Building Green with Milk-Based Paint

Ready-made paint remained widely unknown until the late 1800s when painters would prepare each batch manually using three ingredients namely: A binder to hold the liquid together; dry pigment for the color and a liquid carrier.

Milk-based paint quickly shot into popularity in the 1870s because of its budget-friendly ingredient list. It is made using a milk protein called casein, slaked lime, and Earth pigments. In other words, it is the original organic paint that is gaining traction as an eco-friendly alternative to toxic paint.

Environmental Benefits of Milk Paint

Most commercial paints are comprised of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that certain liquid chemical products can emit. While some may be short-lived, others can cause major health concerns.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), most VOCs are found indoors in concentrated amounts. Besides paints, varnishes and wax also contain organic solvents that can release toxic fumes when they are being applied and even while in storage.

Since milk paint is an organic paint, it does not emit harmful toxins and offers a beautiful matte finish that can last for years. This paint relies on milk proteins for stability, which are produced during the curdling process, like byproducts that come from cheese.

There’s More to Milk Paint

Contrary to popular belief, milk paint palettes are not limited to just intense shades. The color range is highly flexible as the paint comes in the form of a dry powder. In other words, painters have the complete creative freedom to control a shade according to your needs.

Depending on the water content, the final effect can either result in a soft wash, a solid color, or a translucent wiping stain. Additionally, different powders can also be mixed to create new shades.

At Arete Renovators, we take our environmental role seriously and use eco-friendly products such as milk-based paint for each paint job. We can create custom shades that can meet your aesthetic needs. It is one of the main reasons why we have become the premier contractor within Chicago in Streeterville, West Loop, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Roscoe Village. Our team is made of a dedicated team of professionals who deliver the best service and products for your dream home. Get in touch with us today.