Low VOC Paint Specs

Low-VOC paint is an easy add to any project, with no change to project cost. Make sure you include general directions in Division 1 for all submittals, including what you want on the submittal cover sheet. The architect should reject immediately (as should the GC if getting such submittals from his/her sub-contractors) all submittals that don't have the VOC content indicated in the submittal cover sheet and then highlighted in the manufacturers data. To your normal paint specs, add:

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 SUBMITTALS

A. LEED Submittals:

Product Data for credit LEED NC v2.2 EQc4.2: For each paint and coating used including a printed statement of VOC content and chemical components.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

2.2 MISCELLANEOUS MATERIALS

A. Paints, Coatings, and Primers for Interior Walls and Ceilings for (the appropriate category)

Provide architectural paints, coatings and primers applied to interior walls and ceilings that meet these performance requirements (your non-LEED performance criteria) and meet the following criteria:

1. VOC Content: VOC content cannot exceed the VOC limits established in Green Seal Standard GS-11, Paints, First Edition, May 20, 1993. (Flats: 50 g/L - Non-Flats: 150 g/L) [LOWER THESE NUMBERS IF YOU WANT - ESPECIALLY FOR THE FLAT]

B. Anti-Corrosive and Anti-Rust Paints Applied to Interior Ferrous Metal Substrates:

Provide anti-corrosive and anti-rust paints applied to interior ferrous metal substrates that meet these performance requirements (your non-LEED performance criteria) and meet the following criteria:

1. VOC Content: VOC content can not exceed the VOC limit established in Green Seal Standard GC-03, Anti-Corrosive Paints, Second Edition, January 7, 1997. (250 g/L)

C. Clear Wood Finishes, Floor Coatings, Stains, and Shellacs Applied to Interior Elements:

Provide clear wood finishes, floor coatings, stains, and shellacs applied to interior elements that meet these performance requirements (your non-LEED performance criteria) and meet the following criteria:

1. VOC Content: VOC content can not exceed the VOC limits established in South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113, Architectural Coatings, rules in effect on January 1, 2004. (Clear wood finishes: varnish 350 g/L, lacquer 550 g/L - Floor coatings: 100 g/L - Shellacs: Clear 730 g/L, pigmented 550 g/L - Stains: 250 g/L)