Many industrial paints that we use to paint our homes can cause environmental damage. Many commercial paints include plastic compounds such as arsenic and thinners that release volatile toxins into the atmosphere. These chemicals, also known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs oxidize in air to increase the greenhouse effect on the earth. Along with these paints contributing towards global warming they can also be a health hazard if the paint fumes are inhaled continuously after application. In fact, paints with high levels of VOCs are known to cause respiratory problems. These dangerous compounds are emitted into the air by the drying of the solvent into an invisible powder like substance. Although oil based paints are long lasting, they contain more VOC than water based paints. So, what are some ways to make your paint job environment friendly?
Paint is used very commonly in home décor to enhance the look and surrounding of one’s house. But if such a luxury comes with so many consequences, we must look for better and more environment friendly ways to paint our homes. Some of the greener alternatives include choosing a low VOC paint with natural ingredients mixed with water as a solvent.
Natural Pigments
Some of the paint alternatives are unconventional and might require a little bit of digging for details. Although the biggest con of natural paints is that they are not durable enough for painting the exterior of a building, there are no such issues with the interior walls of your house. Most naturally pigmented paints are great because they do not include arsenic, heavy metals or other toxins that harm the environment. Many natural paints are water based or even milk based so, these paints are great when reapplied often and maintained regularly.
Lime wash
Lime wash paints consists of limestone mixed with water to form natural water based paint. Although this paint can be very corrosive to human skin, it gives off a nice glowing and white washed finish. Like other eco-friendly options, this paint is perfect for interior painting. The only thing to keep in mind is that lime wash paints need to be applied in multiple thin coats for optimal results.
Clay Paint
Clay is one of the most common solute for natural paints. Given that clay paints are based on earthy minerals they mostly come in shades of brown, orange and red. Although clay is easily available, maintaining it can be a bit tricky and pricey since its natural components are not designed to be damage-free. It is not possible to scrub or remove the clay paints. Again, clay paint is also recommended for interior painting as it adheres easily to most of the inner surfaces.
Egg Tempera Paint
Egg tempera paint is an eco-friendly paint option that includes fine powder, egg yolk and water. The use of this type of paint dates back to ancient times. Although in ancient times, fine powders of zinc and copper were used to make egg tempera paint, today a less toxic alternative includes using chalk dust.
These are some environment friendly paint options you can choose. Keep in mind that although using natural paints might help prevent global warming and can help preserve the environment, these paints have limited color options and have a standard finish. But if you want to do your part in saving the environment then it is a great alternative to regular commercial paints!
