While the paint on our walls can transform a blah space into one that is nothing short of spectacular it is important to note that your spectacular space could potentially be harmful to your health, and more specifically to the health of your children.
We are all very much aware of the dangers of lead poisoning, but while lead-based paints were banned in 1978, latex and oil based paints are still highly toxic and bad for the environment. When you next repaint your home, opt for a low or no VOC paint. VOCs (Volatile Organic Compound) as described by the EPA "are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids.” These include a variety of chemicals that may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up to ten times higher) than outdoors. VOCs are emitted in paints and lacquers, paint strippers, among many other household items. It is therefore imperative that we eliminate VOCs wherever we can. Many top paint manufacturers, such as Benjamin Moore are committed to bringing superior quality paints that are environmentally friendly. Other companies, such as Sherwin-Williams, Farrow and Ball, Glidden and Valspar have all followed suit.
For more on low and no VOC paints you can visit the following paint dealers:
Benjamin Moore has recently partnered with Ring’s End Lumber and has several locations including their location in Fairfield:
1139 Post Road
Fairfield, CT 06824
203-254-8568.
Farrow and Ball has two locations in Fairfield County.
Greenwich: 32 East Putnam Avenue
203-422-0990
Westport: 396 Post Road East
203-221-3117
Glidden Paints are available at Home Depot.
Sherwin Williams has several locations including one at:
1100 Hope Street
Stamford, CT
203-838-1700.