In Pursuit of the Perfect Paint

摘要

The question of health hazards in paint can stall even the most modest home makeover. I cannot count the number of times I have spent an hour or more at the hardware store weighing the merits of competing "green" paints. Fortunately, eco-friendly paints made without volatile organic compounds—VOCs—are increasingly available and affordable. To start, a few VOC basics. Lots of household staples contain VOCs, including cleaners, glues, caulks, strippers and sealants. Strong fumes are a common indicator. The "volatile" in VOC means that these chemicals easily change from liquids to gases. VOCs in paint remain liquid in a sealed can but swiftly vaporize as they go onto a wall and dry. This process, known as "off-gassing," means that breathing air inside a recently painted home can be much unhealthier than outdoor air.