Building with conscience

VOC Statement

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) include solvents and plasticisers, added to paints, plasters and other decorating products to assist with viscosity, flow and drying times. However, high concentrations of VOCs are a major contributor to interior air pollution and have been linked to various health issues, including headaches, sore eyes, respiratory complaints and the possible impairment of our immune systems.

European Union directive 2004/42/EC states that from January 2010, all adhesives, fillers, paints, primers and decorative materials must contain no more than 30g per litre of VOCs.

Sto endeavours to minimise VOCs in our products as far as possible. Since 2007, all Sto water based primers, paints and plasters meet or exceed the standards of the EU directive, with many products independently tested as VOC Free.

What are VOCs?

VOC stands for "Volatile Organic Compound". The European Union classifies a VOC as any organic compound with an initial boiling point less than or qual to 250°C. VOCs typically emit vapour, which can contribute to air pollution.

VOCs are used in many products to improve drying times or for added protection. The combined VOC content from interior sources is a significant contributor to interior room pollution, which can lead to a number of health problems for building users after prolonged exposure.

EU Directive 2004/42/EC

As part of its effort to tackle global warming and health issues, the European Union directive 2004/42/EC was created to minimise, monitor and control the harmful effects of VOCs. All EU member states have signed up to the regulations, and are committed to reduce VOC content in all products.

Any water based product with VOC content manufactured in Europe cannot exceed more than 30g of VOC content per litre of the total volume.

How does Sto test its products?

All Sto products are independently tested by the TÜV, who have set the highest standards in Europe for VOC content testing.

For broadwall paints, the maximum VOC content to be considered "VOC Free" is less than 100 parts per million, or less than 0.01% VOC content.