When it comes to affordability and time until completion, UPVC spraying of your windows, doors, garages, conservatories and more is the much better choice compared to outright replacement. However, a common concern that leaves people on the fence about actually pursuing the services of a professional UPVC spraying company, is the potential health risks associated with the fumes from the spray paint.

Whether you’re sprucing up your windows, doors, or conservatory, it’s important to understand what’s involved in the process and how to stay safe. In this blog post, we will address whether the fumes from UPVC spraying are toxic, how to protect yourself during the spraying process, and what safety measures are in place to ensure that the service is carried out in a safe manner.

Should I be worried about the UPVC spraying fumes?

The short answer is – no, but there are precautions to take.

While the fumes produced during UPVC spraying aren’t inherently toxic when proper safety measures are followed, they do contain chemicals that could be harmful if mishandled. The key factors for safety are adequate ventilation, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and high-quality products. When you choose a professional and experienced UPVC spraying contractor like Spray Vue, you won’t need to worry about managing these safety aspects yourself. Our team handles all fume management and dissipation, ensuring the complete safety of your family, pets and plants throughout the process.

The chemicals involved in UPVC spraying

UPVC spray paint is typically made from a combination of solvents and resins, which help the paint adhere to the surface of your UPVC fixtures. These chemicals can produce fumes during the application process which includes the likes of:

• Solvents – Used to thin the paint and ensure a smooth and even application
• Isocyanates – These are chemicals commonly found in spray paints, and prolonged exposure without the proper precautions can irritate the respiratory system.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – These compounds can contribute to air pollution (similar to spray-on deodorants and hair products) and have the potential to irritate the eyes, skin and throat.

The important thing to note with all of this however is that, when applied in a controlled environment by professionals, the risk of toxic exposure is significantly reduced.

How to safely manage fumes

If you’re planning to have UPVC spraying completed, it’s important to ensure that the proper steps are taken to minimise exposure to fumes. Here are just a few ways to manage the spraying process safely.

• Ventilation – Ensure that the area is well-ventilated. This means either spraying in open-air, outdoor environments or, when indoors, opening windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and disperse any fumes.
• Protection equipment – Professional UPVC sprayers will typically wear PPE such as masks, gloves and goggles to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
• Distance and time – Avoid staying too close to the spraying area for extended periods, and try to stay out of the area until the paint has dried and the fumes have dissipated.
• Hire a professional – Professional UPVC spraying companies like Spray Vue follow strict health and safety guidelines to ensure that the spraying process is done with care, reducing the risks for you and your property.

What are the risks if safety precautions are not followed?

Like any project that involves chemicals, improper handling can pose health risks. If the necessary precautions aren’t followed, exposure to UPVC spraying fumes could result in:

• Respiratory issues – Breathing in fumes containing VOCs and isocyanates could lead to some minor irritation of the nose, throat and lungs.
• Skin and eye irritation – Chemicals in the spray paint can irritate the skin and eyes, especially if not handled properly.
• Long-term health effects – Continuous or high-level exposure to these chemicals can lead to more serious health issues over time, though this is unlikely with short-term, well-managed exposure.

How Spray Vue ensures safety during UPVC spray painting

When working with a certified UPVC spraying company like Spray Vue, safety is always a top priority. We are committed to delivering high-quality, long-lasting results while ensuring a safe environment for our team and our clients. Our trained professionals adhere to all safety protocols including:

Using low-VOC paints

We use high-quality, low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints that significantly reduce harmful emissions. These eco-friendly paints not only minimise the release of toxic fumes but also contribute to a safer and more sustainable spraying process.

Ensuring property ventilation

At Spray Vue, our spray paint applications take place exclusively outdoors, ensuring ample ventilation. This natural airflow helps to dissipate any fumes quickly, keeping the air around the property fresh and safe.

Wearing full protective gear

Our professional sprayers wear comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, gloves, and goggles. This protective gear prevents direct contact with the chemicals and minimises the risk of inhalation or skin irritation, ensuring the safety of our team during the spraying process.

Following all health and safety regulations

Spray Vue complies with all relevant health and safety regulations to ensure that our spraying process is carried out safely. We follow strict guidelines to protect both our team and our clients, including regular training on best practices and the use of safe materials and techniques. This commitment to safety is fundamental in delivering a quality service while keeping everyone protected.

Conclusion

While UPVC spraying does involve the use of chemicals that can produce fumes, these fumes are not typically toxic when the correct safety measures are in place. By ensuring proper ventilation, using protective gear, and relying on professional services like those offered by Spray Vue, the risks of exposure to harmful fumes can be minimised.

If you’re considering UPVC spraying for your windows, doors or conservatories, it’s important to choose a professional company that follows the necessary safety protocols to ensure a smooth and safe process. At Spray Vue, we take every precaution to ensure the safety of both our team and clients. If you’re interested in UPVC spraying services and would like more information or a free quote, feel free to contact us today!