The start of 2010 brought with it the implementation of the latest set of EU regulations regarding the amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in paints. But there’s no need to fret because leading trade paint brand Leyland has this new legislation completely under control. Here, Leyland brand manager Nicki Hickman puts the minds of professional builders across the country at ease by addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about the new generation of VOC 2010 compliant products.

What are VOCs?
Standing for Volatile Organic Compounds, VOC emissions contribute to air pollution and are linked to global warming. The first wave of legislation was introduced in 2007 when all products manufactured from 1st January of that year had to be compliant in formulation and labelling. There was little change to the main product types in 2007, but 2010 has witnessed considerable changes to traditional solvent-borne coatings, such as gloss and satin trim paints and varnishes.

So, what exactly is the new VOC 2010 legislation?
All industries have been tasked with reducing the quantity of man-made VOCs that are emitted into the atmosphere. While the paint industry contributes less than 1% of all UK man-made VOC emissions, it is still the responsibility of manufacturers to produce paints and other coatings that meet the strict VOC limits.

Which products will be affected?
As all current water-based products are already fully compliant, the most significant changes will be made to solvent-based trim and woodcare products. As of 1st January 2010 manufacturers have been unable to produce these non-compliant products. To ensure the transition is as seamless as possible, these products have been reformulated and extensively tested by professional painters and decorators. The feedback received was extremely positive and resulted in new formulations that match expected performance characteristics.

Will I notice a difference in the products I use?
As with all new technology formulations, certain characteristics will differ such as appearance, feel and drying times. For example; new products may initially appear to have a higher sheen level than their previous counterparts, and in many cases an increase in volume solid content means a longer touch drying time than before. Likewise the higher solid content will impact on the in can appearance of the new products and will cause them to yellow quicker in certain conditions than traditional solvent based paints. These changes are a result of the new technologies and apply to all manufacturers. Although the latest VOC legislation has brought these significant changes to traditional products, you can expect the same level of performance that you have come to expect from Leyland Trade.

Will solvent-based products disappear as a consequence of the new legislation?
In a word, no! One of the biggest misconceptions about the new legislation is that it will signal the demise of all solvent-based products. Although it is true that such paints have undergone the most modifications, we have worked hard to develop new compliant solvent-based technologies. As you’ll see from the shelves in your local stockist, all solvent-based trim products are still available.

What about the paint I’ve already purchased by not yet used?
The legislation allows professional tradespeople to continue using the product they have already purchased for as long as required, while non-compliant products can continue to be sold until the end of 2010. As always though we would recommend that you do not mix batches of paint on the same job, this includes compliant and non-compliant formulations.

Are there any products exempt from the legislation?
With the new legislation causing such a stir in the industry you would be forgiven for thinking changes will be introduced across the board, but there are still a number of products that will be completely unaffected by it. Aerosols, liquid sanders, sugar soap, brush cleaners, fillers, sealants, caulks and colourants used for tinting are just a selection of the products that will be excluded from the legislation.

How will I know which products are compliant?
All VOC 210 compliant products are now available and are clearly labelled with a distinctive VOC 2010 compliant logo – you can’t miss it!

Leyland launches new substrate guide
Leading trade paint brand Leyland has made life that little bit easier for professional painters and decorators with the launch of its new handy pocket-sized substrate guide.

Designed to provide a quick and easy reference point for professional tradespeople on the job, the guide provides information on the suitability of each product in the range for a huge array of substrates. There is also plenty of information on each product to make sure you are equipped to make an informed decision, as well as information on which products can be customised to meet the colour requirements of clients using the innovative in-store tinting machines found in all good Leyland stockists.

The guide also demonstrates the range of services offered by the paint manufacturer, including advice from its experienced team of Colour Consultants, training modules for trade users and guidance from Technical Specification Consultants if you are starting a new build or renovation project.