Several paint companies have caught the “going green” bug, and started making paint that meets certain standards for environmentally conscious products.

The paint is comparable with other paint in cost, and may have fewer effects on the painter using it. According to the Master Painters Institute Green Performance Standard List, “green” approved products contain zero percent of harmful elements like lead, asbestos, mercury, formaldehyde, or confirmed human carcinogens. There is also less of an odor to “green” paint.

CDH Painting Inc. president Duane Hagans said that although “green” paint may have some benefits, but maybe a few drawbacks too.

“Exterior paints that are ‘green’ are a little bit more of a challenge.” Hagans said. “It’s a matter of durability.”

The durability of “green” paint has yet to be tested for the long term. In this climate, painting “green” indoors may be a safer bet.

“Green isn’t necessarily cost effective,” Hagans said. “It might be beneficial, but what does it do down the road?”

With a little research on the web or at the local hardware or paint store, homeowners can determine if “going green” is best for the project.