Can anyone share their experience with the cost difference between traditional and eco-friendly paint production?

Hey everyone! :herb: I’ve been diving deep into the world of eco-friendly renovations lately, and I’m currently at the stage where I’m choosing paints for my living room makeover. I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for a while now, and I’m absolutely in love with their claypaint range. It’s not just the low VOC content that gets me, but the texture and coverage are fantastic too. However, I’ve noticed that the price point is a bit higher than the conventional paints I’ve used in the past, like Dulux or Crown.

This got me thinking about the broader picture - the cost difference between traditional and eco-friendly paint production. I understand that natural paints often use more sustainable ingredients and processes, which might contribute to the higher cost. But I’m curious about your experiences. Have you found the price difference to be significant? And do you think the benefits (like better indoor air quality and less environmental impact) justify the extra cost?

Also, if you’ve tried any other brands or types of natural paints, I’d love to hear about your experiences. How did they compare in terms of cost, application, and finish? Let’s share our stories and tips to help each other make more informed choices for our homes and the planet. :earth_africa:

Hey @GreenThumbJenny, great topic! I’ve been using Auro Natural Paints for my projects and yes, the cost is higher compared to traditional paints. But when you consider the environmental benefits and the fact that you’re not breathing in harmful chemicals, I think it’s worth every penny. Plus, the durability and coverage are top-notch. Have you looked into any bulk buying options or discounts for eco-friendly paints? Sometimes local eco-stores offer deals.

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I’ve tried both Earthborn and Farrow & Ball eco-friendly options. The price difference is noticeable, but the quality and finish are incomparable. Traditional paints might save you money upfront, but the long-term benefits of natural paints, like better air quality and less environmental impact, are priceless. Plus, the colors are so vibrant and rich!

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@EcoWarriorSam, thanks for the tip! I hadn’t thought about bulk buying. I’ll definitely check out local stores for deals. Auro Natural Paints sound interesting; I’ll have to give them a try. How do you find their color range?

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I’ve been experimenting with making my own natural paints using lime, clay, and natural pigments. It’s a bit of a process, but the cost is significantly lower, and it’s incredibly satisfying to know exactly what’s going on my walls. Plus, the texture is unique and adds so much character to a room. Has anyone else tried DIY natural paints?

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@DIYQueen, that’s amazing! I’ve been curious about making my own paints. Do you have any resources or recipes you could share? I’d love to try it out for a small project.

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@PaintLover88, I completely agree about the colors! I used Farrow & Ball in my bedroom, and the depth of color is something you just don’t get with traditional paints. It’s like the walls come alive. The cost is higher, but for me, it’s about investing in my home and the planet.

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I’m all for eco-friendly paints, but the cost is a big barrier for me. I’ve found that mixing traditional paints with a bit of eco-friendly paint can help reduce costs while still being somewhat environmentally conscious. It’s not perfect, but it’s a step in the right direction. Has anyone else tried this approach?

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@BudgetEco, that’s an interesting approach! I hadn’t thought about mixing paints. Do you notice a difference in the finish or durability when you mix them?

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I’ve been using Auro for a while now, and while the upfront cost is higher, the difference in application and finish is night and day compared to traditional paints. The depth of color and how it feels to live in a space painted with natural paints is something you can’t put a price on. Plus, knowing you’re not contributing to harmful emissions makes it worth every penny.

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I agree with the sentiment about the quality and finish of eco-friendly paints. I tried Little Greene and was blown away by the vibrancy of their colors. Yes, it’s pricier, but when you consider the longevity and the fact that you’re not repainting as often because the colors stay true, it balances out. It’s an investment in your home and the environment.

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I’ve experimented with both Ecos Paints and traditional brands. The cost difference is there, but I think it’s misleading to just look at the price per can. Eco-friendly paints often require fewer coats and have better coverage, so you might end up using less. Over time, I’ve found that the cost evens out, and the benefits to the environment and the quality of the paint make it a no-brainer for me.

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That’s really interesting about making your own paints! I’ve always been curious about the DIY route but worried about the consistency and durability. How do you find the longevity of your homemade paints compared to store-bought ones? Also, do you have any tips for someone looking to start making their own?

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I’ve been using eco-friendly paints for a few years now, and while the upfront cost is higher, I think it’s worth it in the long run. Not just for the environmental benefits, but also because they tend to last longer and cover better. I haven’t tried making my own, though. That sounds like a fun project! What’s the learning curve like for getting the mix right?

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I’ve been down the eco-friendly paint route before, and yeah, the cost can be a bit of a shocker at first. But when you think about the long-term benefits, like not having to repaint as often because the quality is better, it kinda balances out. Plus, the peace of mind knowing you’re not off-gassing a bunch of nasty chemicals into your home is priceless. I haven’t tried mixing paints though, sounds like a clever hack.

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Mixing traditional with eco-friendly paints? That’s an interesting approach. I’ve always been all or nothing, but I can see how that could make the transition easier on the wallet. I wonder though, does it dilute the eco benefits too much? Like, are you still getting the low VOC and all that good stuff if you’re only partially using eco-friendly paint?

I get where you’re coming from with the cost concern. It’s a tough pill to swallow, especially when you’re doing a whole house. I’ve found that some eco-friendly brands offer discounts or promotions if you buy in bulk, which can help. Also, sometimes local eco stores have sales or can recommend budget-friendly options. Might be worth looking into.

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The cost difference is real, but I think it’s also about where you’re buying from. I’ve noticed that online eco-friendly paint stores sometimes have better prices than physical stores. Plus, you can often find reviews and tips on application that can save you money in the long run by not wasting product. Has anyone else found good deals online?