Comparing the sustainability of different eco-paint brands for exterior walls

Hey everyone! :herb: I’ve been on a mission to repaint the exterior of my house with something that’s not only durable against the elements but also kind to our planet. I’ve dabbled with a few eco-friendly paints in the past, like Earthborn’s Claypaint for interior walls, which was a dream to work with, but I’m curious about exterior options. Recently, I came across Auro’s Natural Paint and Biofa’s Eco Paints, both boasting impressive sustainability credentials.

What’s been your experience with these or other brands for exterior applications? I’m particularly interested in how they hold up against weather changes and their compatibility with different surfaces like brick and wood. Also, how do you weigh the environmental impact of shipping these products if they’re not locally available?

Let’s share our stories and tips! Whether it’s a brand you swear by, a DIY mix you’ve perfected, or lessons learned from a project that didn’t go as planned, I’d love to hear about it. Let’s help each other make more informed, eco-conscious choices for our homes. :earth_africa::green_heart:

Hey @GreenThumbJenny, great topic! I’ve used Auro’s Natural Paint for my exterior walls last year and it’s been holding up pretty well against the rain and sun. What I love about Auro is their commitment to sustainability, not just in their ingredients but also in their packaging and production processes. However, I did notice that it took a bit longer to dry compared to conventional paints, so patience is key. For those considering it, make sure to check the weather forecast before starting your project!

3 Likes

Thanks for sharing, @EcoWarriorSam! The drying time is definitely something to consider, especially with unpredictable weather. Did you apply any special primer or just went straight with the paint? Also, how many coats did it take to get a good coverage?

1 Like

@GreenThumbJenny, I used a primer recommended by Auro to ensure the best adhesion and durability. It took two coats to achieve an even and vibrant finish. The primer also helped in reducing the number of paint coats needed, which is a plus for both the environment and my wallet!

2 Likes

I’ve been experimenting with Biofa’s Eco Paints for a small shed project. The color options are fantastic, and it feels good using something that’s less harmful to the environment. However, I did find that it required more frequent touch-ups in areas exposed to direct sunlight. Has anyone else experienced this? Maybe I missed a step in the preparation process.

1 Like

@NatureLover88, I had a similar experience with Biofa’s Eco Paints on my garden fence. I found that applying a UV-protective topcoat helped significantly in reducing fading and the need for touch-ups. It’s an extra step, but definitely worth it for longevity.

4 Likes

I think it’s important to consider the entire lifecycle of the paint, from production to disposal. Earthborn’s Claypaint has been a favorite of mine for interiors, and I’m curious if anyone has tried their exterior options. Also, how do you all deal with the environmental impact of shipping these eco-friendly paints if they’re not available locally? It feels a bit counterintuitive to have them shipped from far away.

2 Likes

@SustainableSue, that’s a great point about the shipping impact. It’s something I’ve been struggling with too. I try to offset it by purchasing in bulk and choosing the most efficient shipping options available. Also, supporting local eco-friendly paint brands when possible can make a big difference.

3 Likes

I’ve been using Biofa’s Eco Paints for a while now, and I must say, their durability is impressive. Especially on wooden surfaces, it seems to bond really well, offering great protection against moisture. The only downside is the color selection isn’t as vast as some conventional brands, but for me, the environmental benefits outweigh that.

Interesting to hear about Auro’s drying time. I used Earthborn’s Claypaint for my exterior walls last summer, and while it’s marketed more for interiors, it held up surprisingly well. The key was applying it during a dry spell. It’s a bit pricier, but the breathability it offers is unmatched, especially on older brickwork.

3 Likes

I’m all for eco-friendly paints, but has anyone considered the carbon footprint of shipping these products? I found a local brand that uses natural ingredients and minimal packaging. It’s not as well-known, but supporting local businesses reduces transportation emissions, which is a big plus for me.

5 Likes

I tried mixing my own paint once, using natural pigments and a lime base. It was a fun experiment, and the texture was unique, but I wouldn’t recommend it for large projects. It’s hard to get consistent results, and the durability wasn’t great. Still, it’s worth exploring if you’re into DIY and have the time to experiment.

I’ve heard good things about both Auro and Biofa, but I’m curious about their performance in extreme weather conditions. Has anyone used these paints in areas with harsh winters or intense sun? I’m worried about cracking or fading over time.

4 Likes

It’s great to see so many options for eco-friendly paints. I think the key is to balance environmental impact with practicality. Sometimes, the most sustainable option might not be the most durable or easy to apply. It’s all about finding what works best for your specific situation and being willing to make some compromises.

2 Likes

I’ve used Auro’s Natural Paint on my wooden fence last year, and it’s holding up pretty well against the rain and sun. The key was in the prep work, making sure the wood was clean and dry before applying. I haven’t noticed any fading, but I did apply two coats for extra durability. As for shipping, I try to buy in bulk to reduce the environmental impact.

2 Likes

Interesting point about the touch-ups with Biofa’s Eco Paints. I used it on a brick wall, and while the color stayed vibrant, I did notice some peeling in areas that get a lot of moisture. Maybe it’s more about the surface prep or the specific conditions of the area? I’m curious if anyone has tips for improving adhesion on different surfaces.

1 Like

I haven’t tried Biofa yet, but I’m a big fan of Earthborn’s Claypaint for interiors. For exteriors, I went with a local brand that uses recycled materials. It’s not as widely known, but it’s been great for my climate, and supporting local businesses reduces the carbon footprint from shipping. Maybe look into local options if you’re concerned about the environmental impact of transportation.

1 Like

I think the issue with frequent touch-ups might not just be about the paint brand but also the pigment used. Darker colors tend to fade faster in sunlight, regardless of the brand. I used a lighter shade from Biofa on my garden furniture, and it’s been over a year with no significant fading. Maybe consider the color choice along with the brand for better longevity.

3 Likes

I’ve actually used Earthborn’s Claypaint for both interior and exterior, and I must say, it holds up pretty well outside too. The key is in the preparation of the surface. I made sure to clean and prime the walls properly, and it’s been a couple of years with no issues. About the shipping, yeah, it’s a bit of a dilemma. I try to offset it by ordering in bulk when I do, reducing the number of shipments. Maybe we could look into local eco-paint brands that are just as good but don’t have to travel as far?

4 Likes

I haven’t tried Earthborn for exteriors, but I’ve had a good run with Biofa’s Eco Paints on my wooden deck. It’s been through two winters now, and the color hasn’t faded much. The shipping part is tricky, though. I try to justify it by thinking about the long-term benefits of using eco-friendly paints versus the environmental cost of shipping. Plus, supporting these brands encourages more sustainable practices in the industry. Maybe we could also explore more about how these paints are made and what makes them eco-friendly beyond just the label?

5 Likes