If you remember the lingering, headache-inducing smell of solvent-based gloss paint from decades past, modern decorating is a completely different experience. Today's water-based, low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) trade and designer paints allow families and businesses to use newly decorated rooms the very same day.
Here is why we prioritise low-VOC formulations across our interior painting and commercial decorating projects.
What Are VOCs in Paint?
Volatile Organic Compounds are carbon-based solvents that evaporate into the air as paint dries and cures. Traditional oil-based undercoats and glosses contained high levels of solvents, releasing strong fumes for days or weeks after application.
Modern low-VOC and trace-VOC water-based paints replace harsh chemical solvents with water and advanced acrylic or alkyd-emulsion binders—reducing airborne emissions to a fraction of legal limits.
1. Healthier Indoor Air Quality for Children, Pets & Allergy Sufferers
When redecorating nurseries, children's bedrooms, living rooms, or healthcare clinics, indoor air quality is paramount. Low-VOC emulsions and water-based trim paints produce minimal odour during application, meaning:
- Bedrooms can be occupied comfortably the same evening once coats are dry.
- Less irritation for household members with asthma, allergies, or sensitivity to chemical odours.
- Offices, retail stores, and clinics can be decorated out of hours and reopen the next morning without paint fumes.
2. Brilliant White Woodwork That Never Yellows
One of the biggest frustrations with traditional oil-based gloss and satinwood is that the natural oils oxidise and turn yellow—especially in areas deprived of natural daylight, such as internal hallways, cupboards, and behind radiators.
3. Faster Drying Times Mean Less Disruption in Your Home
Whereas solvent-based paints often require 16 to 24 hours between coats, advanced water-based primers and topcoats are typically touch-dry within 1–2 hours and ready to recoat in 4–6 hours. Paired with our dust-conscious preparation and complimentary clean of the affected work areas, that allows our decorators to complete multi-coat specifications efficiently and tidily.