What makes a coating ‘eco-friendly'?

First of all, look for water based wood stains, low VOC paints and coatings. This means the pigments and binders are not carried by harsh solvents that emit V.O.C.'s (volatile organic compounds). VOC's don't just ‘stink' as you're painting them on. They can be released for years as they cure and dry in your home. VOC's have been found to be unhealthy to people and pets as well as a contributor to smog. That's why in April 2008, the Canadian Government announced regulations to lower VOC content in paints, adhesives and other building materials.

At our Vancouver based company, CBR Products, we were pleased to see these low VOC regulations catch up with our priorities - namely, providing low VOC paints and coatings throughout BC, Canada and beyond. 

What's more, water based low-VOC wood stains and paints don't require toxic solvents for clean-up. Which means you can avoid poisoning our landfills with the oily rags and toxic cans from old fashioned paints. Water clean-up is also a lot easier on brushes and rollers, which can last years longer.

Click here to see some low-VOC water-borne oil coatings from BRODA®.

Click here to check out some latex paint options from AFM

Learn more about paint types, VOC's and more.

Read some tips for preparation and painting.

Other Considerations

The manufacturing process is also worth considering. Oil-based paints and stains use more harsh petrochemicals in their manufacture and further VOC's can be released.

The company behind the product. Are they manufacturing locally? Do they have a culture of fair employment practices and social responsibility?

It all makes a difference.