When it comes to painting your home, the color you choose is just one part of the story. What’s in the paint matters just as much—especially if you want a healthier, safer living space. That’s where low-VOC and no-VOC paints come in. These environmentally friendly options offer vibrant, long-lasting results without the harsh chemicals that traditional paints often contain.

In this post, we’ll explore what VOCs are, why they matter, and how switching to low- or no-VOC paints can protect your home, your family, and even the planet.

What Are VOCs—and Why Should You Avoid Them?

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are chemicals that easily become vapors or gases. They’re found in many household products, including conventional paints. When you apply paint that contains VOCs, these chemicals are released into the air—sometimes for days or even weeks after the paint dries.

Short-term exposure to VOCs can cause:

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
• Headaches and dizziness
• Worsened asthma or respiratory symptoms

Long-term exposure may even contribute to more serious health risks. For families with small children, elderly members, or individuals with health conditions, avoiding VOCs is a smart choice.

Benefits of Low-VOC and No-VOC Paints

Low-VOC and no-VOC paints drastically reduce the amount of harmful emissions in your home. Here’s why more Gresham Oregon homeowners are making the switch:

1. Improved Indoor Air Quality
Without the chemical fumes, your air stays fresher—and you won’t need to keep the windows open for days just to get rid of that “new paint” smell.

2. Safer for Everyone
These paints are ideal for nurseries, bedrooms, and homes with pets or allergy-sensitive residents. You can even sleep in a freshly painted room the same night without worry.

3. Eco-Friendly
Low- and no-VOC paints are not just better for your home—they’re better for the environment too. They produce fewer pollutants and help reduce your carbon footprint.

4. High Performance and Color Quality
Today’s low-VOC formulas are just as durable and colorful as traditional paints. Many offer excellent coverage, quick drying times, and resistance to fading and mildew.

A Gresham Family’s Safer Makeover: A Quick Case Study

The Johnson family in Gresham, Oregon, recently decided to repaint their home’s interior. With a new baby on the way, they wanted to avoid any harmful fumes. Their residential painting contractor recommended a no-VOC paint for the nursery and a low-VOC option for the rest of the house.

Not only was the family impressed by the crisp finish and bold colors, but they also appreciated that there were no lingering odors. The project wrapped up in less than a week, and their home looked refreshed—without compromising anyone’s health.

Choosing the Right Paint for Your Home

When shopping for paint, check the label for VOC levels. Here's a quick cheat sheet:

• No-VOC: Typically contains less than 5 grams of VOCs per liter
• Low-VOC: Usually under 50 grams per liter
• Regular paint: Can have up to 250-500 grams per liter

You should also ask your painting professional about primers and finishes, which can also contain VOCs. A trusted painting company like Premier Painting & Contracting LLC will help you select safe, high-quality options that meet your needs.

Final Thoughts

Your home should be a sanctuary—not a source of chemical exposure. By choosing low-VOC or no-VOC paints, you make a powerful decision for your family’s health and your home's long-term comfort. If you're planning a renovation, reach out to a local expert offering painting services with health and safety in mind.