GS-11-Standard-Ed-4.1_03.2025~1.pdf

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Standard for Paints, Coatings, Stains, and Sealers (GS-11)

March 11, 2025

Edition 4.1

March 11, 2025 Paints, Coatings, Stains, and Sealers, GS-11

Copyright © 2025 Green Seal, Inc.

All Rights Reserved.

Green Seal

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Green Seal sets leadership standards that aim to reduce the environmental and health impacts throughout the life cycle of products, services, and companies, to the extent technologically and economically feasible. The standards may be used for conformity assessment and public education.

Green Seal offers certification of products and services in conformance with its standards. For additional information on Green Seal and contact information, visit greenseal.org.

Table of Contents

Foreword

List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

1.0 Scope

2.0 Safer Chemicals

2.1 Safer Ingredients

2.1.1 Carcinogens, Mutagens, and Reproductive Toxins

2.1.2 Nanoparticles

2.1.3 Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

2.1.4 Prohibited Ingredients

2.1.5 Volatile Aromatic Hydrocarbons

2.2 Safer Products

2.2.1 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Content Limits

2.2.2 Colorant Added at Point-of-Sale

2.2.3 VOCs Emissions Evaluation

3.0 Sustainable Packaging

3.1 Packaging

3.1.1 Packaging

3.2 Restricted Substances

3.2.1 Material Restrictions

4.0 Verified Performance and Claims

4.1 Product Performance

4.1.1 Wall and Ceiling Coatings for Interior Use

4.1.2 Wall and Ceiling Coatings for Exterior Use

4.1.3 Floor Paints

4.1.4 Floor Coatings

4.1.5 Anti-Corrosive Coatings

4.1.6 Non-Elastomeric Reflective Wall Coatings

4.1.7 Elastomeric Reflective Wall Coatings

4.1.8 Reflective Roof Coatings

4.1.9 Fire Resistive and Intumescent Coatings

4.1.10 Concrete and Masonry Sealers

4.1.11 Wood Stains for Interior Use

4.1.12 Wood Stains for Exterior Use

4.1.13 Wood Finishes for Interior Use

4.1.14 Wood Finishes for Exterior Use

4.1.15 Interior Clear Metal Lacquers

4.1.16 Exterior Clear Metal Lacquers

4.1.17 Alternative Performance Requirements

4.2 Product Label

4.2.1 User Information

4.2.2 Product Label

5.0 Trademark Use Requirements

5.1 Trademark Use

5.2 Misleading Claims

Annex A – Definitions (Normative)

Appendix 1 – Scope (Informative)

Appendix 2 – Carb SCM 2007 VOC Limits (Informative)

Appendix 3 – CDPH V1.2 Target CREL VOCs (Informative)

Appendix 4 – List Of Test Methods (Informative)

Foreword

General. The final issued standard was developed in an open and transparent process with stakeholder input that included producers, users, and general interests. Edition 4.1 was issued on March 11, 2025. It replaces

Edition 4.0 from September 7, 2021. Corrections and/or clarifications were last made to this standard on

August 23, 2024. Information on changes made to this standard are available on Green Seal’s website.1

The requirements in the standard are based on an assessment of the environmental, health, or social impacts associated with the products, services, or organizations covered in the scope of the standard. These requirements are subject to revision and generally cover aspects above and beyond regulatory compliance.

This standard neither modifies nor supersedes laws and regulations. Any conformity assessment to this standard requires compliance with all applicable laws and regulations for the manufacturing and marketing of the products.

Provisions for safety have not been included in this standard since they are supervised by regulatory agencies. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property should be employed for all stages of production and for all tests that involve safety considerations.

Products, services, or organizations that are substantially similar to those covered by this standard in terms of function and life cycle considerations may be evaluated against the intent of the requirements of this standard, accounting for relevant differences between the intended scope of the standard and the actual product, service, or organization to be evaluated.

This standard may not anticipate a feature of the product that may significantly, and undesirably, increase its impact on the environment, health, or society. In such a situation, Green Seal will ordinarily amend a standard to account for the unanticipated environmental, health, or societal impacts.

Normative references (e.g., other standards) in this standard intend to refer to the most recent edition of the normative reference. Test methods may be required for product evaluation. Unless explicitly stated that a specified method is the only acceptable one, the intent of the standard is that an equivalent test method may be accepted, at Green Seal’s sole discretion.

Certification to this standard shall be awarded only by Green Seal or, with Green Seal’s explicit written permission, by a third-party certification program conducting on-site audits.

Disclaimer of Liability. Green Seal, as the developer of this standard, shall not incur any obligations or liability for any loss or damages, including, without limitation, indirect, consequential, special, or incidental damages, arising out of or in connection with the interpretation or adoption of, reliance upon, or any other use of this standard by any party. Green Seal makes no express or implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, nor any other express or implied warranty with respect to this standard.

1 https://greenseal.org/green-seal-standards/library#section5 https://greenseal.org/green-seal-standards/library#section5

List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

ANSI. American National Standards Institute

ASTM. ASTM International (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials)

BHMA. Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association

CARB. California Air Resources Board

CDPH. California Department of Public Health

CFR. Code of Federal Regulations

CREL. Chronic Reference Exposure Levels

CRRC. Cool Roof Rating Council

EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency

GHS Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals

NFPA. National Fire Protection Association

ISO. International Organization for Standardization

oz. Ounce(s) ppm. Parts Per Million psi. Pounds Per Square Inch

SCAQMD. South Coast Air Quality Management District

SCM 2007 Suggested Control Measures (set by CARB in 2007)

SSPC Society for Protective Coatings (formerly Steel Structures Painting Council)

UN. United Nations

UV. Ultraviolet

VOC. Volatile Organic Compound

Green Seal Standard for Paints, Stains, Coatings, and Sealers, GS-11

1.0 Scope

This standard establishes environmental, health, and performance requirements for certain architectural coatings that are intended to be applied on-site, and for stains, finishes, and sealers.

The standard covers the following product categories for interior and exterior architectural use: wall and ceiling coatings, including paints and reflective wall coatings; anticorrosive coatings, including rust-preventive coatings; floor paints; primers (undercoats); stains; finishes; and sealers, including concrete and masonry sealers (both penetrating and film-forming products) for interior and exterior use and basement specialty coatings for interior use. The standard also covers floor coatings intended for general purposes in commercial and residential settings,2 as well as fire-resistive coatings, including intumescent coatings for interior architectural use and reflective roof coatings for exterior architectural use.

The standard includes products intended to be applied to wallboard, tile, metal, wood, composite wood, concrete, stone, masonry, and terrazzo substrates, as well as other architectural substrates. Also included are stains, finishes, and sealers generally applied to non-architectural metal and wood substrates.

All product categories may be clear, transparent, or opaque.

The standard does not include recycled (consolidated or reprocessed) latex paint, floor finishes/polishes intended to be stripped and reapplied periodically, specialty non-architectural coatings (e.g., coatings for industrial equipment, marine or automotive use), products sold in aerosol cans, or anti-graffiti coatings.3 The standard is not intended to define leadership criteria for industrial maintenance coatings, intended for resistance in challenging environments, such as acid/base/corrosive surroundings or extreme temperatures.

However, products that are labeled as industrial maintenance coatings may be certified to this standard if they meet all the criteria for the product category whose function most closely aligns with them.

See Appendix 1 for a sample list of products that are or are not included in this standard.

Words and phrases that appear in italics are defined in Annex A.

2.0 Safer Chemicals

All requirements pertain to the product produced by the manufacturer and do not include additives introduced at the point-of-sale, unless otherwise specified.

2.1 Safer Ingredients

2.1.1 Carcinogens, Mutagens, and Reproductive Toxins. The product shall not contain any ingredients that are carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxins.

2 Floor coatings that are not intended for resistance in challenging environments, such as acid/base/corrosive surroundings or extreme temperatures. General purposes may include shopping centers, airport lobbies, grocery stores, office buildings, homes, and garages.

3 Green Seal has not conducted a comprehensive review of the chemistry, health, and environmental effects or the performance of anti-graffiti coatings. These product categories may be addressed in a future revision of this standard.

Exemption: An exception shall be made for titanium dioxide and, for products that are pre-tinted by the manufacturer, carbon black. As allowed under this exception, carbon black shall be less than or equal to 1% by weight of the product.4

Exemption: Free crystalline silica5 shall not be intentionally added to the product as an ingredient.

Crystalline silica present as a naturally occurring contaminant in mineral-based raw materials6 is not included in this prohibition.

Naturally occurring elements and chlorinated organics, which may be present as a result of chlorination of the water supply, are not considered ingredients if the concentrations are below the applicable maximum contaminant levels in the National Primary Drinking Water Standards found in 40

CFR, Part 141.

2.1.2 Nanoparticles. Reserved. 7

2.1.3 Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). The product shall not contain any ingredients or components that are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).

2.1.4 Prohibited Ingredients. The product shall not contain the following ingredients:

• 1,2-dichlorobenzene

• Alkylphenol ethoxylates

• Formaldehyde donors

• Hazardous air pollutants

• Halogenated organic solvents o Additionally, methylene chloride8 and perchloroethylene9 shall not be intentionally added to the product.

• Ozone-depleting compounds

• Heavy metals: lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and antimony in the elemental form or compounds

• The phthalate esters:

o di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate o butyl benzyl phthalate o di-n-butyl phthalate o di-n-octyl phthalate o diethyl phthalate o dimethyl phthalate

• Triphenyl tins and tributyl tins

• Triclosan

4 Titanium dioxide: EC Number 236-675-5, CAS Number 13463-67-7; carbon black: EC Number 215-609-9, CAS Number 1333-86-4.

5 Crystalline silica is currently listed as a known human carcinogen when respired.

6 Examples of mineral-based raw materials include mined extender pigments, calcium carbonate, and diatomaceous earth.

7 Green Seal has not conducted a comprehensive review of the chemistry, health, and environmental effects or the performance of products that contain engineered nanoparticles. Products with engineered nanomaterials may be addressed in a future revision of this standard.

8 CAS Number 75-09-2, EC Number 200-838-9.

9 CAS Number 127-18-4, EC Number 204-825-9.

Exemption: For the following product categories, cobalt and manganese are allowed at levels that do not exceed 0.06% (as total metal) in the product: wood stains, wood finishes, and clear metal lacquers

(Sections 4.1.11–4.1.16 in this standard).

Exemption: For lacquers intended for metal substrates only, PCBTF (parachlorobenzotrifluoride, CAS# 98-56-6), a halogenated organic solvent, is allowed at levels that do not exceed 10% by weight in the product.

2.1.5 Volatile Aromatic Hydrocarbons. The product shall contain no more than 0.5% by weight of sum total of volatile aromatic hydrocarbons.10

2.2 Safer Products

2.2.1 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Content Limits. The VOC content of the product shall not exceed the content limits for its product category as set by CARB Suggested Control Measure for

Architectural Coatings (2007).11

Exception: For low-solids coatings, the CARB VOC limit for low-solids coatings shall apply instead of the VOC limit that would otherwise apply for the product category (as mandated by CARB).12

Exception: Products labeled as industrial maintenance coatings shall meet the VOC limits for their relevant product category.13

Exception: Products sold in containers equal to or smaller than 1 liter are not exempted from the VOC content limit for their product category (even though exempted by CARB).14

For other product categories not regulated by CARB, the VOC level shall not exceed a limit set by

CARB for a similar product category. If no CARB category, or similar CARB product category exists, the VOC limit shall not exceed the limit for the applicable product category in the South Coast Air

Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1113, effective June 3, 2011.

2.2.1.1 Calculation of VOC Content.

Coating VOC: For all product categories except low-solids coatings, the VOC content of the product shall be calculated according to “VOC Regulatory,”15

Where:

10 Testing for the concentration of these compounds will be performed if they are determined to be present in the product during a materials audit.

11 See Appendix 2 for the VOC limits specified in California Air Resources Board Suggested Control Measure for Architectural Coatings (2007).

12 Note that low-solids coatings have a separate VOC limit and that their VOC content is calculated differently.

13 That is, they will not be allowed to meet the higher VOC limits set by CARB for industrial maintenance coatings. This standard is not intended to establish leadership criteria for industrial maintenance coatings per se (see Section 1.0).

14 CARB currently grants an exemption from VOC limits to products sold in containers equal to or smaller than 1 liter (known as the Small Container Exemption).

15 As defined in SCM, 2007, Subsection 4.66.

VOC Regulatory = grams of VOC per liter of coating, less water and exempt compounds

(also known as “Coating VOC”)

Ws = weight of volatiles, in grams

Ww = weight of water, in grams

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams

Vm = volume of coating, in liters

Vw = volume of water, in liters

Vec = volume of exempt compounds, in liters

VOCs for Low-Solids Coatings: For low-solids coatings, the VOC content of the product shall be calculated according to “VOC Actual,”16

Where:

VOC Actual = grams of VOC per liter of coating (also known as “Material VOC”)

Ws = weight of volatiles, in grams

Ww = weight of water, in grams

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams

Vm = volume of coating, in liters

Exempt compounds shall be those defined as such by the U.S. EPA.17

VOC content shall exclude colorants added at the point-of-sale and any VOCs generated as a result of chemical or curing reactions on-site.

For multi-component products, VOC content shall be determined based on the sum of all components added together, using the appropriate calculation.

2.2.1.2 Methods for Determining VOCs. The VOC content shall be determined in one of the following ways for compounds present in the product at 0.01% or more:

• Product Formulation

By summing the percentage by weight contribution from all VOC ingredients listed in the formulation of the product, and which have a boiling point of less than or equal to 280°C at

1 standard atmosphere (101.3 kPa).

• Mass Difference Methods

According to EPA Method 24, ASTM D2369, SCAQMD Method 304, or ISO 11890-1 (or equivalent), modified to include all VOC ingredients.

16 As defined in SCM, 2007, Subsection 4.64.

17 According to the definition of VOCs in this standard, exempt compounds are considered those listed by EPA in 40 CFR §51.100 (s).

The current version of this regulation can be found at http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=049f1f9562e072c158ad6e4a47d076a2&node=pt40.2.51&rgn=div5#se40.2.51_1100.

http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=049f1f9562e072c158ad6e4a47d076a2&node=pt40.2.51&rgn=div5#se40.2.51_1100 http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=049f1f9562e072c158ad6e4a47d076a2&node=pt40.2.51&rgn=div5#se40.2.51_1100

• GC/MS Methods

According to ASTM D6886, SCAQMD Method 313, or ISO 11890-2 (or equivalent), summing all those VOC ingredients that have a boiling point of less than or equal to 280°C at 1 standard atmosphere (101.3 kPa).

Another scientifically validated test method may be used if it is justified and documented in sufficient detail.

2.2.2 Colorant Added at Point-of-Sale. The criteria below apply to colorants specified by the manufacturer to be added to the product.

2.2.2.1 VOCs. The VOC concentration of the product including the colorant added at the point-of-sale shall not exceed 50 grams of VOC per liter of product above the levels allowed for the product without colorant.18

An average VOC level calculation for a colorant shall be applied unless a manufacturer can provide documentation of the VOC levels of the colorant(s) and assurance that only those colorant(s) tested shall be used with the product.19

2.2.2.2 PFAS. Colorant added at the point-of-sale shall not contain ingredients or components that are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).

2.2.3 VOCs Emissions Evaluation. Products intended for interior application shall be tested according to, and meet the emissions limits20 specified in, the California Department of Public Health

(CDPH) Standard Method v1.2 (2017).21 As specified within the CDPH Standard Method, product specimens must undergo testing for the full 14-day (336-hour) period.

Products marketed for use in school classrooms must be evaluated using the classroom scenario.

Products marketed for use in other spaces must be evaluated using the default private office scenario.

Laboratories that conduct the tests must be accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 for the test methods they use.

Note: See Appendix 3 for CDPH v1.2 emissions limits.

3.0 Sustainable Packaging

3.1 Packaging

3.1.1 Packaging. The primary packaging shall be one of the following:

• contain a minimum of 20% recovered material content.

• recyclable as part of a manufacturer’s take-back program.

• a source-reduced package.

18 VOC limits and measurement methods for the products are specified in Section 2.2.1.

19 If information is not available about the VOC content in the colorants, an average of 70 grams/liter from the colorant will be added to the VOC content of the base paint product, for each paint type (flat, nonflat, primer, etc.).

20 See Appendix 3 for the maximum allowable concentrations, specified in the CDPH Standard Method v1.2.

21 https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/CDPH%20Document%20Library/CDPH- IAQ_StandardMethod_V1_2_2017_ADA.pdf.

https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/CDPH%20Document%20Library/CDPH-IAQ_StandardMethod_V1_2_2017_ADA.pdf https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/CDPH%20Document%20Library/CDPH-IAQ_StandardMethod_V1_2_2017_ADA.pdf

Exemption: Plastic packaging containers may be exempted from the requirements of this section if they are manufactured for use in the shipment of hazardous materials and

• are prohibited from being manufactured with used material by federal packaging material specifications set forth in CFR 49, Sections 178.509 and 178.522, OR

• are subject to testing standards set forth in CFR 49, Sections 178.600 to 178.609, inclusive, OR

• are addressed by recommendations of the UN on the transport of dangerous goods.

3.2 Restricted Substances.

3.2.1 Material Restrictions.

3.2.1.1 Phthalates and the heavy metals lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium shall not be intentionally introduced in the packaging.

3.2.1.2 The sum of the concentrations of lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium in the packaging shall not exceed 100 ppm by weight (0.01%).

An exception to 3.2.1.1 and 3.2.1.2 is allowed for packages that would not contain these compounds except for the addition of recovered material.

4.0 Verified Performance and Claims

4.1 Product Performance

All criteria apply to the product produced by the manufacturer for all labeled and marketed uses that apply and do not include additives introduced at the point-of-sale.

4.1.1 Wall and Ceiling Coatings for Interior Use

4.1.1.1 General Requirements

4.1.1.1.1 Adhesion

• Products intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate 200 psi failure in the concrete, as determined by ASTM D7234, with concrete samples prepared according to

ASTM F710 or SSPC SP-13.

• Products not intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate a minimum of 50% or better rating for wet and dry adhesion over the intended substrate, as determined by

ASTM D3359.

4.1.1.1.2 Applicability (Flow and Leveling) shall be demonstrated by either

• a minimum 6 rating for foaming, leveling, and spatter resistance, as determined by

ASTM D7073,

OR

• a 12–14 minimum drawdown as tested by ASTM D4400.

4.1.1.2 Interior Topcoats shall also meet the following requirements:

4.1.1.2.1 Scrubbability (Abrasion Resistance). Using a shim, the product shall demonstrate

400 scrub cycles before failure per Leneta Calibration Scrub Panel Form P121-C, as determined by ASTM D2486.

4.1.1.2.2 Washability (Stain Removal). The product shall demonstrate the following minimum requirements for stain removal, as determined by ASTM D4828.

Flat Topcoat 5 minimum rating

Non-Flat Topcoat 7 minimum rating

4.1.1.3 Hiding Power (Opacity). Products intended to be opaque shall also demonstrate a minimum 0.95 contrast ratio at 400 square feet per gallon, as determined by ASTM D2805.

Compliance will be determined on dried film of the un-tinted product having a minimum 80% reflectance.

4.1.1.4 Impact Resistance. Products intended to provide impact resistance shall demonstrate impact resistance that is equivalent to or better than that of a benchmark product in its product class when tested according to ASTM D2794.

4.1.2 Wall and Ceiling Coatings for Exterior Use

4.1.2.1 General Requirements

4.1.2.1.1 Adhesion

• Products intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate 200 psi failure in the concrete, as determined by ASTM D7234, with concrete samples prepared according to

ASTM F710 or SSPC SP-13.

• Products not intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate a minimum 50% or better rating for wet and dry adhesion over the intended substrate, as determined by

ASTM D3359.

4.1.2.1.2 Applicability (Flow and Leveling) shall be demonstrated by either

• a minimum 6 rating for foaming, leveling, and spatter resistance, as determined by

ASTM D7073,

OR

• a 12–14 minimum drawdown, as tested by ASTM D4400.

4.1.2.2 Exterior Topcoats shall also meet the following requirements:

4.1.2.2.1 Fade Resistance. Using 4 oz. of red iron oxide pigment per gallon of product, the product shall demonstrate a minimum durability total color change of ΔE <5 over 1,000 hours using QUV-A bulbs with a moisture and/or condensation cycle, following the guidelines in

ASTM G151.

4.1.2.2.2 Flexibility. The product shall show no signs of cracking, peeling, or loss of adhesion, as determined by ASTM D522 under the following cure conditions: 3 days’ air dry followed by 1 week at 50°C.

4.1.2.2.3 Water Resistance. The product shall show no signs of washing off, lifting, or wrinkling, as tested by ASTM D1735.

4.1.2.3 Hiding Power (Opacity). Products intended to be opaque shall also demonstrate a minimum 0.95 contrast ratio at 400 square feet per gallon, as determined by ASTM D2805.

Compliance will be determined on dried film of the untinted product having a minimum 80% reflectance.

4.1.3 Floor Paints

4.1.3.1 General Requirements

4.1.3.1.1 Adhesion

• Products intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate 200 psi failure in the concrete, as determined by ASTM D7234, with concrete samples prepared according to

ASTM F710 or SSPC SP-13.

• Products not intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate a minimum 50% or better rating for wet and dry adhesion over the intended substrate, as determined by

ASTM D3359.

4.1.3.1.2 Applicability (Flow and Leveling) shall be demonstrated by a minimum 7 rating, as determined by ASTM D4062.

4.1.3.1.3 Dry Film Thickness. The product shall have a dry film thickness of 10 mils (0.25

mm) or less.

4.1.3.1.4 Alkali Resistance. The product shall show no signs of lifting, wrinkling, disintegration, or more than a slight color change after 16 hours of exposure to 0.5N sodium hydroxide solution by spot test, as determined by ASTM D1308.

4.1.3.1.5 Scrubbability (Abrasion Resistance). Using a C-17 wheel and 500-gram weight, the product shall demonstrate a wear index of 200 or less, as determined by ASTM D4060.

4.1.3.2 Exterior Topcoats shall also meet the following requirements:

4.1.3.2.1 Fade Resistance. Using 4 oz. of red iron oxide pigment per gallon of product, the product shall demonstrate a minimum durability total color change of ΔE <5 over 1,000 hours using QUV-A bulbs with a moisture and/or condensation cycle, following the guidelines in

ASTM G151.

4.1.3.2.2 Flexibility. The product shall show no signs of cracking, peeling, or loss of adhesion, as determined by ASTM D522 under the following cure conditions: 3 days’ air dry followed by 1 week at 50°C.

4.1.3.2.3 Water Resistance. The product shall show no signs of washing off, lifting, or wrinkling, as tested by ASTM D1735.

4.1.3.3 Hiding Power (Opacity). Products intended to be opaque shall also demonstrate a minimum 0.95 contrast ratio at 400 square feet per gallon, as determined by ASTM D2805.

Compliance will be determined on dried film of the un-tinted product having a minimum 80% reflectance.

4.1.4 Floor Coatings. For testing purposes, the dry film thickness of the product and curing duration shall be consistent with the manufacturer-recommended application.

4.1.4.1 Adhesion. The product shall demonstrate dry pull-off adhesion of at least 400 psi, as determined by ASTM D7234, with concrete samples prepared according to ASTM F710 or SSPC

SP-13.

4.1.4.2 Abrasion Resistance. Using a CS-17 wheel, 1,000-gram weight, and 1,000 cycles, the product shall have a weight loss of 100 mg or less, as determined by ASTM D4060.

4.1.4.3 Slip Resistance. The product shall have a dry static coefficient of friction of at least 0.5, as measured by either ASTM D2047 or UL 410.

4.1.4.4 Water and Salt Water Resistance. The product shall show no signs of lifting, wrinkling, disintegration, or color change after 7 days of exposure to water when tested according to ASTM

D1308. Products that will be subject to vehicular traffic shall also show no signs of lifting, wrinkling, disintegration, or color change after 7 days of exposure to a 15% sodium chloride solution when tested according to ASTM D1308.

4.1.4.5 Chemical Resistance. The product shall demonstrate chemical resistance that is equivalent to or better than that of a benchmark product in its product class for the majority of tested chemicals. Testing shall be conducted according to ASTM D1308 with a 16-hour exposure period. Testing shall include a minimum of 7 representative chemicals covering at least 3 of the following classes: detergents, acids, alkalis, alcohols, and aliphatic solvents. The selection of test chemicals shall be based on the marketed uses of the product.

4.1.4.6 Hot Tire Resistance. Products that will be subject to tire traffic shall demonstrate hot tire resistance with no loss of adhesion at a temperature of 140oF and a force that is representative of the product’s marketed use. Testing shall be conducted using an objective, scientifically validated method conducted under controlled and reproducible laboratory conditions. Test methodology and results shall be documented in sufficient detail.22

4.1.5 Anti-Corrosive Coatings23

4.1.5.1 Adhesion. The product shall demonstrate a minimum 50% or better rating for wet and dry adhesion over the intended substrate, as determined by ASTM D3359.

4.1.5.2 Applicability (Flow and Leveling) shall be demonstrated by either

• a minimum 6 rating for foaming, leveling, and spatter resistance, as determined by ASTM

D7073, OR

• a 12–14 minimum drawdown, as tested by ASTM D4400.

22 Test methodology should typically include use of a tire material sample. Tire pressure should be representative of the intended application for the floor coating (e.g., 50 to 150 psi) based on typical loads.

23 These include rust-preventative coatings.

4.1.5.3 Corrosion Resistance. Using manufacturer-recommended minimum dry film thickness and application to hot rolled steel panels,24 the product shall have a minimum rust rating of 9 per

SSPC-VIS 2 after 300 hours of exposure, as determined by ASTM D5894.

4.1.6 Non-Elastomeric Reflective Wall Coatings

4.1.6.1 Adhesion

• Products intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate 200 psi failure in the concrete, as determined by ASTM D7234.

• Products not intended to be applied on concrete shall demonstrate a minimum 50% or better rating for wet and dry adhesion over the intended substrate, as determined by ASTM

D3359.

4.1.6.2 Applicability (Flow and Leveling) shall be demonstrated by either

• a minimum 6 rating for foaming, leveling, and spatter resistance, as determined by ASTM

D7073, OR

• a 12–14 minimum drawdown, as tested by ASTM D4400.

4.1.6.3 Accelerated Weathering. The product shall show no signs of blistering, chalking, checking, cracking, flaking, or loss of adhesion with a maximum change of 10 gloss level units after 500 hours using QUV-A bulb, as measured by ASTM D714.

4.1.6.4 Flexibility. The product shall show no signs of cracking, peeling, or loss of adhesion, as determined by ASTM D522 under the following cure conditions: 3 days’ air dry followed by 1 week at 50°C.

4.1.6.5 Solar Reflectance. The product shall meet the requirements in the following table, as determined by ASTM C1549 or ASTM E1918.

Characteristic Performance Specification

Light Tones Dark Tones

Solar Reflectance ≥ 0.65 ≥ 0.40

4.1.6.6 Thermal Emittance. The product shall have a thermal emittance of 75% or more, as determined by ASTM C1371.

4.1.6.7 Hiding Power (Opacity). Products intended to be opaque shall also demonstrate a minimum 0.95 contrast ratio at 400 square feet per gallon, as determined by ASTM D2805.

Compliance will be determined on dried film of the un-tinted product having a minimum 80% reflectance.

24 The hot rolled steel test panels should adhere to Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) Paint 23 or Paint 24 specifications. If there is no recommended film thickness, then the DFT of each coat shall be 60 to 90 micrometers (2.5 to 3.5 mils).

4.1.7 Elastomeric Reflective Wall Coatings

4.1.7.1 Dry Film Thickness. The product shall have a dry-film thickness of at least 17 mils.

4.1.7.2 Accelerated Weathering. The product shall show no signs of cracking or checking after

1,000 hours, as determined by ASTM G155.

4.1.7.3 Elongation and Tensile Strength. The product shall show minimum 100% elongation and minimum 200 psi tensile strength, as determined by ASTM D2370.

4.1.7.4 Flexibility. The product shall demonstrate 0.5 mandrel bend at –15°F, as determined by

ASTM D522 with cure conditions of 3 days’ air dry followed by 1 week at 50°C.

4.1.7.5 Fungi Resistance. The product shall show zero rating, according to ASTM G21.

4.1.7.6 Solar Reflectance. The product shall meet the requirements in the following table, as determined by ASTM C1549 or ASTM E1918.

Characteristic Performance Specification

Light Tones Dark Tones

Solar Reflectance ≥ 0.65 ≥ 0.40

4.1.7.7 Thermal Emittance. The product shall have a thermal emittance of 75% or more, as

4.1.8 Reflective Roof Coatings

4.1.8.1 Physical Properties. The product shall meet the requirements in ASTM D6083.

4.1.8.2 Solar Reflectance. The product shall meet the requirements in the following table, as determined by ASTM C1549 or ASTM E1918.

Characteristic Performance Specification

Low-Slope Roofs Steep-Slope Roofs

Initial Solar

Reflectance ≥ 0.65 ≥ 0.25

Maintenance of

Solar Reflection

≥ 0.50

(three years after installation under normal conditions)

≥ 0.15

(three years after installation under normal conditions)

4.1.8.3 Thermal Emittance. The product shall have a thermal emittance of 80% or more, as

4.1.9 Fire Resistive and Intumescent Coatings

4.1.9.1 Adhesion. The product shall demonstrate a minimum 50% or better rating for wet and dry adhesion over the intended substrate, as determined by ASTM D3359.

4.1.9.2 Applicability (Flow and Leveling) shall be demonstrated by either

• a minimum 6 rating for foaming, leveling, and spatter resistance, as determined by ASTM

D7073, OR

• a 12–14 minimum drawdown, as tested by ASTM D4400.

4.1.9.3 Fire Resistance.25 The product shall demonstrate a fire resistance rating that is consistent with the labeling,26 as determined by ASTM Designation E119.

4.1.9.4 Flame Spread and Smoke Development. The product shall demonstrate a Flame Spread

Index of 0–25 (Class A) and a Smoke Development Index of 0-450 (Class A), based on the Life

Safety Code (NFPA 101)[5] and Section 803.1 of the International Building Code, as determined using ASTM E84.

4.1.10 Concrete and Masonry Sealers

4.1.10.1 General Requirements. Except for basement specialty coatings, the product shall be tested for each performance parameter in this section that is included on the product label or marketing. Each test shall demonstrate that the product performs as well as or better than a benchmark product in its product class.

For purposes of the test, the curing duration of the concrete/masonry sealer shall be similar to that of the benchmark product, and for film forming products, the dry-film thickness of the concrete/masonry sealer shall be similar to that of the benchmark product. Both shall be representative of the manufacturer-recommended application. Testing shall be performed according to the following standard test methods or equivalent test methods:

4.1.10.1.1 Water Resistance. ASTM C67, ASTM C97, or ASTM C140

4.1.10.1.2 Fungi Resistance. ASTM D3273 or ASTM D3274

4.1.10.1.3 Abrasion Resistance /Hardening of Cured Concrete. ASTM D4060

4.1.10.1.4 Alkali Resistance. ASTM D1308

4.1.10.1.5 Acid Resistance. ASTM D1308

4.1.10.1.6 Staining Resistance. ASTM D1308

4.1.10.1.7 UV Light Resistance. ASTM G15127

4.1.10.1.8 Water Vapor Transmission. ASTM E96/E96M

4.1.0.2 Basement Specialty Coatings shall meet the following performance requirements and demonstrate any of the additional parameters (4.1.10.1.3–4.1.10.1.8) included on the product label or marketing:

25 Fire-resistive coatings and the agencies that test them must be approved by building code officials.

26 For example, 1-hour, 2-hour, or 4-hour.

27 Suggested test parameters include 1,000 hours using QUV-A bulbs with a moisture and/or condensation cycle, unless otherwise appropriate for the product.

4.1.10.2.1 Water Resistance. The product must be capable of withstanding at least 10 psi of hydrostatic pressure, as determined according to ASTM D7088.

4.1.10.2.2 Fungi Resistance. The product must be resistant to mold and mildew growth and must achieve a microbial growth rating of 8 or more, as determined according to ASTM D3273 and ASTM D3274.

4.1.11 Wood Stains for Interior Use

4.1.11.2 Blush Resistance. When prepared and tested on a dry film thickness of 1 mil according to ASTM D1735 for 2 hours, the product shall have a rating of 8 as per ASTM

STP500 after a 24-hour recovery period.

4.1.11.2 Chemical Resistance. When tested according to ASTM D1308 using the covered spot test for 1-hour exposure over the intended substrate, and after a 1-hour recovery period, the product shall demonstrate a rating of 8 as per ASTM STP500.

4.1.12 Wood Stains for Exterior Use

4.1.12.1 Exterior Penetrating Stains

4.1.12.1.1 Blush Resistance. When prepared and tested on a 1 mil–thick dry film according to

ASTM D1735 for 2 hours, the product shall have a rating of 8 as per ASTM STP500 after a 24-hour recovery period.

4.1.12.2 Exterior Film-Forming Stains

4.1.12.2.1 Blush Resistance. When prepared and tested on a 1 mil–thick dry film according to

ASTM D1735 for 2 hours, the product shall have a rating of 7 as per ASTM STP500 after a 24-hour recovery period.

4.1.12.2.2 Pencil Hardness. When prepared and tested on a 1 mil–thick dry film according to

ASTM D3363, the product shall have a pencil hardness of 2H or greater.

4.2.12.2.3 Adhesion. The product shall have an adhesion of 3B or higher after 7 days’ cure time when tested according to ASTM D3359 on a dried film of 0.5 to 1 mil thickness.

4.1.13 Wood Finishes for Interior Use

4.1.13.1 Pencil Hardness. When prepared and tested on a 1 mil–thick dry film according to ASTM

D3363–92a, the product shall have a pencil hardness of 2H or greater.

4.1.13.2 Chemical Resistance. When tested according to ASTM D1308 for 1 hour with the covered spot test and a 1-hour recovery period over the intended substrate, the product shall demonstrate a rating of 8 as per ASTM STP500.

4.1.13.3 Adhesion. The product shall have an adhesion of 4B or higher after 7 days’ cure time when tested according to ASTM D3359 on a dried film of 0.5 to 1 mil thickness.

4.1.13.4 Water Resistance. If intended as a waterproofing sealer, the product shall show a minimum 60% water repellent efficiency when tested according to ASTM D4446.

4.1.14 Wood Finishes for Exterior Use

4.1.14.1 Pencil Hardness. When prepared and tested on a 1 mil–thick dry film according to ASTM

D3363, the product shall have a pencil hardness of 2H or greater.

4.1.14.2 Dry Time. When tested according to ASTM D1640, the product shall have a maximum dry-to-touch time of 4 hours.

4.1.14.3 Adhesion. The product shall have an adhesion of 4B or higher after 7 days’ cure time when tested according to ASTM D3359 on a dried film of 0.5 to 1 mil thickness.

4.1.14.4 Blister Resistance. The product shall have a rating of 10 as per ASTM D714 when tested according to ASTM D4585 for 24 hours at 100oF.

4.1.14.5 Water Resistance. If intended as a waterproofing sealer, the product shall show a minimum of 60% water repellent efficiency when tested according to ASTM D4446.

4.1.15 Interior Clear Metal Lacquers

4.1.15.1 Chemical Resistance. When tested according to ASTM D1308 for 1 hour with the covered spot test and a 1-hour recovery period over the intended substrate, the product shall demonstrate a rating of 8 as per ASTM STP500.

4.1.15.2 Adhesion. The product shall have an adhesion of 4B or higher after 7 days’ cure time when tested according to ASTM D3359 on a dried film of 0.5 to 1 mil thickness.

4.1.15.3 Surface Hardness. The product shall have a minimum surface hardness of 3H when tested according to ASTM D3363 (7.1.1) on a dried film of 1/3 to 1 mil thickness.

4.1.15.4 Moisture Resistance. The product shall have a moisture resistance of a minimum of 48 hours when tested according to ASTM D2247.

4.1.15.5 Salt Spray Resistance. The product shall have a minimum salt spray resistance of 24 hours when tested according to ASTM B117.

4.1.15.6 Wear Resistance. The wear resistance shall be 8 liters or higher when tested according to ASTM D968, applying the product according to ASTM D823 with silica, and on a 1/3- to 1-mil dry film thickness measured according to ASTM D1005, ASTM D1186, or ASTM D1400.

4.1.15.7 Reversibility. When tested according to ASTM D4752 with a maximum 20 double rubs for complete removal on a 1/3- to 1-mil dry film, the product must be able to be removed by nothing stronger than acetone after an air dry of 72 hours.

4.1.15.8 Perspiration Resistance. The product shall have a minimum of 2 cycles when tested according to ANSI/ BHMA A156.18.

4.1.16 Exterior Clear Metal Lacquers

4.1.16.1 Adhesion. The product shall have an adhesion of 4B or higher after 7 days’ cure time when tested according to ASTM D3359 on a dried film of 0.5 to 1 mil thickness.

4.1.16.2 Surface Hardness. The product shall have a minimum surface hardness of 3H or higher when tested according to ASTM D3363 (7.1.1) on a dried film of 1/3 to 1 mil thickness.

4.1.16.3 Moisture Resistance. The product shall have a moisture resistance of a minimum of 96 hours (4 days) when tested according to ASTM D2247.

4.1.16.4 Chemical Resistance. The product shall demonstrate a rating of 10 when tested in accordance with ASTM D-1308; 3-1-2; 6-1-7 for a minimum 15 minutes.

4.1.16.5 Salt Spray Resistance. The product shall have a minimum salt spray resistance of 96 hours (4 days) when tested in accordance with ASTM B117.

4.1.16.6 Wear Resistance. The wear resistance shall be 4 liters or higher when tested according to ASTM D968, applying the product according to ASTM D823 with silica, and on a 1/3- to 1-mil dry film thickness measured according to ASTM D1005, ASTM D1186, or ASTM D1400.

4.1.16.7 Reversibility. When tested according to ASTM D4752 with a maximum 20 double rubs for complete removal on a 1/3 to 1 mil dry film, the product must be able to be removed by nothing stronger than acetone after an air dry of 72 hours.

4.1.16.8 UV Resistance. The product shall have an ultraviolet (UV) resistance of a minimum of

144 hours when tested with ASTM G154. The test specimen must be prepared and exposed according to ASTM G151.

4.1.17 Alternative Performance Requirements. Alternatively, the product shall demonstrate that it performs as well as or better than a benchmark product in its product class for the key parameters required for it to fulfill the intended function(s), as defined in the appropriate subsections of Section

4.0.

This comparison shall be conducted using an objective, scientifically validated method conducted under controlled and reproducible laboratory conditions. Test methodology and results shall be documented in sufficient detail.

4.2 Product Label

4.2.1 User Information. The manufacturer shall provide information to the consumer through print, online, or other accessible media, including:

• Instructions for purchasing the necessary amount of product needed for a specific job.

• Instructions for adequate ventilation during application and drying.

• Instructions on proper use of the product.

• A statement encouraging consultation with local authorities for proper disposal or recycling opportunities for leftover product and packaging.

• If a manufacturer provides a take-back program, instructions on how the product and packaging can be returned.

4.2.2 Product Label. The manufacturer’s label shall include a statement encouraging consultation with local authorities regarding proper disposal or recycling opportunities for leftover product and packaging.

The label shall include:

• instructions for appropriate purchasing, adequate ventilation during drying time, and proper use of the product, OR

• a reference to consumer education information by print, online, or other accessible media.

If the manufacturer provides a take-back program, the label shall include instructions on how the product and packaging can be returned.

5.0 Trademark Use Requirements

5.1 Trademark Use. Any use of the Green Seal® Certification Mark or the Green Seal name, e.g., on the product, product label, packaging, secondary documents, or promotional materials, must be in accordance with Green Seal’s Trademark Use Guidelines.28

5.2 Misleading Claims. Green Seal trademarks shall not appear in conjunction with any modifying terms, phrases, or graphic images that might mislead consumers as to the extent or nature of the certification.

28 www.greenseal.org/trademark-use-guidelines http://www.greenseal.org/trademark-use-guidelines

Annex A – Definitions (Normative)

The following terms are italicized throughout the standard.

Anti-corrosive Coating. A coating formulated and recommended for use in preventing the corrosion of metal substrates. Rust-preventative coatings are a subset of this class.

Architectural Coating. A coating applied at the site of installation to stationary structures and their accessories, to mobile homes, to pavements, or to curbs. Accessories may include bathroom and kitchen fixtures; cabinets; concrete forms; doors; elevators; fences; hand railings; heating equipment, air-conditioning equipment, and other fixed mechanical equipment or stationary tools; lampposts; partitions; pipes and piping systems; rain gutters and downspouts; stairways, fixed ladders, catwalks, and fire escapes; and window screens.

Basement Specialty Coating. A clear, transparent, or opaque coating that is labeled and formulated for application to concrete and masonry surfaces to provide a hydrostatic seal for basements and other below-grade surfaces.

Benchmark Product. A product used for comparison in performance testing. For the purposes of this standard, this is considered a national market-leading product, typically selected from the three or four top-selling brands or companies for its product class from nationwide data.29

Carcinogen. A chemical listed as a known, probable, reasonably anticipated, or possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (Groups 1, 2A, and 2B), the National Toxicology Program

(Groups 1 and 2), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Integrated Risk Information System (weight-of-evidence classifications A, B1, B2, and C, carcinogenic, likely to be carcinogenic, and suggestive evidence of carcinogenicity or carcinogen potential), or the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Clear Brushing Lacquer. A clear, protective finish intended exclusively for application by brush, excluding clear lacquer sanding sealers. This product is typically formulated with nitrocellulose or synthetic resins to dry by solvent evaporation, providing a solid, protective film.

Clear Metal Lacquer. Ferrous and nonferrous ornamental metal lacquer and surface protectants as classified under EPA, 40 CFR Part 59, 48848 Vol. 63, No. 176, September 1998, last amended 9-99. This classification refers specifically to clear coatings for the protection of polished and satin metal, such as brass, bronze, aluminum, and stainless steel.

Coating. A material applied onto or impregnated into a substrate for decorating, protecting, identifying, filling or concealing surface irregularities, modifying light and heat radiation characteristics, or other functional purposes.

Colorant. Concentrated color (dyes or pigments) that can be added to finished products to make specific colors. Unless otherwise specified, it is the maximum amount recommended for use by the manufacturer.

29 It is recommended that manufacturers discuss their product testing with Green Seal before the testing is performed to ensure that the choice of comparison product(s) is appropriate.

Component. A constituent that is deliberately added at any level for its continued presence in the final product to provide a specific characteristic, appearance, or quality.

Concrete and Masonry Sealer. A clear, transparent, or opaque coating that is intended primarily for application to concrete and masonry surfaces to perform one or more of the following functions: prevent penetration of water; provide resistance against abrasion, alkalis, acids, mildew, staining, or ultraviolet light; or harden or dustproof the surface of aged or cured concrete. Examples include penetrating and film-forming products for interior and exterior use and basement specialty coatings for interior use.

Conjugated Oil Varnish. A clear or transparent wood coating labeled as such, excluding lacquers or shellacs, based on a naturally occurring conjugated vegetable oil (tung oil), determined using ASTM D2245, modified with other natural or synthetic resins. A minimum 50% of the resin solids consist of conjugated oil.

Elastomeric Reflective Wall Coating. A coating that is designed and intended for the modification of light and heat radiation characteristics and has elastic properties allowing it to stretch in the summertime heat and return to its original shape without damage.30

Exterior. An exterior product is formulated and intended for application on outdoor surfaces. If a product is multipurpose (i.e., for interior and exterior application), the stricter requirement applies, and the product must meet all the appropriate performance criteria.

Film-forming. Providing a solid dry film on a substrate by creating a pliable, cohesive, and continuous covering.

Finish. A clear, transparent, or opaque coating that is intended for wood or metal substrates and forms a film that sits on or in the surface of the substrate. Examples include varnishes, shellacs, waterborne finishes, polyurethane, and lacquer (including lacquer sanding sealers).

Fire-resistive Coating. A coating that reduces the spread of fire by increasing the fire endurance of structural materials. Examples include sprayed fire-resistive materials and intumescent fire-resistive coatings that are used to bring structural materials into compliance with federal, state, and local building code requirements.

Flat. Having a specular gloss that registers less than 15 on an 85-degree meter or less than 5 on a 60-degree meter, according to ASTM D523.

Floor Paint. A paint that is intended for floors and applied by roller or brush. For the purposes of this standard, floor paints do not include epoxy or urethane flooring systems, or those that include coarse aggregates, color chips, or flakes as part of a multipart flooring system.

Floor Coating. A clear, transparent, or opaque coating that is intended to provide long-term durability on general-purpose flooring, such as concrete, masonry, tile, and terrazzo, typically found on floor surfaces in hallways, lobbies, stores, garages, or steps.