If you've been browsing the paint aisle lately, you've probably noticed labels boasting 'low-VOC' or 'zero-VOC'. But what does that actually mean, and is it worth paying extra for? Here's a straightforward guide to help you make an informed choice for your home and family.
What Are VOCs?
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and enter the air as gases. In paint, VOCs are found in solvents and certain pigments — they're largely responsible for that strong 'fresh paint' smell. Common VOCs in paint include compounds such as benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde.
According to BRANZ, indoor air quality is a significant concern in NZ homes, particularly in newer, well-sealed buildings where ventilation may be limited. VOCs can contribute to eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and with prolonged exposure, more serious health effects.
What Does Low-VOC Actually Mean?
In New Zealand, there's no single mandatory legal standard defining exactly what 'low-VOC' must mean on a paint tin, so it pays to read the label carefully. As a general guide:
- Standard paint can contain VOC levels well above 200 grams per litre (g/L)
- Low-VOC paint is typically formulated to contain less than around 50 g/L
- Zero-VOC paint aims for less than around 5 g/L — though trace amounts may still be present, especially once tints are added
Note that tinting a low-VOC base with standard colourants can raise the final VOC level, so ask your paint supplier about low-VOC tints as well.
Low-VOC vs Standard Paint: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Standard Paint | Low-VOC Paint |
|---|---|---|
| VOC level | Often 150–400+ g/L | Typically under 50 g/L |
| Smell during application | Strong | Mild to minimal |
| Dry/recoat time | Varies | Similar or slightly longer |
| Coverage & durability | Proven | Comparable in quality brands |
| Cost | Lower to mid-range | Slightly higher on average |
| Indoor air quality impact | Higher | Significantly lower |
| Eco-friendliness | Lower | Better |
Which NZ Brands Offer Low-VOC Options?
Several well-known NZ paint brands have strong low-VOC ranges:
- Resene is a New Zealand-owned brand with a long-standing commitment to low-VOC formulations. Their Environmental Choice-certified paints are a popular choice for health-conscious homeowners.
- Dulux offers low-VOC interior ranges suitable for bedrooms, nurseries, and living areas.
- Wattyl also carries low-VOC interior options across their product lines.
You'll find these brands stocked at Bunnings, Mitre 10, and PlaceMakers, as well as dedicated paint stores.
Is Low-VOC Paint Worth It?
For most NZ homeowners, the answer is yes — particularly for interior painting. Here's why:
Health and comfort
Low-VOC paints are especially worthwhile in bedrooms, nurseries, children's rooms, and any space with limited ventilation. Sensitive individuals — including those with asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities — often notice a real difference. New Zealand's Healthy Homes standards highlight the importance of indoor air quality, and choosing low-VOC products is one practical way to support a healthier living environment.
Practical convenience
Because the smell is much milder, you can often stay in or return to a room sooner after painting. This is a genuine quality-of-life benefit, especially in smaller homes or during cooler months when opening windows isn't ideal.
Environmental responsibility
VOCs contribute to outdoor air pollution and smog when they off-gas. Choosing low-VOC products reduces your household's environmental footprint — something many Kiwis care about.
Cost consideration
Low-VOC paints can cost a little more per litre than standard options, though the gap has narrowed considerably as demand has grown. For most interior jobs, the price difference across a room or two is modest when weighed against the health and comfort benefits.
Exterior painting
For exterior surfaces, low-VOC options are available but the performance trade-offs (durability, weather resistance) deserve more consideration. Talk to your paint supplier or a professional painter about the best product for your specific exterior substrate and climate — NZ's UV levels and coastal conditions can be demanding.
Tips for Getting the Best Results with Low-VOC Paint
- Ventilate anyway — even low-VOC paints benefit from good airflow during and after application
- Ask about low-VOC tints when having colours mixed, to keep the final VOC level low
- Check the data sheet — reputable brands publish VOC content on their technical data sheets
- Store and dispose of paint responsibly — check your local council's guidelines for paint disposal
When to Call a Professional
Painting is generally a DIY-friendly task, but there are times when hiring a qualified painter makes sense:
- Large or complex jobs (multi-storey, textured ceilings, heritage homes)
- Surface preparation involving old paint that may contain lead (common in homes built before the 1980s) — this is a health and safety risk; consult WorkSafe NZ guidelines before disturbing old paint
- Specialist coatings or warranty requirements
A professional painter will also have expert knowledge of which low-VOC products perform best for your specific situation. You can find qualified local painters on tradedirectory.co.nz.