Water-based paints have become the new standard in industrial paint applications. This is large because they are non-toxic and environmentally friendly, two characteristics every business needs to consider.

Traditional solvent-based paints contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that contribute to air pollution if not safely and appropriately handled. Water-based paints continue VOCs from using them in cities and homes with stricter building codes and air quality restrictions.

VOC is an acronym for volatile organic compound, a chemical that quickly loses its molecular bonds and evaporates at room temperature. A volatile organic compound (VOC) is any chemical that becomes gas at room temperature and pressure.

The coatings industry, primarily the decorative and refinish segments, has been hit with regulations that drive manufacturers to switch to VOC-based water-based paints. Consequently, all three parts of the coatings industry, solvent-based paints, VOC-based paints and water-based paints, are on the same page when choosing which coating will be applied to a surface.

What is water-based?

Water-based paints, also known as waterborne paints and water-based finishing systems, are a relatively new type of paint that uses water as a liquifying agent instead of chemical solvents. Water-based paints are not necessarily low- VOC (volatile organic compound), but instead zero VOC, or close to it.

They thus do not emit as many toxic fumes into the air and make excellent choices for homeowners who prefer organic solutions over harsh chemicals.

Water-based paints and coatings offer a unique opportunity. They help save time and money by eliminating costly drying times and offering longer application intervals than urethane epoxy systems.

Main Advantages

Working on a painting project with the smell of traditional solvent-based paints all around you is difficult.
The paint fumes can fill a room and even your clothes, making sleeping that night difficult. Water base colors, on the other hand, smell like water. They’re low odour, making them safer and more comfortable to work with.

Safety is always a primary concern when working on various projects. However, safety isn’t as simple as wearing a mask or using safe tools when working on specific tasks, such as painting. Controlling the flammability of your paint is one way to keep your entire job site a lot safer, and being aware of the flammability limits can help you stay safe while working.

As we said earlier,

Water-based paints are more popular because they have a lower VOC (volatile organic compound) content. Because they are less harmful to you and the environment, you’re less likely to exceed local and state regulations, which could result in hefty fines.

They’re not hazardous waste products but still have exceptional performance and durability. In this article, you’ll learn about water-based paints and coatings that are a real money saver.

Disadvantages

Solvent-based paints dry faster and can be used more readily in high humidity conditions, but will ultimately air cure in several weeks. Water-based paints with retarders require longer curing time and are more susceptible to adverse weather conditions during the curing process.
Water-based paints have more durability than solvent-based paints, but they don’t have as high of a sheen level.

The finish is more challenging and easier to clean because it contains no drying oils in oil-based paints. However, this hardness can lead to brittleness with age, mainly when applied over bare wood.

So what does that mean for the consumer? Should we all run out and buy water-based paints?
Not so fast.

Whether you choose the water or solvent version, read the packaging carefully, as you can still run into potentially harmful VOCs. As a rule of thumb, if the paint is labelled low VOC (100g/l max), it will probably not negatively affect your health. You are on safer ground if it is lower than this amount.

Sometimes, finding what works best for you takes time and trial. There are many paint options, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming to try them all. So don’t be afraid to experiment because, in the end, you’ll come out with just what you want.