If your home was built before 1978, it most likely contains lead. Many coatings like paint, lacquer, polyurethane and stain used lead before it was outlawed in 1978.  Lead can be a huge problem, especially for children under 2. Now, we all know that lead can cause major problems in high doses, but you may be unaware that this hazardous ingredient can also be a problem in low doses. Low level lead poisoning can result in emotional problems, A.D.D. and IQ reduction.

It is important to find time to channel your energies into encapsulating the lead coatings–it can be as easy as a fresh coat of paint before the lead contaminated paint chips and peals.  If the paint is already pealing, it will need a professional remedy, which is not pressure washing. Pressure washing can actually spread the contamination. The  remediation team should be certified by the EPA for Lead Removal or have Lead RRP (Remodel, Repair and Painting) certification.

As of April 22, 2010 all painters and re modelers will be required to hold a Lead RRP Certification.  This ensures that they have gone through the EPA training and have a basic knowledge about how to reduce the spread of lead and cleaning up properly when repainting repairing, or renovating your home.

The bottom line, take time to maintain your home with things like regular touch ups and pressure washing to prevent chipping, pealing and lead contamination. These things are relatively inexpensive and can prevent bigger problems in the long run.