When you want to bring new life into your home what do you think about? Well, I think about painting! Painting is a great way to bring new life to old cabinets, furniture, and hardware. Plus, it is a green way to make your home feel like new. No tearing out or replacing, just a little elbow grease to make everything bright again. Here are some tips to make your painting greener:
- Buy Smart – When shopping for paint, try to find paints labeled “MPI,” “Green Guard,” “LEED Certified,” “CHPS,” or “Green Seal.” These designations show that the paint meets certain environmentally-friendly standards. You should also be using low VOC paints that do not have the harsh toxic fumes of standard paints. Most large paint retailers have a wide selection of low or no VOC environmentally-friendly paints.
- Store Safely – After you complete your painting you may have paint left over. If you choose to store that paint, do so safely. Store it in a cool, dry area and make sure it is tightly sealed. Prevent the paint from being spilled or accidently thrown away. You can add in things to make it last longer but most paints can last two years or more if not allowed to freeze. If you use old paint, make sure you stir it well and it is still smooth and odor-free before painting. If it stinks or is chunky, it needs to be disposed of.
- Give it Away – If you do not want to keep leftover paint for use in other projects or touch-ups, then there are many programs that love to get leftover paint. Check with your local charities, like Habitat for Humanity, and churches to see if they accept paint donations. Some small businesses and neighbors might also be open to using your leftover paint.
- Dispose Correctly – If you do not have enough left to save or give away, then you need to properly dispose of it. For latex paint, if less than one-fourth of the paint remains, let it sit outside where it will not be disturbed with the lid off to air dry. For larger quantities, try mixing it with shredded newspaper or cat litter. Most home improvement stores sell commercial paint hardener that you can pour into leftover paint to speed solidification. Remember, oil-based paints are considered hazardous waste and must be taken to your local household hazardous waste facility.
As you can see, there are many ways to paint greener. Painting instead of buying something new is already helping to conserve resources. The next time you think about replacing a piece of furniture or cabinetry, think about painting it instead. You may find that you love it even more than something new!
This is a guest post by Liz Nelson from WhiteFence.com. She is a freelance writer and blogger from Houston. Questions and comments can be sent to: liznelson17@gmail.com.