Everywhere you look these days, you can’t help but notice that everyone is now promoting a ‘green’ environment. What a lot of people don’t realize is that the paints and finishes that are used in remodeling their homes can also be green…and we don’t mean just their color.
We know how hazardous so many of the materials we’ve used in the past are to our health. Lead paint is now banned in this country and government has stepped in to make sure that people are aware of the problems that it can create. Although many other products are still allowed and are basically safe once they dry, the toxins in many oil based paints, and especially in lacquer, emit fumes when wet that can cause headaches, nausea and, in large quantities, can affect the kidneys. Do you really want your employees exposed to them?
On the market today are some wonderful products that are environmentally safe, water based and VOC (volatile organic compounds) compliant for the discriminating remodeler. These products emit less odor, are mildew resistant and much friendlier to use and live with.
Euro Builders & Remodelers, based in Richardson, Texas, refuses to use anything but these products on their projects. As a green remodeler, they use existing cabinets in a kitchen or bathroom and refinish them to look like fine pieces of furniture. Additional towers are often built and connected with canopies but underneath it all are the existing builder-grade cabinets. Products from Faux Effects International along with experienced techniques completely transform them to the delight of their clients.
These paints, topcoats and glazes are all water based and do not require the use of harsh chemical solvents that leak hazardous toxins into the environment and are harmful to those who use them. Water is all that is needed for cleanup and nothing harmful is sent down the drain into the sewer system.
Sherwin Williams and other major paint manufacturers are now using sustainable raw materials, like soy and sunflower oil in their paints and have reduced the amount of solvents in their products to reduce the vapors that are emitted.
Check the label and use products that are VOC compliant and follow the manufacturer’s instruction for use. Other steps you can take include adequate ventilation. Use these products outdoors, if possible. If not, make sure you have windows and doors open and a fan to blow the fumes outside. Properly seal and dispose of used paint cans. Do not toss into the trash but contact your local municipality to see if they have a special collection point for hazardous materials. If the product is going to be stored, seal tightly and store in a well ventilated area that is safely out of the reach of children who are more susceptible to these hazards.
As a green remodeler, be aware that some products are more environmentally friendly than others. It is your responsibility to choose those for your projects to help keep our country green.
Euro Builders & Remodelers, Inc. 972/470-0303 melinda@eurobuilders.biz
