Lead-Based Paint in the Home

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Identifying Lead in the Home
To identify the presence of lead-based paint in the home, it is recommended that painted surfaces be evaluated with an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) machine. The XRF is a portable measuring device that can be used on an unlimited number of surfaces and provide results on-site. These qualities make using the XRF the most thorough, non-invasive testing method available. It takes a qualified operator between two and four hours to complete an evaluation of a house.

Other types of tests involve chemical or laboratory analysis of painted surfaces, paint chips or dust.  Laboratory analysis of wipe samples of dust is used to determine the presence of lead dust.  A tester uses a cloth pad to dust a predetermined area of the floor or windowsill and the sample is then analyzed in a laboratory for the presence of lead.  Chemical testing of painted surfaces by performing a chemical spot test or swipe test are used to determine the presence of lead in the surface paint.  The chemicals used will produce a change in color to indicate the presence of lead.  Since there are several concerns and limitations to chemical testing, including the toxicity of the chemicals and low accuracy, this method is not recommended. Finally, paint chips can be analyzed under an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer to determine if the paint contains lead. A paint sample is taken from a painted surface and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Though this analysis is more accurate, this method is generally expensive and used to confirm XRF test results.

Dealing with Lead Paint in the Home
Generally, if no children live in the home and the paint is in good condition (no flaking, peeling or lead dust), the health risk associated with lead paint is considered minimal. No action is generally required in this situation.  However, if children live in a home or the paint is releasing lead dust or paint chips, a health risk exists and some action to reduce exposure should occur.  Repairing damaged surfaces and cleaning contaminated areas is recommended for removing the immediate health risk.  More permanent solutions such as removal and encapsulation should also be performed to reduce the continued health risk.

Complete removal of the lead paint is the most desirable solution, but is also expensive and impractical in some cases.  A popular alternative is a partial removal. Partial removal involves the removal of lead paint from areas most likely to cause a hazard. These surfaces include chewable surfaces, such as windowsills or bookshelves, that a child may chew, all surfaces four feet from floor level and surfaces subject to friction (door jambs and window sashes).  Removal costs can range from $3000 for partial removal to $30,000 for complete lead removal.

Lead-based paint in good condition can be treated with a special epoxy-based encapsulant paint that will help contain the lead dust. Though this method is considerably less expensive than removal, it does not prevent the lead paint from becoming a hazard in the future.  Encapsulation is best used in conjunction with a partial removal.

Please note that several state and local authorities presently regulate the abatement industry and may mandate certain methods for dealing with lead paint. Always ensure that the abatement performed complies with state and county codes.

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