If you live in an older home, chances are it contains lead-based paint. Though once a common paint additive, lead is now considered a significant health hazard. In this blog post, we’ll go over what lead-based paint is, why it’s dangerous, how it affects home inspections, and most importantly, how to remove lead-based paint from your home safely.
What Is Lead-Based Paint?
Lead-based paint contains high levels of lead, a toxic heavy metal. It was widely used in homes built before 1978 because it was durable and had vibrant colors. However, due to growing health concerns, it was banned for residential use in the United States in 1978. Despite the ban, many older homes still contain remnants of lead-based paint, posing a risk to residents.
Why Is Lead-Based Paint Dangerous?
Lead is harmful, especially to young children and pregnant women. When lead-based paint deteriorates, it releases lead dust or chips, which can be inhaled or ingested. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead exposure can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, behavioral issues, and physical symptoms such as stomach pain and headaches. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, coma, or even death. This is why it’s critical that you remove lead-based paint from your home.
How Does Lead-Based Paint Affect Home Inspections?
During a home inspection, an inspector will examine areas that might contain lead-based paint, particularly in older homes. They check for signs of paint deterioration, such as peeling, chipping, or flaking, as these could indicate potential lead exposure risks. Inspectors may recommend additional testing by a certified lead professional to determine the extent of contamination.
How to Remove Lead-Based Paint
Getting rid of lead-based paint requires caution and specialized expertise. Here’s what that typically entails.
- Hire Certified Professionals: Removing lead-based paint is NOT a DIY project. Certified lead professionals have the equipment, training, and safety protocols to manage lead safely. They use specialized techniques to minimize lead dust and contamination.
- Seal Off Affected Areas: These professionals will seal off the areas where lead-based paint is being removed. This helps contain lead dust, preventing it from spreading to other parts of your home.
- Disposal of Lead-Contaminated Waste: Lead professionals will dispose of lead-contaminated waste in accordance with local regulations, ensuring it doesn’t pose any environmental or public health risk.
- Test for Lead Residue: After removal, they’ll test the area for any residual lead dust before giving the ‘all clear’ for you to occupy the space again.
Getting rid of lead-based paint and other harmful substances, like asbestos and radon, is essential for harnessing a safe living environment. Not only that, but federal law requires homebuyers and renters be properly notified of the presence of lead before signing contracts/leases.
If you suspect lead-based paint in your home or a house you’re looking to buy, be sure to book an inspection with The Homeinex Corp. With more than 30 years in the field, our experienced inspectors have seen it all and will put your home buying/owning worries to rest.