Here's what you'll need to know, according to Milt Arnold, laboratory director at Duron, Inc. The date for national compliance with the Clean Air Revisions Act of 1996 was September 13,1999. There are still some non-compliant paints on the market, notably alkyd flat paints. The EPA requires buyers to pay an exceedence fee if they still use these paints after September 13. However, none of the latex paints will be affected by the new regulations.
Alkyds are less productive because they tend to dry slower, be harder to brush and yellow more.
Exterior alkyd paints are not as durable. Non-compliant paints made before September 13, can be sold legally after that date without violating the new regulations. Get additional VOC Information .