VOC paint vs non-VOC paint – what's the difference? Our experts weigh up the pros, cons and risks

When you think of the phrase 'toxic,' your mind probably goes to all the usual offenders: microplastics, cleaning products and pesticides. What you might not realize, though, is that your walls could be toxic, too.

Well, rather the paint you use on your walls might be. And, not only could it be bad for your walls, it can pose significant and harmful risks to your health, too.

To break down the jargon, we spoke to paint experts to find out the truth behind VOC paints and using low-VOC paints as an alternative, helping you in the mission to make your home less toxic.

What's the difference between VOC and non-VOC paint?

As Anthony Kulikowski, owner at Five Star Painting of South Bend, a Neighborly company, explains, 'VOC paints contain volatile organic compounds, that release gases into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution and potential health issues, like headaches, nausea, and respiratory irritation,' evaporating into the air as the paint dries and sticking around for up to six months. Duncan MacKellar, technical and creative director of Armour Coat, adds that 'These are the fumes we often associate with the smell of fresh paint.'

On the flipside, non-VOC paints (including low and zero-VOC paints) have significantly lower levels, or zero measurements, of these compounds, making them a healthier choice for indoor environments, particularly when trying to improve the air quality in your home when living in a city.

'Today's low and no VOC paints are safe to use in the home in colder weather, and safe with HVAC systems as well,' adds Anthony.

Importantly, though, Carr Lanphier, CEO at Improovy, highlights that unless you're going with a zero VOC paint, even low-VOC paint will include some, with Duncan adding, 'Low, ultra-low and zero VOC paints are carefully formulated to minimize the emission of VOCs from the paint which means they are far safer for use within interior environments.

'Though, it is worth noting that some paints marketed as such can still release other noxious substances and pollutants into the air such as formaldehyde, which fall outside the boundaries of what is classed as a VOC, so it is important to always check the label details.'

We explore more mistakes compromising your home's air quality in our dedicated feature.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Anthony Kulikowski

Anthony has worked in the painting industry for 27 years, and now owns a lead-safe certified firm that does both interior and exterior painting. Having tackled so many paint jobs, Anthony has 'lost count' of the numbers, but estimates he has painted between four and five thousand homes.

Duncan MacKellar

Duncan MacKellar founded Armourcoat Ltd in 1986, and now has over 40 years of industry experience in formulating, testing and manufacturing paint, plaster and wall coatings, with a focus on developing wall and ceiling finishes with minimal environmental and health impact.

Which do the pros recommend?

So, how do you know what's best for you and your space?

Docia Boylen, owner at Handyman Connection of Golden, says, 'For many reasons, I recommend non-VOC paints and VOC-free paints, but I do 99% interior painting where I don’t need more durability or faster drying times,' which may be factors you consider when painting a house exterior. 'The non and zero VOC paints will also help remove any health and environmental concerns,' she adds.

Additionally, non-VOC paints are the way to go if you're 'all about health and keeping things eco-friendly,' says paint expert Anthony. 'They're great for allergy sufferers or those with sensitivities, and help keep allergic reactions or breathing issues at bay.'

When might VOC paints be the right option?

Sometimes, depending on the circumstances, VOC paints might be the best option for your project. For example, as paint expert Anthony explains, they may be useful in cases where you need something really durable, or when adhesion is an issue. That being said, they should always be used with good ventilation.

But, according to paint expert Duncan, 'there is little need nowadays to use high VOC paints, even for outdoor use.'

He explains, 'Historically paints were made using VOCs because they reduced drying time and helped create an effective protective film even when applied at lower temperatures, which was especially important for exterior paintwork.

'But, in recent years there have been significant advancements in polymer chemistry which means good quality paints can be formulated with significantly lower emissions.

'Paints which make use of these latest technologies can be more expensive, but if your budget allows it is worth spending the extra money to reduce the risk of negative health impacts resulting from VOC emissions within the home.

'Nowadays we are fully informed about the significant health risks of VOC emissions and the importance of excellent indoor air quality, so I would always strongly recommend using ultra-low or zero VOC paints for all interiors.'

As an extra consideration, Duncan also advises looking for ultra-low emissions coatings, which are now the 'gold standard' for indoor air quality, having gone through a stringent testing process to ensure they are totally safe for all interior use.

'These are typically tested to Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold certification standards, which certifies that a product fulfils low emissions requirements,' he adds.

FAQs

Can you sleep in a room with zero VOC paint?

It's completely safe to sleep in a bedroom painted with zero VOC paint – it's virtually odorless, and does not emit any toxic fumes.

What VOC level is unsafe?

When VOC levels exceed 800 parts per billion (ppb) it is necessary to increase ventilation to improve the air quality. Anywhere as high as 2,200 to 30,000 ppb can cause dizziness, nausea and loss of coordination.

If you're interested in more non-toxic living tips, our Solved content editor, Chiana Dickson, has put together a guide to her non-toxic home essentials, to reduce risk in your household and ensure a healthy environment.