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  Waterlox VOC Compliant Sealer Finish
Waterlox VOC Compliant Satin Finish
VOC Regulation (Volatile Organic Compounds)


VOC: Any volatile compound containing at least an atom of carbon.

Solvent-based architectural coatings contain Mineral Spirits, a petroleum distillate, containing carbon.

California requires a reduction in emissions of five percent or more per year until various clean-air standards are met. California and numerous other states have also set statewide emission limitations for odor or unhealthful emissions, as well as visible emissions, open burning, sandblasting, gasoline vapors, and incineration of toxics. Ozone is formed by photochemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds.

VOCs are formed from the incomplete combustion of fuels and from evaporation of organic solvents. Reducing ozone levels involves controlling both NOx and VOC emissions. Typical VOC controls include reducing the VOC content of paints and solvents, and controlling fumes from gasoline pumping, auto body painting, furniture finishing, and other operations that involve organic chemicals and solvents.

These regulations are primarily meant to ensure that the surrounding (or ambient) air will meet federal and state air quality standards. These regulations limit the amount of VOC allowable in a variety of coatings and other liquid products. These regulations limit the use of various coatings and other liquids that exceed allowable VOC content.

Many manufacturers have reformulated their products to comply with the lower VOC requirements of various states. Most times, the lower VOC version works just as well as the original formulation, but with a slightly higher cost due to the reformulated ingredients.

Numerous states have modeled their clean air regulations around the California model. These states include

Arizona
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
Pennsylvania
Virginia

Other states are considering implementing similar restrictions as well.

Because there are numerous exemptions, ongoing changes, and various interpretations of many of these rules, it is wise to consult with the local regulating agency for specific rules, allowable VOC emissions, and methods of compliance.

Go to Waterlox for current VOC Restrictions regarding use of various products.

Waterlox VOC Compliant Sealer Finish
Waterlox VOC Compliant Satin Finish

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