The 2021 lead paint safety checklist - painting over lead paint and more

Until 1978, lead-based paint was often used in both exterior and interior home paints, which we now know is a problem because lead can cause serious health problems in children and adults.

Lead paint is generally safe until it starts to deteriorate – peeling, chipping, cracking, or otherwise damaged lead paint becomes a hazard, according to information from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Surfaces that children can chew on or come in frequent contact with should never contain lead paint.

The EPA recommends that certified contractors should complete any lead paint removal project. If you’re in the greater Boston area, Spectra Painting Contractors can safely complete any lead paint removal project that you need.

If you’re concerned about lead-based paint in your home, here’s a handy checklist that breaks down what you need to know about identifying and mitigating any lead-based paint hazards.

Check your home for lead paint

• If you have an older home, regularly look around for any worn-down paint or areas that may need attention in the future. Lead paint is often used in kitchens and bathrooms as well as exterior walls, stair railings, door frames, window trim, and decorative molding. The EPA recommends hiring a certified lead inspector or a certified lead risk assessor to identify lead-based paint hazards.




• Be sure you consult a professional before you do any renovation or painting in your home if there is lead-based paint. Professionals can spot hazardous areas of lead paint, and they will let you know how high the potential risk is, according to the EPA. They can also tell you how to prevent creating toxic lead dust during the renovation process and what products will be best to use for your project.




• Be sure to have your older home inspected before selling or renting it. The seller or landlord should disclose any lead-based paint hazards in the home, according to WebMD. Inspectors can inventory all of the painted surfaces in your home and test them for the presence of lead.

What to do immediately if you have lead-based paint

• WebMD recommends immediately cleaning up any paint chips and dusting regularly. You can also use a sponge, mop, or paper towel with warm water to thoroughly clean the surface.
• If you’re a renter, tell your landlord about the results of the lead paint test.

Consider your options for removing the lead paint hazard

• Replace old doors and windows: It may be time to replace older doors and windows in your home. There are plenty of great lead-free options on the market, and a trained professional can get the project done quickly and safely.




• Remove old paint: Professionals can use wet sanding methods to remove the layer of lead paint. They may also recommend replacing window sills and other areas that receive regular friction to avoid creating future lead paint chips. If you’re in the greater Boston area, Spectra Painting Contractors can help. We are certified in lead abatement and follow all EPA standards.




• Cover surfaces with hard materials: You can opt to cover lead-based paint with paneling, stone masonry, or other hard, non-porous materials. Covering the lead paint will prevent you and your family from coming in direct contact with lead paint chips and dust.




• Use an encapsulate over lead-based paint: An encapsulant is a material you apply over lead-based paint that seals the surface so it doesn’t chip or creates dust, according to information from the New York State Health Department. There are several types of encapsulants to choose from, so it’s best to consult a professional before purchasing anything. Encapsulants are best for surfaces that don’t receive a lot of wear or friction – so they’re ideal for walls and ceilings.

FAQ: Can you paint over lead paint? 

You should not be too quick to trust conventional paint to resolve your lead paint issue, according to the New York Health Department. The best way to deal with a lead paint hazard is to hire professionals to remove the paint, or to have professionals apply an encapsulant before repainting the surface.

If the lead-based paint is still in good condition – that means no chipping or flaking – you may be able to safely paint over the lead paint, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

Spectra Painting Contractors recommends first isolating the area where you’ll be working by closing any vents, removing furniture, and covering the ground to be sure lead paint chips are not tracked through your property.

Before painting, professionals will use a paint primer before the fresh coat of paint goes on. You will need to repaint the area every four to 10 years to be sure the lead paint remains covered, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

Spectra Painting Contractors is certified in lead abatement and experienced in all types of lead paint removal techniques. Contact us for any residential or commercial lead paint removal project today!

For more information, you can also contact the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD.