is low odor paint the same as low VOC paint?

[caedmyn]

We want to repaint several rooms in our house and would like to use a paint that will be least unhealthy for our family/indoor air quality. I'd heard that low VOC paint was best for this, but several places around here only sell low odor paint. Is it the same thing? Which would have the least negative impact on our indoor air quality?

[Mosaic]

No, they are not the same. In some cases low-odor paint MAY be low-VOC as well, but due to labelling regulations, that is not always the case. No-VOC paint is definitely the way to go for protecting your indoor air quality, but you do need to be careful when selecting your paint type as some no-VOC paints aren't great for kitchens/bathrooms/damp areas, etc., so you will obviously want to select the least toxic paint possible depending on the job.

See GreenHome for more info on different kinds of paint so that you can select the one best for your application.

[Mosaic]

Also, I'm not sure where you live, but you may also want to check into regulations for your state as they vary (sometimes significantly) between states. If you live near a state border, you may be able to cross over and get lower-VOC paints. Google "VOC content limits for architectural coatings" to find out what the limits are... or ask me for help since I just did a project on this a few months ago for work.

[talia rose]

also be aware that many paint companies still use things like formaldehyde and ammonia, just to name a few, in their no voc paints because they are technically not vocs. AFM Safecoat is a reliable company that has been making healthier paint for decades before green was cool. they have this to say:
"Many so-called "Zero VOC" products on the market reduce emissions that cause outdoor air pollution, but still contain a host of unregulated toxic ingredients (such as formaldehyde, ammonia, acetone, exempt solvents and odor masking agents) that cause indoor air pollution.

Safecoat® products go much further to protect your health. In addition to meeting the highest standards of environmental responsibility, we also eliminate toxic ingredients such as solvents, heavy metals, chemical residuals, formaldehyde and other harmful preservatives."

so although the no voc paints now available are a step forward, it is best to do a little research first.

[caedmyn]

Well the nearest place that carries that Safecoat paint is 2 hours away so that's not happening. I'm probably going to have to settle for the low odor paint as I don't think DH is willing to pay an extra $15 a gallon for low/no VOC paint. He wasn't too thrilled that I wanted non-normal paint at all.