Low VOC Paint vs Regular - Any Paint Experts

[ShoeSlinger]

I live in California where we have low VOC paint as our only option, but I have the ability to get paint out of state (I can legally shoot it at my friend's shop since his County is exempt). Is there any real advantage regarding quality by using non low VOC paint? I know the price is much lower for standard paint but the quality it my primary concern. Thanks

 

[MikeCon]

Another strike for California.

 

[1970 Palmer]

I live in Orange County, CA, and we are required to use the low VOC paints. I do not see any difference in the long term usability, or the fade resistance in the sun UV rays. I also have not seen the exempt versions to be much different in cost. All quality automotive paints are expensive today. I painted single stage PPG (exempt VOC) and also had some parts powder coated the very same color. These two finishes sit outside in the sun every day. The exempt single stage color has held up much better than the color powder coated parts. These two different finishes are now three years old.

I understand the frustration of being required to use a special paint but I think you need to look at the larger picture. It's much easier to run down to your local paint store to get a extra product in the middle of a small paint job. You cannot do that with paint brought in from out of state.

I have begun to use "mail order" paint from TCP Global in San Diego to save some money. They sell all kinds of paint, and you get it in three days.

 

[markatherton]

low voc

There is a huge advantage with the non compliant paint. Especially with clear coat. It is much better and will last much longer. That's why you see so many vehicles with pealing clear coat in California

 

[duffymahoney]

I had paint issues on my bronco, I believe part of it comes from shitty low voc water based paint.

 

[elan]

I know guys that send their paint required vehicles to Arizona and some into Mexico. There is a shop in Tijuana my buddy sends his vintage V.W projects to get body work and paint. I'm no expert but I know my stuff and the body and paint come back perfect and none of the water based crap is used.

 

[markatherton]

voc

I am not even talking about water based paint. The older voc non compliant solvent based paint is way better then the current low voc solvent based paint.

 

[AZ69EB]

People drive to AZ from CA to purchase paint all the time. Especially, the lowrider custom car builders. The newer paints don’t perform as well as the old school solvent based paints for their application. Especially, when you are laying down 20 plus coats of paint. Lowrider’s have some of the best custom paint jobs you will ever see. These custom car might not be your style, but the craftsman is amazing.