VOC Compliant vs. Traditional Formulations

What is VOC?

VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compound, defined as any volatile compound containing at least one carbon atom. Many traditional solvent-based architectural coatings contain mineral spirits, a petroleum distillate with carbon atoms. VOC content is measured as the weight of VOC per volume of coating.

Waterlox Formulations: Traditional vs. VOC Compliant

Waterlox Original Tung Oil finishes come in two formulations:

• Traditional (standard VOC levels)

• VOC Compliant (low VOC, meeting stricter environmental regulations since December 2004)

Our R&D team’s goal was to create VOC Compliant products that maintain the same performance and finish quality customers expect from Waterlox. Extensive lab and field testing shows:

• Dry times remain the same despite slightly increased solids and dry film thickness

• Film properties like water and chemical resistance are unchanged

• Flexibility and impact resistance remain consistent

• Film hardness is slightly higher or develops faster, improving mar and scuff resistance (better durability)

• Flow, leveling, touch-up, and absence of lap marks remain consistent

• Satin finish has no settling and delivers a more consistent, lower gloss

In summary, you should experience little to no difference between the two formulations, thanks to the core ingredients like Tung Oil and phenolic resin remaining unchanged.

Important Usage Notes

• Do not mix or combine Traditional and VOC Compliant products in the same project.

• Use the Traditional products throughout your project if you start with them:

  • TB 5284 – Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish

  • TB 6044 – Waterlox Original Satin Finish

• Use the VOC Compliant products consistently throughout your project:

  • TB 6038 – VOC Compliant Sealer/Finish

  • TB 6035 & TB 6045 – VOC Compliant Satin Finish

• Traditional formulations can be applied over VOC Compliant finishes, but not the other way around.

How Does This Apply to You?

VOC regulations apply to anyone who supplies, sells, or manufactures architectural coatings, or applies them, within VOC-restricted areas.

Shipping Note: Before shipping, your zip code will be checked against VOC restrictions. If your location restricts certain formulations, alternative sizes or low VOC options may be offered, or your order may be canceled.

For more information, please visit the EPA VOC guidelines here:
https://www3.epa.gov/region1/airquality/voc.html