How to select paints and coatings that will deliver top results

Peter Howard, Sustainability & CSR Lead at Dulux Trade, provides advice on how to select paints and coatings that will deliver top results, whilst improving the project’s sustainability credentials.

The construction industry accounts for a significant portion of worldwide energy usage at approximately 36%, and 40% of CO2 emissions. These emissions result from activities such as manufacturing, shipping of materials, and mining for raw materials. Whilst this might feel far removed from the everyday work of tradespeople, small behaviour changes on site can collectively add up to make a significant difference.

For example, working with clients to select more sustainable paints and coatings can help to reduce emissions across a building’s lifetime. As clients are becoming more conscious of their impact, with research revealing that 71% of professional decorators are now regularly being asked to use sustainable paint options. This is a clear indication that more sustainable paints are not just a trend –they represent a significant shift in client demand.

Low VOC, water-based paint

When selecting paint products, it is important to check the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) content. VOCs are chemical vapours that are released into the air as the paint is applied and drying – and they contribute to the formation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, therefore adding to global warming and ground level pollution.

Reducing VOC emissions can be delivered using an easy switch. Simply opting for water-based products instead of solvent-based paints can make a tangible difference. There are now water-based interior and exterior solutions that offer the same benefits as solvent-based equivalents but with significantly lower levels of solvent content. For interior wood and metal this includes Dulux Trade Quick Dry Gloss, Satinwood and Undercoat while for exteriors Dulux Trade Weathershield Quick Dry Gloss provides the same 8 year all weather protection, as its longstanding solvent-based equivalent.

A new generation of emulsions are also arriving that are 99.9% VOC free – like the recently reformulated Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt. Selecting these water-based products will ensure that the environmental impact is reduced compared to traditional solvent-based finishes. High-quality, water-based paints like this also provide the professional finish and quick drying times needed to complete the work efficiently and to a high standard.

Improving indoor air quality

Exposure to high VOC levels can have a negative effect on the health of the applier and those occupying the premises, if exposed for prolonged periods. The symptoms include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and dizziness, and long term-exposure can lead to more serious health problems such as damage to the liver, kidneys and lungs.

Selecting paints with lower VOC content therefore have a reduced impact on indoor air quality so – their low odour, water-based technology, and easy clean-up make them a better choice for professionals. This is particularly important in enclosed spaces where air circulation may be limited.

Quality assurance

It is important to know that the products being used will deliver the stand-out finishes and sustainability benefits clients are looking for. A good place to start is looking for product accreditations and certifications from the manufacturer and reputable third parties such as BREEAM and LEED. These standards help building professionals around the world deliver their projects more sustainably.

BREEAM stands for “Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology” and is administered by the Building Research Establishment (BRE). It is the oldest method for assessing, rating, and certifying a building’s environmental sustainability and is widely used in the United Kingdom.

LEED stands for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design”. It is a certification program run by the nonprofit U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED covers everything from design to construction, operation, and maintenance of homes, buildings, and even entire neighbourhoods. While BREEAM and LEED accreditations are generally demanded on larger projects, having a paint that is compliant demonstrates to any client that it contains the latest, more sustainable technology.

In addition to sustainability, it is also important to make sure a product lives up to the manufacturer’s performance claims. As well as laboratory testing, tradespeople should look for paints that have been tested by real decorators during the development phases. For example, Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt has been Tested & Approved by professional decorators in three stages to ensure it meets the trade’s evolving needs and delivers the quality results required.

In conclusion, as clients whether commercial or domestic become ever more environmentally conscious, the demand for more sustainable products is set to grow. By choosing the right paint options, you can not only meet this demand but also contribute to creating a better space and more sustainable future.