Was your home constructed in the 70s? Old homes carry a certain charm and nostalgia that new builds can’t quite replicate. From beautiful crown molding and solid wood floors to classic architecture, there’s something magical about them.
However, with that magic comes a lurking danger—lead paint. If your home was built before 1978, there’s a good chance that lead-based paint was used in its construction. And while this paint might not seem like a big deal, lead exposure is extremely hazardous, especially to children and pregnant women.
In this article, we’ll discuss the risks of lead paint exposure, how to detect it, and—most importantly—how to safely remove it from your home.
What Happens When You Are Exposed to Lead Paint?
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems if ingested or inhaled. Lead-based paint is one of the most common sources of lead exposure in older homes. When lead paint starts to deteriorate, it can create lead dust, chips, and particles that can easily be absorbed into the body.
The dangers of lead poisoning are particularly severe for young children, pregnant women, and pets, but adults are also at risk.
Short-Term Effects of Lead Exposure
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach discomfort
- Mood swings
- Cognitive impairments, such as memory and concentration problems
Long-Term Effects of Lead Poisoning
- Developmental delays and learning disabilities in children
- Cognitive decline in adults
- Kidney and liver damage
- Cardiovascular problems
- Fertility issues
Note: Children exposed to lead can experience irreversible damage, including decreased IQ, attention deficits, and behavioral problems.
How Long Does It Take to Get Sick From Lead Paint?
The time it takes to experience symptoms from lead exposure varies based on the level and duration of exposure.
Acute Exposure
Acute lead poisoning can occur within hours or days if you’re exposed to large amounts of lead in a short period. This might happen during extensive renovations where lead dust is generated in significant amounts. In these cases, immediate symptoms like headaches, abdominal pain, and irritability may appear quickly.
Chronic Exposure
Chronic exposure, the most common type of lead poisoning, develops over time. This could be from consistent exposure to lead dust from deteriorating paint. It might take months or even years before noticeable symptoms emerge.
Unfortunately, by the time symptoms show up, the damage (especially in children) may already be severe and irreversible.
How to Detect Lead-Based Paint
So, how can you tell if the paint in your home contains lead? Here are a few methods to consider:
Check the Age of the Building
The use of lead-based paint was banned in the U.S. in 1978. If your home was built before then, there’s a higher chance that lead-based paint may be present.
While 48% of countries today have legally binding controls on producing, importing, selling and using lead paints, it doesn’t mean your modern home is safe from lead. If you suspect lead-based paint, it’s wise to take action.
Visual Clues
Lead-based paint often shows signs of deterioration:
- Chipping or Peeling Paint: Lead-based paint tends to crack, peel, and form scales, particularly on older wooden surfaces.
- Dust or Paint Chips: If paint is deteriorating, lead particles can accumulate as dust, especially near windows, door frames, or stairs.
Lead Test Kits
These are available at hardware stores and can be a quick way to check for lead. The kits usually come with swabs that change color when lead is detected. While lead paint detection kits are convenient, they may not always be fully accurate, especially on glossy or varnished surfaces.
Certified Lead Inspection
If you suspect lead-based paint, it’s best to consult with a certified lead inspector or risk assessor. Professional inspectors are trained to assess the risk and provide you with accurate data and remediation plans. They will use professional tools and techniques to test for lead in various parts of your home, including paint, dust, and soil.
How to Test for Lead Paint
There are several methods available for testing lead paint, ranging from DIY kits to professional inspections.
1. DIY Lead Paint Test Kits
These kits are available at hardware stores and are relatively easy to use. They typically involve swabbing the surface with a chemical solution that changes color if lead is present. While convenient, these kits may not be as accurate as professional testing and are best for initial screening.
2. X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Testing
This is a more accurate method and is typically performed by certified professionals. XRF testing uses a handheld device that detects lead by measuring the energy released when the paint is exposed to X-rays. This method can test multiple layers of paint without damaging surfaces.
3. Lab Testing
Another highly accurate method is to send a paint chip sample to a laboratory for testing. You must carefully scrape small sections of paint from the surface to avoid releasing harmful dust. While this method is very reliable, it can be more costly than home tests.
How to Remove Lead Paint
If testing confirms the presence of lead paint in your home, you should prioritize removal or encapsulation. However, lead paint removal is not a simple DIY project and can be hazardous if not done correctly.
Removing lead-based paint is a hazardous job that should be handled by professionals due to the health risks associated with lead exposure. Here are the most common methods they might use:
- Wet scraping: This involves wetting the surface with a special solution to minimize dust and then using a scraper to remove the paint.
- Sanding with a HEPA vacuum: This method requires a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture the lead dust during sanding.
- Chemical stripping: Certain chemicals can be applied to dissolve the paint, which is then scraped off. This method is slower but minimizes dust.
Can You Paint Over Lead Paint?
Yes, you can paint over lead paint, but it’s not a permanent solution. This method is known as encapsulation. It involves applying a special sealant over the lead paint, trapping the harmful material underneath.
While it’s a safer and more affordable option than removal, it’s only a temporary fix. Over time, the paint can crack, allowing the lead to resurface. If you choose encapsulation, it’s important to regularly monitor the surface for any damage or wear.
FAQs
Can I remove lead paint myself?
While it’s technically possible to remove lead paint yourself, it’s risky. DIY removal can easily spread lead dust, putting you and your family at risk. It’s always best to hire a certified lead paint removal professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
What is the fastest way to strip lead paint?
Using a chemical stripper followed by a HEPA vacuum is the fastest and safest method for removing lead paint. Avoid using heat guns or dry sanding, as they can create harmful lead dust.
Does lead paint crack?
Yes, lead paint often cracks and peels in a distinctive pattern called “alligatoring,” where the paint forms small, scaly patches. This is a telltale sign that lead paint might be present.
Call The Professionals
Lead paint isn’t something to take lightly, especially if you have young children or pregnant women in the home. While there are DIY options for testing and removal, the safest route is always to hire a certified professional. Not only do they have the proper equipment, but they also know how to contain and dispose of the hazardous material properly.
Lead paint removal can be a complex and dangerous job. It’s always worth investing in your family’s health and safety by calling in the pros to get the job done right. If you suspect your home contains lead-based paint, don’t wait—contact us today to protect your loved ones.
