August/September 2008
Materials & Resources
C O N T E N T S
ED Corner: Chapter Progress and Five Year Anniversary Celebration
LEED 2009: Regional Credits
The Business of Green: Take Control of Your Lighting Costs
Materials & Resources: What You Need to Know About Environmentally Friendly Paint
Water Efficiency :Reduce Potable Water Through Grey Water Systems
Walking the Talk: FSC Certification for Chapter LEED Study Guide
Regional Update: Metro Denver Branch Leadership
VISION
Promote responsibility for Colorado's environmental legacy.
MISSION
Advance and promote sustainable planning, design, construction and operation of the built environment through education, improving industry guidelines, policy advocacy, and information and resource sharing.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tom Hootman, President
RNL Design
Dana Kose, Vice Chair
M.A. Mortenson
Megan Christensen, Secretary
Bovis Lend Lease
Jim Bradburn, Treasurer
RMH Group
Mike Lowell, Advocacy Chair
US GSA
Bobby Molinari, Membership Chair Hyatt Select
Josh Radoff, Director At Large
YRG Consultants
Sue McFaddin, Director At Large Seven Generations
Ted Caulkins , Education Chair
Silvertip Integrated Engineering
Daniele Loffreda, Communications Chair
Plateau Enviro Associates
Conor Merrigan, EGB Chair
C2 Sustainable Development Consultants
Deb Kleinman
Executive Director
Colorado Building Green is the official newsletter of the U.S. Green Building Council – Colorado Chapter, and is published bi-monthly. If you are interested in submiting a story, ideas or other information for publication, please contact the editor at dgloffreda@msn.com
Clearing The Air
What you need to know about environmentally friendly paint
By Laurie Hessemer, Owner, NEW ERA PAINT
The FAQs on VOC's
What’s the difference between low and zero VOC paints?
Low VOC paints contain less than 50 g/L of VOCs. Zero VOC paints contain 5 g/L or less of VOCs.
Do low and zero VOC paints perform as well as other higher VOC paints?
Low and zero VOC water-based acrylics perform as well as other higher VOC acrylic paints. As with any product category, there will be variation from one brand to another.
Are all low and zero VOC paints non-toxic?
No, some zero VOC paints still contain acetone, ammonia, formaldehyde, crystalline silica and other toxic ingredients, that are known to cause cancer, impair immune systems and decrease fertility.
Can these paints seal in off gassing?
Most of these paints are formulated to minimize off gassing, but still breathe in order to allow for a healthy exchange with outdoor air. Sealing the wall surface would trap harmful chemicals that off gas from other products and finishes.
How long do paints off gas?
This is widely debated, and there is no consensus on the subject. At one end of the spectrum, there are those that would say the off gassing is over when the odor has dissipated; and at the opposite extreme, that it can go on for upwards of 10 years. How long paints emit is really a function of many variables, such as: the type of paint (oil based vs. water? flat vs. other finishes? VOC content?), the surface being painted (metal, wood, drywall), the climate (dry vs. humid) and ventilation. The EPA did a study in 2002, which is a good touchstone. They found that conventional latex applied to metal off gassed 90% of its VOCs within two weeks, but the same paint applied to drywall off gassed less than 20% in two weeks, and might continue to off gas for up to 42 months. Again, it’s important to take into account the off gassing of all the products and finishes in an enclosed area, not just one in isolation from others present in a space.
Do these paints cost more?
No, in most instances these paints cost the same as any other premium paint, with the added advantage of being environmentally friendly. Some manufacturers have passed the cost of R&D on to consumers in the form of higher prices, anticipating that they will lower their prices as sales increase.
Do these paints last as long?
Yes, the better brands warrant their paints. And, the shelf life is usually two or more years.
What colors do these paints come in?
There are no limits to the colors these paints come in; everything from the subtlest pastels to the boldest accent colors are available, all tinted with zero VOC pigments.
Where can I get more information?
Feel free to call us at NEW ERA PAINT, 303.237.6337 or visit our website www.newerapaint.com