If you are truly dedicated to the green movement, you might consider using natural, mineral-based paints for your next house painting project. In addition to being the most environmentally friendly option, these paints have particular characteristics that affect how you use them and when they are practical. Natural paints are those that are made solely from natural substances: pigments are often made from minerals and clay; solvents and fillers are also derived from organic sources, such as plant resins. Painting houses with natural paints, as we will see, is quite easy and offers excellent results.

Plain milk paints are a great choice for interior walls, cabinets, and furniture, although they look different than standard paints. They give a grainy look with very little shine and aren’t particularly washable on their own, so it’s often a good idea to seal with a clear coat. Milk paint actually comes as a powder and you need to mix it with water, usually 1 part water to 1 part powder, or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. They are quite expensive: they are priced at $30 (Can.) or more for enough product to cover 150 square feet of surface area. But you get an eco-friendly product and a unique finish that is sure to impress.

Milk paint and other natural paints can be applied with conventional brushes and rollers, but the steps for the coating system are a bit different. First of all, milk paint requires a porous substrate to adhere well. It is excellent on bare wood, for example. If you want to use milk paint on a previously painted or varnished surface, you will need to use a special milk paint tie coat. As you work on the project, you’ll want to stir the paint every ten minutes or so, because the solids settle to the bottom over time. Milk paint dries quickly, too, so you want to work efficiently to maintain a “wet edge”; in other words, don’t let the paint dry too much from one area to another. You will want to apply 2 coats of paint and then 1 coat of clear sealer for best results. The milk paint leaves a very even and desirable finish, and the clear coat adds to the depth of the color and gives it a soft sheen.

Other natural paints come pre-mixed and are used in the same way, although they don’t require a clear sealer like milk paint. They also tend to dry out pretty quickly. These paints are almost odorless and VOC free. Natural paints are great for bedrooms, ceilings, and even areas exposed to heavy use, but you should be aware that they wear differently than ordinary paints; The natural ingredients create a finish that wears gradually, creating an interesting patina and aged look. They are also resistant to moisture and mold, and allow the material to breathe, so they can work well in a bathroom or kitchen. However, milk paint must be sealed to improve washability. Cleanup is a breeze, requiring only water to clean the tools. In general, natural paints can make house painting a safe task and give your home a very interesting look.