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Low VOC paint...does it increase mold risk?

Posted by juniork (My Page) on
Thu, Apr 28, 11 at 1:26

HI All,
I have searched extensively here, and read every post on low VOC paint, but cannot come up with the answer. My GC is getting ready to paint our house (interior) and our plans call for low VOC paint. He called and asked me to think about using regular paint, since he had read that low VOC paint would have a tendency to increase mold, especially in the bathrooms, laundry, etc.

Should I be concerned? What ARE the downsides with low VOC paint? I have googled VOC and mold, but nothing really came up. Please help!


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: Low VOC paint...does it increase mold risk?

He called and asked me to think about using regular paint, since he had read that low VOC paint would have a tendency to increase mold, especially in the bathrooms, laundry, etc.

Call him back and ask him WHERE he "read" this, and what kind of research data proves that low VOC paint contributes to mold growth.

Unless he can do this, it's a fact-free opinion that is worth nothing.


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RE: Low VOC paint...does it increase mold risk?

What LZ said!!

I've been in retail paint-trade for many years now, and this is the 1st time I've EVER heard anything like that!!

>> If he's building a quality, well-ventilated home...IT'S A MOOT POINT ANYWAY!!

Faron


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RE: Low VOC paint...does it increase mold risk?

Most mildewcides and biocides found in paint are not considered VOC's anyway.


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RE: Low VOC paint...does it increase mold risk?

But are the mildewcides and biocides toxic (to humans, obviously they're toxic to mildew) in their own right? (I have no idea, I'm actually curious.)


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RE: Low VOC paint...does it increase mold risk?

They are toxic to all in larger doses, but inherently dangerous to those with compromised immune systems or chemical sensitivities. VOC's, by definition, are regulated because of outdoor air pollution, not human health. That's why paint companies can still use hazardous ingredients but still call their product zero VOC.


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