Low-VOC Shutters: Adhesives and Finishes with Minimal Off-Gassing

Traditional shutters off-gas potentially harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from adhesives, binders and paints. Low-VOC shutter options minimize exposure to these lung irritants and carcinogens.

The Low-VOC Difference

Low-VOC shutters contain 50-100 times fewer VOCs than conventional shutters. This greatly reduces off-gassing of noxious chemicals into indoor air after installation.

Low-VOC Adhesives

Standard composite wood shutters use adhesives loaded with VOCs. Low-VOC alternatives like soy-based PureBond glue contain no added formaldehyde or toxic solvents.

Low-VOC Sealants

Caulking, weatherstripping and insulation around shutters can be sources of VOCs. Specifying low-VOC silicone, acrylic or hybrid sealants like OSI Quad prevents this.

Low-VOC Stains and Finishes

Wood shutters should be finished using no- or low-VOC stains and paints to maintain healthy indoor air quality. Avoid oil-based finishes high in VOCs.

Low-VOC Paints and Primers

Topcoat wood composite or vinyl shutters using zero- or low-VOC latex exterior paints by brands like Benjamin Moore. Primers like Zinsser Smart Prime also minimize VOCs.

Natural Oils and Waxes

As an alternative to standard stains, natural oils like tung oil or linseed oil minimize VOCs on wood shutters. Beeswax and carnauba wax also offer low-VOC finishes.

Unfinished Wood Shutters

Unfinished poplar, pine or ash wood shutters avoid the glues and binders found in composites. Finish them onsite with low-VOC stains and paints for the purest air quality.

Inorganic Mineral-Based Cores

Luxury composite shutters made with solid inorganic mineral slab cores instead of wood veneers prevent off-gassing of VOCs from inner wood particles.

Extended Off-Gassing Period

Responsible factories cure new shutters for days in climate-controlled rooms to complete VOC off-gassing prior to installation in homes. This avoids new shutter smell.

Edge Banding and Encapsulation

Fully wrapping composite shutter edges with vinyl bands prevents off-gassing from exposed inner wood particles. The banding seals VOCs inside.

Bamboo or PVC Shutters

Bamboo and PVC vinyl shutters made without excessive VOC glues and plasticizers avoid indoor air contamination. Both materials are naturally mold and mildew-resistant as well.

When air purity is an indoor air quality priority, low-VOC shutters keep chemical off-gassing to a minimum. Discuss options with retailers to match shutters to your VOC sensitivities.