What Are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are invisible chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature, and they’re more common than you think. From paints and sealants to adhesives and everyday household products, VOCs can affect indoor air quality and long-term health. As a result, understanding VOCs is essential for builders, renovators, architects, and homeowners who want to create safer, healthier living environments.

With a focus on long-term moisture control, Tech-Dry offers damp-proofing systems engineered for lasting performance. We care about the air you breathe. That’s why many of our products are low-VOC, water-based, and designed to meet international safety standards, so you can build smarter without compromising wellbeing.

What Are VOCs?

VOCs are carbon-based compounds that vaporise into the air during application or over time. They’re released from a wide range of materials and products, including:

• Paints, varnishes, and surface coatings
• Waterproofing agents and sealants
• Cleaning products and air fresheners
• Treated timber, insulation, and carpets

While some VOCs are relatively harmless, others, like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, can cause short-term symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation. Over time, with prolonged or high-level exposure, certain VOCs have even been classified as carcinogens by health authorities.

Health Impacts of VOCs

The health effects of VOCs depend on the type of compound, concentration, and duration of exposure. Common symptoms include:

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
• Headaches and nausea
• Fatigue and dizziness
• Allergic skin reactions
• Worsening of asthma symptoms

Long-term exposure to high levels of VOCs has been associated with:

• Damage to the central nervous system
• Liver and kidney dysfunction
• Increased risk of certain cancers
• Developmental and reproductive issues in vulnerable populations

Children, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing respiratory conditions are especially sensitive to VOCs, making indoor air quality a critical concern in homes, schools, and healthcare settings.

Environmental Impacts of VOCs

Beyond their effects on human health, VOCs play a role in environmental degradation. When released into the atmosphere, they react with nitrogen oxides under sunlight to form ground-level ozone, a key component of smog. This can result in:

• Poor outdoor air quality
• Harm to vegetation and ecosystems
• Increased greenhouse gas effects
• Degradation of materials and infrastructure over time

Reducing VOC emissions is not just a personal health choice, it’s a step toward broader environmental responsibility.

Why VOCs Matter in Modern Construction

Modern buildings are designed to be energy-efficient and tightly sealed. While this helps reduce heating and cooling costs, it also means less natural ventilation, and more opportunity for VOCs to accumulate indoors.

This is especially relevant in:

• Basement renovations
• Bathroom waterproofing
• Interior wall sealing
• DIY home improvement projects

Poor airflow combined with VOC-heavy materials can lead to elevated exposure levels, particularly in enclosed spaces.

Tech-Dry’s Low-VOC Waterproofing Solutions

Tech-Dry has developed a range of low-VOC waterproofing products that protect against moisture, rising damp, and efflorescence—without compromising indoor air quality. Our solutions are:

• Water-based for safer application and cleanup
• Low in VOCs to reduce exposure
• Compliant with international VOC regulations and safety standards

From residential renovations to large-scale commercial developments, these products support environmental goals while providing reliable, long-lasting protection.

Build Smarter, Live Healthier

Though unseen, VOCs pose serious risks to air quality and human wellbeing. That’s why Tech-Dry is committed to delivering solutions that support both structural performance and environmental safety. Our low-VOC waterproofing products are engineered to provide effective protection while promoting healthier built environments and long-term peace of mind.

Need help choosing the right product? Contact Tech-Dry’s team for expert advice on low-VOC sealers, coatings, and damp-proofing systems.