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How can you choose safe and non-toxic finishes for your project?

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Choosing safe and non-toxic finishes for your project is not only good for your health and the environment, but also for the aesthetics and durability of your design. Finishes are the final layer of protection and expression for your building materials, and they can have a significant impact on the indoor air quality, the energy efficiency, and the maintenance requirements of your project. However, not all finishes are created equal, and some may contain harmful chemicals, volatile organic compounds, or heavy metals that can pose serious risks to your well-being and the planet. In this article, you will learn how to select safe and non-toxic finishes for your project, what to look for in the labels and certifications, and what are some of the best natural and eco-friendly options available.

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Zivai Mamutse, (Pr.Arch)

Professional Architect (Pr.Arch)(SACAP) | Computational Designer | Parametric Modeling Expert

1 Why are finishes important?

Finishes are the materials that cover the surface of your building elements, such as walls, floors, ceilings, furniture, and fixtures. They can be applied for various purposes, such as enhancing the appearance, color, texture, or pattern of your design, protecting the underlying materials from wear and tear, moisture, fire, or insects, or improving the performance, comfort, or functionality of your space. Finishes can be classified into different types, such as paints, stains, sealers, varnishes, lacquers, waxes, oils, plasters, tiles, wallpapers, fabrics, carpets, and more. Depending on the type, quality, and quantity of the finish, it can affect the thermal, acoustic, visual, and tactile properties of your project.

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Zivai Mamutse, (Pr.Arch)

Professional Architect (Pr.Arch)(SACAP) | Computational Designer | Parametric Modeling Expert
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Seek for Natural Ingredients Choose finishes made with natural substances like shellac, beeswax, carnauba wax, walnut oil, or plant oils (such as linseed, tung, or walnut oil). These substances are less likely to contain hazardous compounds or release poisonous fumes. Verify the VOC Content: Chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have the ability to evaporate into the air and cause indoor air pollution. Seek out finishes with low- or zero-VOC labels. Water-Based Finishes: When compared to their solvent-based equivalents, water-based finishes are typically less hazardous and safer. They are simpler to wash with water and emit fewer volatile organic compounds.look for paints, stains, and varnishes that are water-based.

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2 What are the risks of toxic finishes?

Unfortunately, many conventional finishes contain synthetic or petroleum-based ingredients that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Some of these ingredients are known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are gases that evaporate from the finish as it dries or cures. VOCs can cause various symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, irritation, allergies, asthma, or even cancer. Some examples of VOCs are formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, xylene, acetone, and methylene chloride. Other ingredients that can be toxic are heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, or arsenic, which can accumulate in the body and cause neurological, reproductive, or developmental problems. Some examples of finishes that may contain heavy metals are lead-based paints, mercury-containing fluorescent lamps, or cadmium-based pigments.

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Zivai Mamutse, (Pr.Arch)

Professional Architect (Pr.Arch)(SACAP) | Computational Designer | Parametric Modeling Expert
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Examine certificates: Look for certificates like Green Seal or GREENGUARD, which signify that the product has passed testing to make sure it satisfies requirements for indoor and outdoor air quality. Steer Clear of toxic Chemicals: Steer clear of finishes that contain heavy metals like lead and mercury as well as toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene. Both the environment and your health may be harmed by these substances. Investigate Brands: Look into companies that put an emphasis on non-toxic and ecologically friendly items. Examine reviews and see if the business offers comprehensive details on the components that go into their finishes.

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3 How to choose safe and non-toxic finishes?

The first step to choose safe and non-toxic finishes is to read the labels and certifications carefully. Look for products that have low or zero VOC content, that are certified by reputable organizations, such as Green Seal, Greenguard, EcoLogo, or Cradle to Cradle, or that comply with standards, such as LEED, WELL, or Living Building Challenge. Avoid products that have vague or misleading claims, such as "natural", "organic", or "green", without providing any evidence or verification. Also, avoid products that have strong or unpleasant odors, that require special ventilation or protective equipment, or that have long curing times.

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4 What are some natural and eco-friendly finishes?

Choosing safe and non-toxic finishes can be done by opting for natural and eco-friendly alternatives derived from renewable, biodegradable, or recycled sources. For example, plant-based paints, stains, or oils are made from vegetable oils, resins, or waxes and have low or zero VOC content, high durability, and rich colors. Mineral-based paints, plasters, or tiles are made from natural rocks, sands, or clays and have low or zero VOC content, high breathability, and natural texture. Wood-based finishes such as wood veneer, cork, or bamboo are made from sustainably harvested or reclaimed wood and have low or zero VOC content, high insulation, and warm appearance. Fiber-based finishes like wool, cotton, or hemp are made from natural or organic fibers and have low or zero VOC content, high comfort and soft touch.

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Henry Ling

Architecture, Development and Construction
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of the materials listed, resin from pre-consumer goods have been used to replicated wood and other natural-looking finishes. It does provide some durability as it is a viscous material (i.e. "self-healing"), but can be fragile to high temperatures.

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5 How to apply and maintain safe and non-toxic finishes?

The final step to choose safe and non-toxic finishes is to apply and maintain them properly. Follow the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer or the supplier, and use the appropriate tools and techniques for each type of finish. For example, use brushes, rollers, or sprayers for paints, stains, or oils, use trowels, spatulas, or sponges for plasters or tiles, use nails, screws, or adhesives for wood or cork, and use scissors, needles, or staplers for fabrics or carpets. Also, ensure adequate ventilation, lighting, and temperature during and after the application, and wear gloves, masks, or goggles if necessary. To maintain your finishes, clean them regularly with mild or natural cleaners, such as vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice, and avoid harsh or abrasive chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or acetone. Also, repair any damage or wear as soon as possible, and replace or dispose of your finishes responsibly when needed.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Zivai Mamutse, (Pr.Arch)

Professional Architect (Pr.Arch)(SACAP) | Computational Designer | Parametric Modeling Expert
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Test Before Use: Before using the finish on your entire project, try it on a tiny, discrete section if at all possible. By doing this, you can make sure that it works with your wood or other materials and look for any negative reactions. Think About Natural Aging: With time, some finishes may acquire a patina or alter color. The way the finish ages naturally is something to think about because it can change how your product looks. You can minimize potential health risks and environmental damage by selecting safe and non-toxic finishes for your project by adhering to these principles.

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How can you choose safe and non-toxic finishes for your project?

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1 Why are finishes important?

2 What are the risks of toxic finishes?

3 How to choose safe and non-toxic finishes?

4 What are some natural and eco-friendly finishes?

5 How to apply and maintain safe and non-toxic finishes?

6 Here’s what else to consider

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