Use high-quality, low emissions or VOC-free paints and primers.
Unless you follow certain recommendations, the air quality inside your home may be worse than the air outside. Now that homes are becoming increasingly airtight, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other noxious substances can build up in the air and pose a health risk for the occupants. Some paints and finishing products contain a range of different volatile chemicals you should avoid for the sake of your health.
Our recommendations :
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Use paints and primers labelled “VOC-free” or “low emissions” to protect your health. Although alkyd paints (oil-based) last longer and create a shinier finish, they contain a solvent thinner and are not usually as good a choice as latex (water-based) paint in terms of health. Read labels carefully or select products with an EcoLogo™ or Green Seal™ label.
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Costs
Costs comparable to conventional options| Costs comparable to conventional options | |
| Costs slightly higher than conventional options | |
| Costs higher than conventional options | |
| Costs much higher than conventional options |
Level of difficulty
Doable by do-it-yourselfers| Accessible to everyone | |
| Doable by do-it-yourselfers | |
| Within the reach of experienced do-it-yourselfers or professionals | |
| For experts only |