Specifying Coatings That Last
The role of paints and coatings in sustainable architecture
Sponsored by BEHR
Durability is the foundation of sustainable architecture, as long-lasting building materials reduce maintenance needs and extend a project’s service life, supporting responsible construction practices. This is especially true for paints and coatings, which not only enhance a design’s aesthetic vision but also protect surfaces and preserve their integrity over time. Proper coating specification is fundamental to ensuring durability and long-term protection of substrates, making it a critical component of sustainable building solutions.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of why paint specification, substrate preparation, coating performance, and application all need to be carefully considered. Design professionals will gain the knowledge to make informed decisions that enhance building aesthetics, durability, and environmental performance, ensuring sustainable, long-lasting finishes.
Image courtesy of Behr
The Role of Paints and Coatings in Sustainable Architecture
Founded in 1947, Behr Paint Company is one of the largest manufacturers of paints, primers, decorative finishes, stains, surface preparation, and application products for do-it-yourselfers and professionals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Behr carries a full line of architectural and professional-grade paints, primers, and specialty products designed to meet the specifications of architects and designers for all types of construction and project conditions. The majority of BEHR® & KILZ® Products are GREENGUARD® Gold certified for low VOC emissions, contributing points toward green building rating systems including LEED, WELL, and the Living Building Challenge®. And Behr is proud to be named the Master Painters Institute Green Performance Champion for 2025, which honors manufacturers committed to green performance in the MPI Extreme GreenTM (“X-Green”) categories*. For more information, visit Behr.com/Pro to learn about products, color tools, and services.
GREENGUARD is a registered trademark of UL LLC. For more information, visit ul.com/gg. Certificates can be found on: spot.ul.com. See usgbc.org/LEEDfor details. *The MPI Green Performance Champion is determined by comparing the ratio of X-Green listings to the total number of listings in categories that have X-Green certification available. For more information, visit www.mpi.net/champions.
Originally published in Architectural Record
Originally published in October 2025
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Describe the importance of specifying the right coating for the right substrate
- List the five levels of drywall finishing and the different coating gloss and sheen levels
- Identify common coating issues, understand their root causes and how to prevent them
- Outline the specification and submittal review process
- Explain how durability is a key component of sustainability
