VOCs in Paint: What Homeowners Need to Know

VOCs have become a major consideration in paint selection. But what exactly are they, and how much should you worry? Here's a science-based look at VOCs in paint.

What Are VOCs?

VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds—chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature. In paint, they're part of the solvent system that keeps paint liquid in the can and evaporate as paint dries.

Common VOCs in Paint

• Formaldehyde
• Benzene
• Toluene
• Ethylene glycol
• Various petroleum distillates

Health Concerns

Short-Term Exposure

High VOC exposure during and after painting can cause:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
• Nausea
• Worsening of asthma symptoms

Long-Term Concerns

Some VOCs are associated with:

• Respiratory problems
• Allergic reactions
• Some are classified as potential carcinogens

Who's Most Sensitive?

• Children and infants
• Pregnant women
• People with respiratory conditions
• Those with chemical sensitivities

VOC Levels Explained

Standard Paint

Traditional oil-based paints: 300-400 g/L VOC
Traditional latex paints: 50-200 g/L VOC

Low-VOC Paint

Under 50 g/L for flat finishes
Under 150 g/L for glossy finishes
Most major brands now offer low-VOC options

Zero-VOC Paint

Contains less than 5 g/L (not truly zero, but very low)
Important note: Colorants can add VOCs—ask about zero-VOC colorants

Performance Trade-offs

Historically, lower VOC meant compromises:

• Less durability
• Harder application
• Slower drying
• Fewer color options

Modern technology has largely eliminated these issues. Today's low and zero-VOC paints from major manufacturers perform comparably to traditional formulas.

Recommendations

Best Low/Zero-VOC Paints

• Benjamin Moore Natura (Zero-VOC)
• Sherwin-Williams Harmony (Zero-VOC)
• Benjamin Moore Aura (Low-VOC)
• Sherwin-Williams Duration (Low-VOC)

For Sensitive Individuals

Choose zero-VOC paint AND zero-VOC colorants. Ensure good ventilation during and after painting. Consider staying elsewhere for 24-48 hours after painting.

For Children's Rooms

Always use low or zero-VOC. Wait at least 24-48 hours before the child sleeps in the room. Keep windows open when possible for the first week.

Ventilation Matters

Even with low-VOC paint:

• Open windows during painting
• Use fans to circulate air
• Continue ventilating for several days after
• Most off-gassing occurs in first 24-72 hours

The Bottom Line

For most interior projects, there's little reason NOT to choose low or zero-VOC paint. Performance is comparable, prices are similar, and you're protecting your family's health and indoor air quality. For exterior paint, VOCs are less of a concern since they dissipate into outdoor air.