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Paints, Finishes and Adhesives


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Paints, Finishes and Adhesives Contents:

CSI NUMBERS
DEFINITION
CONSIDERATIONS
COMMERCIAL STATUS
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
GUIDELINES

RESOURCES


CSI Numbers


DEFINITIONS:

This section addresses finishes such as paint, stain, and varnishes and adhesives that can be applied on-site.


CONSIDERATIONS:

Most finishes and adhesives contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which outgas and adversely affect indoor air quality. Lower VOC and non-VOC products are now readily available from many companies, however.

The Environmental Choice(TM) Program in Canada has established minimal VOC standards for finishes to receive their Eco Logo(TM). The Environmental Choice(TM) program recognizes negative impacts on the environment and people from VOCs. California and a number of other states have now adopted and sometimes improved upon those Canadian standards. The Green Builder Program strives to follow the Canadian standards.

Low biocide paints avoid the fungicides and mildewcides typically added to latex paint to extend shelf life. These additives are considered harmful to indoor air quality and are specifically avoided by environmentally sensitive persons.

Natural plant/mineral-based finishes and adhesives are available from three German companies. They cost 2 to 2 1/2 times more than standard products. Low biocide and VOC paints also cost more. Low biocide paints can spoil if not used quickly.

Commercial
Status
Implementation
Issues
technology suppliers cost financing public regulatory
Water-Based Adhesives
Minimal VOCs
Low-Biocide
Natural Paints

Legend
green Satisfactory
yellow Satisfactory in most conditions
red Satisfactory in Limited Conditions
black Unsatisfactory or Difficult

COMMERCIAL STATUS

TECHNOLOGY:

The finishes and adhesives discussed in this section perform satisfactorily.

SUPPLIERS:

Low VOC paints are becoming available from major paint manufacturers and can be obtained locally. Water based adhesives are also locally available. Low biocide and natural paints must be ordered. There are some local sources for natural paints.

COST:

Water-based and solvent-free adhesives and low VOC paints are competitively priced. Low biocide paints and natural finishes are significantly more expensive.


IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES

FINANCING:

Available.

PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE:

Materials that are considered more healthful have a broad-based appeal. Some people may feel that mildew problems could occur in paints that do not have a mildewcide such as a low-biocide paint.

REGULATORY:

None.

GUIDELINES

1.0 Low VOC paints characteristics

2.0 Low biocide finishes

3.0 Natural Finishes

4.0 Adhesives


RESOURCES


PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE




COMPONENTS / MATERIALS / SYSTEMS


Paints/Sealers:

Adhesives:

Strippers/Solvents: Other Products

GENERAL ASSISTANCE



PUBLICATIONS


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This document was adapted to HTML by Bill Christensen, sysop and environmental editor of Texas InfiNet, an online community for progressive information.

Sustainable Building Sourcebook web version copyright Sustainable Sources 1994-1999.