Zero VOC paint, 0 VOC paint and no VOC paint are three spellings of one label. These labels commonly describe paints with very low VOC content. EKO's data sheet specifies less than 5 g/L. Its data sheet also calls Kompozit EKO low odor, and it's $39 a gallon or $165 for 5 gallons. We tint it in Brooklyn and deliver across New York and New Jersey.
What VOC in paint means
VOC stands for volatile organic compounds. They leave the paint film as it dries and carry much of the smell of fresh paint. Every data sheet lists VOC in grams per liter, written g/L. Water-based acrylics run far lower than solvent paints. EKO's data sheet lists no solvents, no ethylene glycol, no lead and no mercury, and it's APEO free.
Zero VOC, 0 VOC and no VOC paint: what the labels mean
- Zero VOC, 0 VOC, no VOC: three spellings of one label. These labels commonly describe paints with very low VOC content. EKO's data sheet specifies less than 5 g/L.
- Low VOC: read the number. On our PRO and NEO cans it means under 50 g/L.
- Tinted paint: colorant added at tinting can change the g/L number. For a strict g/L spec, order EKO in white, or call (718) 594 9337 before you pick a tint.
- Where to look: the VOC line on the data sheet or the can. If your job spec sets a g/L limit, compare the two numbers before you order.
VOC on our shelf
- EKO: zero VOC label, less than 5 g/L on its data sheet. Interior flat, low odor, with an anti-microbial additive against mold and mildew on the paint film. Touch-ups blend in.
- PRIME primer: less than 5 g/L on its data sheet. Interior and exterior.
- NEO: low VOC, under 50 g/L. Interior and exterior, flat or satin.
- PRO: low VOC, under 50 g/L. Paint and primer, interior and exterior, four sheens.
EKO and PRIME each list less than 5 g/L on their data sheets. Tint can change the final number.
When zero VOC paint matters
- Bedrooms, offices and other interior rooms where you want the lowest VOC label on the can.
- Apartment turnovers between tenants. Our turnover guide has the full shopping list.
- Jobs with a spec that sets a g/L limit for interior paint.
Zero VOC describes what's in the can. It does not decide whether a room is safe to stay in while you paint. Ventilate while you paint and while it dries.
Outside, the paint dries in open air, and PRO or NEO at under 50 g/L does the job. For a hallway that gets scrubbed every week, or for trim and doors, go with PRO in Eggshell, Satin or Semi-Gloss. A flat belongs on walls and ceilings that don't get washed.
How to use EKO
- In a home built before 1978, test old paint for lead before you sand or scrape it, and follow EPA lead-safe practices if it tests positive.
- Wear gloves, goggles and a mask as the label directs.
- Clean the wall. Scrape loose paint, sand glossy spots dull.
- Let fresh plaster dry and cure at least 30 days, as the EKO data sheet says.
- Prime with PRIME. The EKO data sheet calls for a primer on bare drywall, plaster, patches and previously painted walls.
- Paint between 50 and 90°F, and keep it from dropping below 50°F for 48 hours after you apply it. Brush, a 3/8 inch roller or airless.
- Dry to the touch in about an hour and ready to recoat in 2 to 4 hours at 77°F; cooler or damp air takes longer. Two coats.
- Keep heavy traffic off for 24 hours. Wait four weeks before you wash the wall.
- Clean tools with soap and water.
How much to buy
A gallon covers 300 to 400 square feet per coat. A 12 by 12 bedroom with 8 foot ceilings has about 380 square feet of wall, so two coats take 2 to 3 gallons. A 5 gallon bucket covers 1,500 to 2,000 square feet per coat, which is two coats on 750 to 1,000 square feet of wall. For a full apartment turnover, the bucket is faster and cheaper. EKO comes in white and light custom colors, tinted in Brooklyn.
Price and delivery
EKO is $39 a gallon and $165 for 5 gallons, $30 under five single gallons. EKO is our lowest priced wall paint. Made in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Custom tinted orders placed before 2pm on a business day are normally mixed that day. From November to March a forecast of 32°F on the delivery route holds the order until we call you; details on our delivery page. Delivery runs on business days, to the curb or the ground floor entrance. Local delivery is $15 per order, free over $150, so a 5 gallon bucket order gets free local delivery in New York and New Jersey.
Order EKO: gallon $39, 5 gallons $165
Questions we get
What does zero VOC paint mean?
These labels commonly describe paints with very low VOC content. EKO's data sheet specifies less than 5 g/L.
Is 0 VOC paint the same as no VOC paint?
Yes. Zero VOC, 0 VOC and no VOC are three spellings of one label, so read the g/L number on the data sheet.
Is zero VOC paint the same as no smell?
No. Zero VOC describes VOC content, not odor. EKO is also described as low odor in its data sheet.
Can I use zero VOC paint in a bathroom?
For a bathroom that steams up, use PRO in Satin. EKO is a flat for dry rooms and ceilings.
Does EKO need a primer?
Yes. The EKO data sheet calls for a primer on previously painted walls as well as on bare drywall, plaster and patches. Use PRIME, which also lists less than 5 g/L on its data sheet.