Allergens Beware: Home Improvement Products

Paint and varnishes
The fumes given off as solvents from paints and varnishes can act as an irritant - especially for those with rhinitis or asthma - causing symptoms that include watery eyes, sneezing, or coughing. In some cases, these irritants may even trigger an asthma attack. As a general rule, the higher a product's VOC content, the stronger its odour.

Solvent (VOC) content
Paints are either oil or water based. Most paints used for walls are water based, while those used for woodwork could be either oil or water based. Oil-based paints are much more likely to cause problems for people with allergies, however, because they contain high concentrations of solvent. The solvent is used to thin the oil, which, in turn, makes the paint easy to apply. Surprisingly, some oil paints may contain more than 50 percent solvent.

As the paint dries, the solvents evaporate into the air, initially at high concentrations, and this may provoke an irritant reaction. Water-based paints and varnishes do not contain such high concentrations of solvents.

Major paint manufacturers advise people with respiratory allergies to use water-based paints and varnishes for walls and woodwork. These are usually low-odour and dry more quickly than oil-based paints.

Water-based products are also promoted for exterior use, but paints and similar products are unlikely to trigger symptoms when used outside.

Alternative paints
With some people with allergies, even water-based paints may provoke symptoms; others may simply want to minimize their overall exposure to VOCs. While they are not as readily available as paints from the major manufacturers, specialist companies generally provide a good range of allergen-friendly products.

Wood preservatives
There are numerous products for protecting wood from insect or fungal attack. Many are solvent-based, however, and potentially dangerous for those with allergies. Handle these chemicals carefully to avoid skin contact and avoid breathing in the fumes. Wood preservatives may cause irritation of the skin and mucous membranes, as well as headaches, dizziness, and nausea.

Whenever possible, buy water-based wood preservatives. These contain much lower levels of VOCs than standard types and smell less strongly, and may also be less irritating for people with respiratory conditions.



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