Hey everyone! I've been proactive about protecting my health due to some prior issues, so I asked my landlord to use Eco Bond to paint my older apartment, especially after signing the lead paint acknowledgment. I've noticed that, despite the label claiming 'Low VOCs', the smell is really strong and it's giving me cognitive symptoms like brain fog after just 30 minutes of being inside. I've spent the last three weeks trying to air it out using a high-quality air filter, dehumidifier, and fans, along with some charcoal odor absorbers. I'm wondering if there's anything else I can do? One thought I had was to paint over the lead encapsulating paint with another type of paint. Would that help or make things worse? If this post is better suited for another community, please let me know! Thanks!
2 Answers
Are you sure they actually used Eco Bond? It should be a water-based paint, and typically oil-based paints are the ones that give off lingering odors. If it is oil-based, the smell might last for about another month. Unfortunately, apart from ventilating the space, there’s not much else you can do. Masking the smell could help a little, but it won't tackle the dizziness you're experiencing.
I assume you contacted them about this? If they actually used Eco Bond as intended, it might just need more time to air out. But if it’s oil-based for some reason, it definitely will fade, but it might take a while. Keep the windows open as much as you can!