east valley living / 202 HOMES /
“Painting can be fun and rewarding. It can also cost you your marriage.” —Kiel Nahs
paints use a petrochemical base containing
volatile organic compounds also known
as VOCs. Experts say the high-vapor
pressure of the traditional paint base
evaporates into the air and remains potent
for up to five years.
Not only do these greener options
improve our health, they leave a minimal
environmental impact, and many brand
makers even strive to use fully recycled
packaging. Now how’s that for green?
Of course, if these were the only facts
that mattered to a homeowner, everyone
would be using eco-friendly paint. There
are disadvantages to these paints.
“Sometimes, depending on where you
buy it, you may be limited to color and
sheen levels,” says Nahs. Lighter colors
are typically easier to find in low-VOC
or non-VOC paints. Also, the cost is
higher with eco-friendly paints due to a
multitude of reasons including research,
materials and development. Nahs says,
what is
GREENGUARD?
“GREENGUARD Environmental
Institute is a non-profit organization
whose mission is to safeguard human
health and quality of life by helping
buyers identify interior products and
materials that have low chemical
emissions...further promoting global
sustainability, environmental health
and safety.”—GreenGuard.org
“Traditional paint may run $14 to $29 a
gallon, while eco-friendly paint will cost
you between $30 to $65 per gallon.”
Nahs also suggests homeowners research
different brands of environmentally
friendly paint for reviews of durability.
“Some eco paints are not as tough as
conventional paints,” he says. “Some won’t
stand up to cleaning and moisture found in
kitchens and bathrooms.”
Also pay attention to the VOC
levels – low-VOC or non-VOC paints
and certifications such as organic and
GREENGUARD Environmental
Institute certified should be visible on
the can’s label. If you’re looking to hire a
professional painter, be sure to ask about
their experience with eco-friendly paints.
“If you are the DIY type, then go
for it,” says Nahs. “Painting can be fun
and rewarding. It can also cost you your
marriage,” he jokes. “When in doubt, hire
it out. A professional painter with a license
and insurance is buying peace of mind in
knowing the job will be done right.”
Kimberly Gunning is a freelance writer,
Valley resident and regular contributor of
202 Magazine. To reach Kiel Nahs, visit
PaintingExpertsofAZ.com.
202 magazine \ october 2013 \ 202magazine.com
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