How to Recognize if Your House Has Lead Paint
Posted on April 15, 2020
Many homes built before 1978 were painted using lead paint. This is especially true for a lot of the older houses throughout Oregon. Even if the home has had fresh coats of paint added over the years, lead paint can still be hiding underneath those layers. If the lead paint is in good condition, it isn’t a severe health threat. However, if you’re going to renovate your house, you should be aware that lead paint exists in your home so you can take the proper precautions in ensuring your safety.
Signs of Lead Paint
When your paint starts chipping or forming a scaly pattern, that could be a sign of lead paint. You should look for signs of deterioration along the walls, windowsills, countertops, and floors. Flakes of lead paint can also accumulate on bedding, clothes, carpeting, toys, as well as in dust and soil.
How to Test for Lead Paint
Your painting or remodeling contractor can administer a test that immediately lets you know if lead is present. Only contractors with a Lead Based Paint Renovation license can conduct the test.
What to Do if Your House Has Lead Paint
Painting over damaged lead paint won’t permanently remedy your lead situation. If your home does test positive for lead paint, you can protect yourself and your family by hiring painting contractors who hold the Lead Based Paint Renovation license. This will guarantee that the proper Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) procedures are used to ensure the safety of your family and property.
In Oregon, licensed painting contractors abide by the following Steps to Lead Safe Renovation, Repair, and Painting as issued by the EPA:
Step 1: Determine if the Job Involves Lead-Based Paint
Step 2: Set It Up Safely
Step 3: Protect Yourself
Step 4: Minimize the Dust
Step 5: Leave the Work Area Clean
Step 6: Control the Waste
Step 7: Verify Work Completion with the Cleaning Verification Procedure or Clearance
At CertaPro Painters® of Salem-Eugene, we are EPA RRP Lead Certified. Your lead painting project will be handled in a safe manner that complies with regulation from the EPA. Contact us today for interior and exterior painting estimates.
