A Case for Clay

Indoor air quality is often overlooked when people think of green building.  Since most people spend 90% of there day indoors, it is important to consider.  VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemicals with low boiling points that allow them to be released readily into the air at room temperature.  VOCs can cause many health problems including headaches, asthma, allergies, and even cancer with prolonged exposure.  Young children and infants are at greater risk than those with fully developed immune systems.  VOCs are in many interior products and finishes including paints, carpet, vinyls, and adhesives.  Think of the smell of wet paint or a new car.

Many paint companies have been working to reduce or omit the use of VOCs in their products.  Clay based products can be an alternative to conventional paints.  They are healthy and beautiful while bringing another natural product into your home giving you greater connection to the natural world.  Clay based finishes generally come in two different forms.  Bioshield offers clay paints in many beautiful colors.  These can be painted directly onto a matte surface such as existing paint or drywall.  American Clay is a natural plaster product.  (Sorry iPad users, the website uses Flash!)  It comes in four finishes from matte to a beautifully smooth finish called Porcelina.  They work with local companies and applicators who can mix a multitude of custom colors.

Paint is an easy way to change interiors and is often what homeowners change first.   Look for healthy alternatives for you and your family.  Clay being only one of the options currently on the market.