Eco Friendly Painters in Chicago and Suburbs

Selecting Green Paint

A new coat of paint or stain can make a room feel fresh again, but it often has the opposite effect on the air quality in your home. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), paints, stains, and other architectural coatings produce about 9 percent of the volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from consumer and commercial products, making them the second-largest source of VOC emissions after automobiles.

VOCs are carbon compounds that evaporate at room temperature and react in sunlight to help form ground-level ozone, an integral component of photochemical smog. VOCs can cause respiratory, skin, and eye irritation; headaches; nausea; muscle weakness; and more serious ailments and diseases, according to the EPA. Formaldehyde, a VOC commonly found in paint, is a probable carcinogen. The EPA has found that indoor concentrations of VOCs are regularly up to ten times as high as outdoor concentrations, and can climb up to a thousand times as high as outdoor concentrations when you are applying paint.

This overview covers the environmental and health impacts associated with most types of paint on the market. A good coat of paint should last years, so your choice is significant for your home, your health, and the environment.

VOCs AND BEYOND

When considering the VOC content of any product, keep in mind that EPA and state and local rules are intended to reduce emissions of VOCs that cause smog, not to improve indoor air quality. These rules allow paints labeled “zero-VOC” or “no-VOC” to contain up to five grams of VOCs per liter (g/L) in addition to VOCs that have been exempted from the rules. The GS-11 paint standard developed by the nonprofit organization Green Seal sets comprehensive environmental requirements for low-VOC, low-toxic paints; the standard was updated (with more stringent requirement) in 2008. To be certified by Green Seal, flat paints cannot contain more than 50 g/L of VOCs, and non-flat paints cannot contain more than 100 g/L of VOCs. Low- and no-VOC paints may also contain other compounds that affect air quality. While some of these are known and can be avoided, others are not. Manufacturers are not required to disclose all the chemicals used in their products; some ingredients are deemed proprietary information or are used in such small quantities that they do not have to be reported.

Beyond indoor air pollutants, many paints are made with other toxic substances and chemicals that come from nonrenewable resources or are energy-intensive or polluting to produce, so even no-VOC paints and stains can affect the environment. Green Seal’s paint certification standards prohibit numerous non-VOC compounds, including heavy metals, carcinogens, and ozone-depleting compounds.

COMPOSITION OF PAINT

Paint has three main components: Pigment gives it color; the binder or resin makes the pigment stick when the paint is applied and forms a solid layer of paint; and the carrier or solvent keeps the paint in liquid form and evaporates once the paint is exposed to air. Other additives are sometimes used to thicken paint (such as chalk, which is nontoxic) or give it characteristics such as mold resistance (which requires toxic materials).

Pigment can contribute to a paint’s emissions in a significant way. Much of the latex and oil paint sold in stores comes as white base paint, and colorants (composed of pigments in liquid form, soaps, and sometimes solvents) are added to create the desired color at the time of purchase. Pigments add some VOCs to the base paint, so actual VOC emissions will almost always be higher than those quoted on the base paint. The deeper the hue, the more pigment needed, and therefore the more VOCs the colored paint contains. If you must paint in deep, dark shades, consider purchasing paint from a no- or low-VOC line that includes no- or low-VOC pigments.

Toxic substances used in a pigment should be listed on its material safety data sheet (MSDS). Avoid cadmium, chromium, mercury, and other heavy metals. Titanium dioxide, which gives white latex and oil paints their base color and accounts for about 25 percent of these paints by weight, is very energy intensive to produce, so paint containing it creates a certain amount of energy-related pollution before accounting for the binder and carrier.

In the categories below, we differentiate between types of paint based on their binders since the binders tend to dictate a paint’s characteristics and applications. Both the binder and the carrier, however, can contribute to a paint’s overall environmental and health impact.

Because they use water as the carrier rather than petroleum-based solvents, latex paints have lower VOC levels than oil-based paints. While they don’t cover stains as well as their oil-based counterparts, low- and no-VOC latex paints perform well for most household applications, and high-quality latex paint can be as durable as an oil paint. Latex paint actually contains no latex, so it won’t affect people with latex allergies.

Latex paint cleans up easily with water, so you don’t need harsh VOC-emitting solvents to work with it. It can also be “recycled” by combining leftovers; oil paints cannot be recycled in this way.

Using recycled latex paint avoids the manufacturing impact, but recycled paint may not be made of low-VOC paint, so it is best suited to well-ventilated areas like the interior of a garage or shed. Green Seal now has a standard for Recycled-Content Latex Paint (GS-43); paints that are certified under this standard cannot contain more than 250 g/L of VOCs.

We recommend using paints that are free of fungicides and biocides like formaldehyde. Although latex paints are biocide free to begin with, almost all manufacturers add synthetic biocides, or “can preservative,” to extend shelf life. Manufacturers are not required to list biocides on a paint’s MSDS because they are added in such small amounts, but some paints are labeled biocide- or fungicide-free. If you do not see this on the label and want to avoid biocides, call the manufacturer to determine if biocides are included in the formulation.

One hundred percent acrylic paint is more water resistant than vinyl acetate paint and is good for kitchen, bath, and exterior applications. Vinyl acetate paint is adequate for most indoor applications and is less expensive. Look for solids content of over 30 percent to hide stains, cover in fewer coats, and cover more surface area per gallon. This information should appear on the paint’s label or technical data sheet (TDS).

Almost every major brand of latex paint now has a low-VOC or zero-VOC product line; many of these products are also low-odor. See the list of low-VOC and zero-VOC paints that have been certified by Green Seal (which include regular as well as recycled paints). For a longer list of recycled paint manufacturers, see the Product Stewardship Institute’s list. And Consumer Reports’ GreenerChoices.org lists a few low-VOC paints that have high consumer ratings.

Benjamin Moore® Paints

Since 1883 Benjamin Moore has been producing the highest quality paints and finishes in the industry.  2010 marks the introduction to several new lines of quality paints and stains.

Advance™ Waterborne Interior Alkyd Paint - Advance interior paint is formulated with the newest water-dispersible alkyd technology and has minimal yellowing.  Tinted with GENNEX® waterborne colorants, it is low-VOC, low-odor paint.  Finishes: Primer, Flat, Satin, High Gloss

ARBORCOAT® Waterborne Exterior Stain - The next generation of super-premium waterborne exterior stains, low-VOC ARBORCOAT finishes outperform conventional alkyds in penetration, durability, and mildew and fade resistance. Finishes: Clear, Transparent, Semi Transparent, Semi Solid, Solid

Aura® Exterior Pain - Satin Finish - Premium-quality, 100% acrylic Aura exterior latex paint now comes in a satin finish.  The high-build formula has the features of the flat and low luster finishes, as well as optimum durability.  It can be applied as low as 40ºF.

ben® Premium Exterior Latex Paint - The newest exterior paint, eco-friendly ben offers quality and value without compromising on performance.  It is easy to apply, durable, mildew-resistant, and comes in thousands of colors.  Finishes: Solid Flat, Low Lustre, Soft Gloss

Eco Spec® Sliver Paint - Zero-VOC Eco Spec® Silver interior commercial paint combines the superior properties of Eco Spec® with the benefits of an antimicrobial additive with silver to provide a mildew and odor-resistant coating.  Finishes: Flat, Eggshell, Semi Gloss

Fresh Start® Superior Primer - The latest in our premium-quality 100% acrylic Fresh Start interior and exterior primers, high-hiding Fresh Start Superior has even better enamel hold-out, stainblocking, and adhesion properties.  It also has minimal odor, excellent flow and leveling, and dries quickly.

Regal® Select Paint - The newest in this time-honored line of premium paints, Regal Select is formulated with our proprietary GENNEX colorant system and a new, high-performance 100% acrylic resin to offer outstanding durability and mildew and fade resistance. Finishes: Primer, Flat, Matte, Eggshell, Pearl, Semi-Gloss

Natura® Zero-VOC Interior - Natura Interior Waterborne Primer is a low-odor, zero-VOC, 100% acrylic interior latex primer/sealer with splatter-resistant properties.  Ideally suited for residential applications, the Natura Interior is ideally suited for residential applications. Unlike conventional zero-VOC paints, Natura remains zero-VOC even after tinting, which means it remains virtually odorless reguardless of color. Finishes: Eggshell, Flat, Semi Gloss

Moorcraft Super Spec® Latex - An acrylic blended latex eggshell enamel designed for application to a wide variety of interior surfaces such as trim, walls, and ceilings.  This highly durable, low sheen finish enamel has excellent hiding and touch up along with easy applications and soap and water clean up. Finishes: Eggshell, Flat, Semi Gloss, Pearl

Muresco® Ceiling White - A premium quality vinyl-acrylic coating especially formulated for ceilings.  For new or previously painted plaster, wallboard, masonry and wallpapered surfaces, and acoustical ceiling tile and plaster.

Sherwin-Williams® Paints

Sherwin-Williams has been making paints since 1866 and has grown to be the largest producer of paints and coatings in the United States.  They have a few new products that are worth checking out.

Harmony® Interior Acrylic Latex - Durable, zero-VOC, low-odor interior paint is perfect for occupied areas and meets the most stringent environmental coating specifications. Withstands frequent washings and resistant to mildew on the paint film with anit-microbial properties. Formulated without silica or VOCs. Finishes: Primer, Flat, Eggshell, Semi Gloss

ProClassic® Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd - Achieve durable, smooth, high-performance finishes with minimal environmental impact.  Application and finish of an alkyd coating, non-yellowing properties, VOC content of less than 50 grams per liter, and is the preferred coating for wood trim and accents. Finishes: Satin, Semi-Gloss

Property Solution® - With less than 50g/L VOCs, Property Solution Interior Latex Paint meets the most stringent regulations. Low-VOCs doesn't mean you have to sacrifice performance, nor does it come at a steep price.  This economical paint offers numerous timesaving advantages.  Its good coverage and durability minimize the number of coats you need and help keep maintenance expenditures in line.  Applies quickly and easily by brush, roller, or spray - requiring minimal effort for a faster turn.  Delivers good hide with optimal flow and leveling - resulting in a uniform final apperaance.  Extremely easy to maintain - withstanding mild scrubbing, resisting burnishing and providing very good touchup. Finishes: Flat, Eggshell, Semi Gloss

ProMar® 200 - Recommended for interior application on ceilings, walls, and trim of primed plaster, wallboard, wood, masonry, and primed metal.  Better durability, touch-up and mar-resistance. Latex Finishes: Flat, Low Sheen Eggshell Enamel, Eggshell, Semi Gloss, Gloss Oil Base Finishes: Flat, Eggshell, Semi Gloss, Gloss Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd: Eggshell, Semi Gloss, Gloss

Duration Home® Interior Latex - This environmentally preferred product is specially formulated to be low-odor, resist mildew and have lower levels of smog-producing pollutants.  Most stains wipe clean with mild soap and water so no harsh cleaning chemicals are needed for clean-up. The durable formula reduces frequent repaints - providing the ultimate in beauty and washability. Finishes: Matte, Satin, Semi Gloss

E-Barrier™ - Maximize your energy efficiency and lower your utility bills with E-Barrier™ Reflective Coating.  E-Barrier can be applied to attic decking in one coat.  In the summer, E-Barrier reflects radiant heat from the sun to keep your house cooler, and in the winter, keeps your house warmer by preventing radient energy from leaving through your attic.  This provides increased thermal comfort for your family and reduces your cooling and heating costs by as much as 15% as certified by an independent testing laboratory.

SuperPaint® Interior Acrylic Latex - SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex provides superior application and one-coat hide.  Its beautiful finish and superior protection makes it ideal for living rooms, dining rooms, foyers and anywhere that needs to look its best.  And because it goes on easily and covers exceptionally well, SuperPaint Makes major color changes a snap.  Finishes: Flat, Satin, Semi Gloss

Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Repaint a luxury room such as your bedroom, living room, dining room, den or office with a smoothness you can see and feel.  Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex goes on effortlessly, so you get the job done with very little splatter and energy to spare.  The non-sticky application levels smooth with no unsightly marks and leaves your walls with a rich, silky look.  Available in a variety of scrubbabile finishes, Cashmere offers beauty and durability that fits every room in the house.  Finishes: Flat Enamel, Low Lustre, Medium Lustre

Classic 99® Interior Acrylic Latex - Easy to use and affordable, Classic 99 Interior Acrylic Latex Paint provides one-coat hiding over many colors.  It gives a lasting, durable finish and can be used on smooth interior surfaces like primed masonry, plaster, metal, wallboards, and wood. Classic 99 dries quickly and cleans up easily with soap and water.  Finishes: Flat, Satin, Semi Gloss

PPG Pittsburgh® Paints

PPG Pittsburgh® Paints is a nationally recognized brand trusted by painting contractors, building owners, architects, designers, and homeowners for over 100 years.

Manor Hall® Timeless® - Surpassing existing premium and ceramic paints, Manor Hall® Timeless® Interior combines all the features exceptional stain resistance, high washability, burnish resistance, mold and mildew resistance, low-odor and low-VOC, and offers a lifetime limited warranty. Finishes: Matte, Eggshell, Semi Gloss

Accent Color Base - Accent Color Base offers an enriched formulation that provides exceptional hiding and maximum color richness, delivers the deep, dark shades that other paints can't match. It offers a formula for vivid and dark colors, two coat coverage guaranteed, is 100% acrylic, and provides ultra hiding power.

Pure Performance® - Certified as a top quality paint by the Master Painters® Institute (MPI), Pure Performance® is safe for all painting projects and guarantees professional results every time you use it.  It offers zero-VOC and very low-odor, can earn LEED credits, has excellent hiding power, easy to remove stains, and very washable.  It also offers great mold and mildew resistance. Finishes: Flat, Eggshell, Semi Gloss, Primer/Sealer

If you have a question about a home improvement project, or a project you would like to begin, please contact us by telephone at: (773) 930-4533 by email at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or simply fill out an online estimate form for your free in-home estimate.

Our construction, remodeling and renovation services cover the complete Chicagoland area including home improvements and gut / rehab projects in all surrounding suburbs such as Evanston, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Highwood, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, North Chicago, Zion, Winthrop Harbor, Oak Park, River Forest, Elmwood Park, Maywood, Melrose Park, Berkeley, Bellwood, Northlake, Westchester, Elmhurst, Addison, Villa Park, Lombard, Glendale Heights, Carol Stream, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Winfield, West Chicago, Licolnwood, Morton Grove, Golf, Glenview, Skokie, Northfield, Bannockburn, Deerfield, Lincolnshire, Mettawa, Green Oaks, Cicero, Berwyn, Riverside, North Riverside, Westchester, Countryside, Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Oak Brook, Westmont, Darien, Norridge, Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Mt. Prospect, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Inverness, Barrington, Barrington Hills, North Barrington, Tower Lakes, Fox River Grove, Cary, Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Summit, Bridgeview, Justice, Burr Ridge, Willow Springs, Lemont, Park Ridge, Wheeling, River Grove, Rosemont, Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, Mundelein, Round Lake, Round Lake Beach, Round Lake Heights, Round Lake Park, Lake Villa, Burbank, Evergreen Park, Oak Lawn, Chicago Ridge, Blue Island, Robbins, Midlothian, Oak Forest, Tinley Park, Worth, Palos Hills, Palos Heights, Palos Park, Orland Park, Morton Grove, Golf, Glenview, Deerfield, Libertyville, Grayslake, Riverdale, Dixmoor, Northbrook, Calumet Park, Blue Island, Harvey, Markham, Thomton, Lake Villa, Long Lake, Fox Lake, Elmwood Park, River Grove, Franklin Park, Elk Grove Village, Schaumburg, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Hoffman Estates, South Barrington, Barrington Hills, Bensenville, Wood Dale, Itasca, Roselle, Carpentersville, St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia, Montgomery, Oswego, Sauganash, Edgebrook (North), Edgebrook (South), Sauganash Woods / River's Edge, Ravenswood Manor, Ravenswood Gardens, Norwood Park, Edison Park, Belmont Heights, Garfield Ridge, Clearing, Mount Greenwood, Morgan Park, Hegewisch, Hazel Crest, Homewood, Flossmoor, Olympia Fields, Matteson, Richton Park and more. Zip Code : 60605, 60610, 60611, 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60610, 60611, 60654, 60606, 60610, 60611, 60625, 60630, 60640, 60614, 60640, 60660, 60618, 60641, 60618, 60657, 60613, 60614, 60625, 60659, 60613, 60618, 60657, 60625, 60659, 60646, 60630, 60610, 60614, 60625, 60640, 60626, 60618, 60657, 60640, 60660, 60613, 60659, 60645, 60613, 60657, 60639, 60634, 60641, 60707, 60622, 60647, 60630, 60631, 60646, 60647, 60651, 60624, 60647, 60641, 60639, 60641, 60622, 60647, 60614, 60643, 60608, 60615, 60609, 60653, 60620, 60619, 60608, 60636, 60615, 60637, 60653, 60629, 60605, 60607, 60608, 60616, 60649, 60617, 60619, 60637, 60615, 60637, 60609, 60621, 60607, 60606, 60607, 60610, 60612, 60622, 60661, 60608, 60616, 60606, 60622, 60610, 60661, 60607, 60622, 60612, 60607, 60612, 60622, 60647, 60610, 60402, 60130, 60398, 60515, 60201, 60202, 60203, 60035, 60540, 60563, 60564, 60565, 60453, 60454, 60456, 60457, 60458, 60459, 60301, 60302, 60303, 60304, 60305, 60173, 60179, 60192, 60193, 60194, 60195, 60196, 60076, 60077, 60091, 60093