American Clay Plaster

One of the processes in home construction that can affect people with allergies and sensitivities is paint. Wallpaper is another culprit. The product of choice is American clay plaster, made by a company in Albuquerque, NM. American clay plaster is a convenient, eco friendly substitute for cement, gypsum, acrylic, and lime. To follow, wallpaper and paint are ranked against American clay plaster, so you can have an idea of the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Good Wall Treatment Idea: Paint

Paint looks great on walls, but the conventional versions give off volatile organic compounds (VOC’s), chemicals that can reduce indoor air quality and are harmful to your health. The new, low-VOC paints contain no ozone-depleting chemicals, have little odor, and are non-flammable. Unfortunately, paint is susceptible to UV fading, and your walls will change color over time.

Better Wall Treatment Idea: Wallpaper

While vinyl wallpapers release VOC’s, the scent dissipates more rapidly than for paint. Adhesives used in pre-pasted wallpaper may also give off some vapor, but the off gassing isn’t thought to be noteworthy, according to the American Lung Association. However, wallpaper can harbor mold, which aggravates a plethora of health conditions. Mold spreads rapidly, with invisible roaming spores flying through the air.

Best Wall Treatment Idea: American Clay Plaster

This product is made from natural clays, used and reclaimed aggregates. It is non-dusting, mold and fade resistant, repairable, and easy to work with and apply. It’s also fire resistant, dust resistant, non-toxic (no VOC’s), temperature and humidity controlling, and more. The great thing about American clay plaster is that it has the qualities of natural earth materials, with infinite color variations and natural pigments.

American clay plaster is incredibly versatile, and you can use it to achieve any effect, from adobe to Venetian plaster. The type of application tool determines the finished look.