VOCs are “volatile organic compounds,” but what does that mean in roofing?

VOCs are human-made chemicals commonly found in coatings, paints, solvents, and other common roofing materials.

They are high vapor pressure and low water solubility industrial solvents usually produced at roof manufacturing plants.

The typical VOCs include fuel oxygenates, like ether or chloroform, but they can also include petroleum fuels, hydraulic fluids, and dry cleaning agents.

In other words, they play a detrimental role in the health of the environment and human health.

VOCs in Roofing

VOCs in roofing can be found in the solids and liquids of the restoration systems as emitted gases.

As we mentioned, all these chemicals have short and long-term adverse effects on human health.

A wide array of roofing products and systems emit VOCs: you can primarily find them on solvents, adhesives, bitumens, or asphalt systems that, when exposed to sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx) and VOCs combine to produce ozone, which is harmful to the environment.

In addition, extra care is needed when applying systems with a high content of VOCs, such as safety gear, respirators, and proper ventilation sources.

VOCs Regulations

The Environmental Protection Agency suggests the roofing industry start using roofing products and systems with zero or low VOC levels.

At IPP, we do not doubt that they will be phased out soon.

That’s why we can proudly say that at Instacoat Premium Products, you can ask for our Neoprene Liquid Rubber restoration system that emits zero VOCs or our Silicone Roof restoration system that is high solids and low VOCs.

Both roof restoration systems meet the EPA regulations and produce little harm to the environment and human health.

VOCs

They play a detrimental role in the health of the environment and human health.

Please find out the most important VOC regulations in the US below:

  • California Air Resources Board (CARB)

CARB is the regulatory agency that oversees California’s air quality and environment.

They control the regulatory guidelines of the entire state.

  • Ozone Transport Commission (OTC)

They are composed of the USA’s northeast states, and the OTC prints the rules and regulations of every region’s quality air.

  • Lake Michigan Air Directors Consortium (LADCO)

LADCO encompasses the Great Lakes-area states. 

LADCO regulations are usually based on the same rules as the OTC model.

  • South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD)

This is one of the air districts in California, the Los Angeles-area SCAQMD is the most demanding agency in the USA, and they are in charge of monitoring and implementing new VOC regulations.

Comply with VOC Regulations with Instacoat Premium Products

Contact Instacoat Premium Products today to learn more about the latest VOC regulations regarding roofing applications and systems.

To find out if your roof is within the new regulations, schedule a meeting with us now!