Eco-paint warranty woes: Troubleshooting common issues with natural finishes

Hey fellow eco-warriors! :herb: I recently took the plunge and repainted my living room with EarthHue Natural Paint, a brand I was super excited about for its low VOC content and sustainable sourcing. The color turned out beautifully, but I’ve hit a snag – after just a few months, I’m noticing some areas where the paint seems to be peeling, especially near the windows where sunlight hits directly.

I’ve used BioShield Clay Paint in the past with great success on plaster walls, but this is my first time trying a natural finish on drywall. I prepped the surface meticulously, so I’m a bit puzzled. Has anyone else experienced durability issues with natural paints on certain surfaces? Specifically, I’m curious about:

  • Surface compatibility: Are there particular wall types or conditions where natural paints might struggle?
  • Environmental considerations: Could humidity or temperature fluctuations be affecting the paint’s adherence?
  • Brand experiences: Has anyone else used EarthHue or found a natural paint brand that holds up better in sunny areas?

I’m all for sticking with eco-friendly options, but I also need my walls to look good for more than a season! Would love to hear your thoughts, tips, or any similar experiences you’ve had. Let’s troubleshoot this together and keep our homes beautiful and green! :seedling:

Hey @GreenThumbJenny, I’ve had a similar issue with EarthHue Natural Paint in my sunroom. The areas that get direct sunlight started peeling after a few months. I reached out to their customer service, and they suggested applying a UV-protective topcoat. It’s been a few weeks since I applied it, and so far, so good! Maybe worth a try?

3 Likes

I’ve used BioShield Clay Paint on drywall without any issues, but I’ve heard that natural paints can be tricky on surfaces that aren’t porous enough. Did you use a primer before applying the EarthHue? Sometimes, a good eco-friendly primer can make all the difference in adhesion.

2 Likes

@SunnyDays87 That’s a great tip about the UV-protective topcoat! I hadn’t thought of that. I’ll definitely look into it. Did you use a specific brand for the topcoat?

1 Like

@EcoWarriorMike I did use a primer, but maybe it wasn’t the right type for natural paint. Do you have any recommendations for eco-friendly primers that work well with EarthHue or similar paints?

1 Like

I’ve been using Auro Natural Paint for years, and it’s held up beautifully, even in sunny areas. It’s a bit pricier, but the quality and durability are worth it. They also have a great range of colors. Might be worth considering if you’re looking for alternatives.

4 Likes

@NatureLover99 Thanks for the recommendation! I’ll check out Auro Natural Paint. Do you know if it’s compatible with drywall?

1 Like

I had peeling issues with a different brand of natural paint, and it turned out to be due to high humidity in the room. I installed a dehumidifier, repainted, and haven’t had any problems since. Maybe check the humidity levels in your living room?

2 Likes

@DIYQueen That’s an interesting point about humidity. My living room does get quite humid in the summer. I’ll look into getting a dehumidifier. Thanks for the suggestion!

1 Like

It’s crucial to consider the surface preparation and the specific formulation of the natural paint. Some natural paints are formulated for specific surfaces and may not adhere well to others. Also, temperature fluctuations can indeed affect the paint’s performance. Ensuring the room is well-ventilated and at a stable temperature can help.

3 Likes

@PaintPro123 Thanks for the insights! I’ll make sure to keep the room well-ventilated and monitor the temperature. It’s all about finding the right balance for natural paints, isn’t it?

1 Like