium, chromium VI and their oxides.
Not formulated or manufactured with aromatic hydrocarbons in excess of 10% by weight.
VOC content does not exceed 380 g/l.
Not contain any halogenated solvent.
2.0 Low biocide finishes
Pesticides and preservatives are added to water based paints and should be in very low levels. Levels as low as 0.01 to 0.025% can be effective in preventing spoilage and not be adverse to health.
Avoid formulations with formaldehyde.
3.0 Natural Finishes
Typically require thinning.
May require that colors be added by applicator.
4.0 Adhesives
Select water-based adhesives.
Companies supplying natural finishes often offer natural adhesives.
