CCD-047: Architectural Surface Coatings

*Please note: there is an interpretation associated with this standard. It is available for viewing at the end of the PDF document

Architectural surface coatings include paints, stains and varnishes, which are used to provide exposed surfaces with decorative and protective finishes. These products may release volatile and toxic chemicals, which in turn, may lead to human health impacts and photochemical smog formation. The EcoLogo^TM Program addresses these challenges by establishing strict requirements for volatile organic compounds (VOCs).The net environmental benefit will be reduced human health impacts, and less potential for smog formation.

To be authorized to carry the EcoLogo, sealants and caulking compounds must:

• Be effective and be safe to use ( have a flash point above 61.0°C, and include detailed instructions for proper use and disposal);
• Not be formulated with:
  • aromatic or halogenated compounds,
  • formaldehyde,
  • ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, and ethylene glycol monobutyl ether,
  • methyl ethyl ketone, and methyl isobutyl ketone,
  • phtalates,
  • isophorone,
  • acrolein or acrylonitrile, and
  • lead, cadmium, antimony, barium, mercury, or their compounds; and
• Not contain more than the following concentration of VOCs, according to type of coating and application:
  • flat paint : 50 g/l (interior), 80 g/l (exterior),
  • non-flat paint: 100 g/l (interior), 125 g/l (exterior),
  • gloss paint: 150 g/l (all),
  • stain: 175 g/l (all); and
  • varnish: 250 g/l (all).