Choose high-quality, VOC-free or low-emission paint and primer
If you don’t follow good practices, the air quality in your home may be worse than outside. Now that homes are more and more airtight, volatile organic compounds and other harmful substances can accumulate in the air and pose a health risk. Many paints and other finishing products contain a lot of these volatile chemical substances that should be avoided for your health’s sake.
Our recommendations :
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For the sake of your health, use paint and primer that is labelled VOC-free or “low emissions.” Although alkyd (oil-based) paints are more durable and offer 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 choose products with EcoLogo™ or Green Seal™ labels.
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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 |