What’s so bad about synthetic paints?
Synthetic paints release harmful VOCs, which contribute to ozone formation and greenhouse gases. In fact, 9% of all VOC emissions are produced by building coatings. Exposure to toxic chemicals in synthetic paints, such as solvents, fungicides and heavy metals can cause seriously affect our health.
What makes a paint natural?
Natural paints do not contain heavy metals or harmful, synthetic VOCs. They are made from naturally occurring minerals and plant pigments, oils and waxes. They are non toxic and produce no toxic outgassing. They are safe for asthmatics, pregnant women, children and babies. Their manufacture, use and disposal does not harm our environment.
Do natural paints contain any VOCs?
Although they contain no harmful synthetic VOCs, some natural paints contain natural VOCs, such as from linseed and citrus oils. Some sensitised people may react to the fumes from these ingredients with watery eyes or respiratory problems.
Is it true that natural paints are less prone to mould and dust?
Because they bond with the surface being painted, rather than just coat it, these paints allow surfaces to breathe – ie air can pass through. This makes them less prone to mould and dust, thus improving air quality.
Are they as easy to use as synthetic paints?
Some paints, such as Livos, are actually easier to apply, less drippy and give better coverage than synthetic paints.
Can I wash the walls?
Natural paints are not as "washable" as synthetic paints. Don’t use a scrubbing brush or abrasive cleaner. Best to use a pH neutral cleaner, such as Livos Trena, a biodegradable cleaner designed to be used on all treated surfaces, and a soft cloth. Generally, the lighter the tint used, the more washable the paint.
Do natural paints take longer to dry?
Because they don’t have petroleum in them to accelerate the drying process, plant-based paints do take longer to dry by taking in oxygen from the air. Unlike synthetic paints, they tend to go on light and darken as they dry. The evaporation of solvents dries synthetic paints faster, lightening as they dry and producing the “fresh paint” smell.
Are they more expensive?
They can appear to be more expensive until you factor in coverage. We’ve found just 2 coats of Livos paint on bare gyprock gives a professional finish. We were amazed at how easy it was to paint an old brick wall in our showroom, only 1 coat required. Remember, as the price of oil increases, so does the price of synthetic, petroleum–based paints.
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