Because of the harmful side effects of solvent-based interior stains and finishes, manufacturers have dramatically reduced the amount of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) their products offgas over the past several years. As a result, there are now quite a few water-based solvents available, qualifying for LEED points in the EQ Credit 4.2: Low-Emitting Materials: Paints & Coatings category.
If you are building a new home and are looking for a green interior floor finish, here are a couple of products available. These have low VOC levels, are made from natural materials, are biodegradable, and are exceptionally durable.
BioShield Paint has floor oils and sealants that are solvent-free and low-VOC, low odor. Here are two of their finishes:
BioShield High Solid Floor Oil: solvent-free finish (photo top)
- Protective wood-enhancing finish, dries to a satin-matte sheen
- Resists staining from water, milk, juice, beer, and wine within a certain time frame
- Made with linseed oil, tung oil, linseed stand oil, silicic acid, beeswax, candelilla wax, lead-free dryer
BioShield Hard Oil #9: low-VOC, low-odor hard oil
- Breathable and elastic coating with superior water-resistant characteristics
- Deeply penetrating finish for high-moisture and high-traffic areas
- Suitable for hardwood and softwood floors
- Made with linseed oil, tung oil, colophonium resin, castor stand oil, isoaliphatics, lead-free dryers, and oximes
Land Ark also has some great products that have gotten good reviews. For instance:
Land Ark Concentrated Finishing Oil
- Suited for floors or timbers, especially on reclaimed or absorbant species
- Contains only 25% solvent
- Completely non-toxic, biodegradable, and sustainable
- No chemical dryers used
- Works well as a top coat in high moisture areas
- Mildewcide and UVA additives are available upon request
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