Low VOC Products
If you've started seeing "Low VOC products only" appearing on more and more project specifications, you're not alone. Whether you're decorating, fitting flooring, installing joinery or using paints, adhesives and sealants, it's becoming a common requirement across the construction industry.
While it might seem like just another box to tick, there's a good reason behind it. Low VOC products help create healthier indoor environments, improve air quality and support sustainability standards like BREEAM and WELL. Understanding what they are (and why they're specified) can help you avoid costly product substitutions, keep projects on track and make sure you have the right evidence when it's needed.
So, what are VOCs?
VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. They're chemicals that are released into the air from certain products as they dry or cure. You'll find VOCs in things like paints, varnishes, adhesives, sealants and some flooring products. Most of us have noticed them before without realising it. That strong "new paint" or "new flooring" smell is often caused by VOCs being released into the air.
Some VOCs can affect indoor air quality, which is why many projects now specify products with low VOC emissions.
Why do BREEAM and WELL care about them?
Modern buildings aren't just designed to save energy. They're also designed to be healthier places for people to work, learn and live. Both BREEAM and WELL encourage the use of products that release fewer VOCs because better indoor air quality can make buildings more comfortable for the people using them. If a project is aiming for one of these certifications, there's a good chance low VOC products will be included in the specification.
Which products are affected?
Low VOC requirements often apply to:
Paints and coatings
Adhesives
Sealants
Flooring products
Floor adhesives
Timber stains and varnishes
Joinery finishes
Depending on the project, there may be requirements for several of these products, so it's worth checking the specification before ordering materials.
How do you prove a product is compliant?
The easiest way is through the manufacturer's documentation. Many manufacturers provide product data sheets, technical information or certificates showing the VOC content or confirming the product meets the required standard.
If you're not sure, ask your supplier or the manufacturer's technical team before ordering.
Keeping copies of these documents with your project records can save a lot of chasing around later.
A little planning goes a long way
Low VOC products are becoming standard on many commercial projects, especially where BREEAM or WELL is involved. For most subcontractors, it's simply about checking the specification, ordering the right products and keeping the manufacturer's information somewhere safe. That way, if you're asked for evidence, you've already got it.
If you're working on projects with low VOC requirements, BREEAM or WELL, our consultancy can help you understand what's needed, gather the right evidence and avoid compliance issues before they become a problem.