In 1978, the federal government enacted a ban on lead paint for consumers, recognizing the potential hazards it presented. Many homes built before 1978 used lead paint. Exposure to this type of paint can cause many problems, though the symptoms can be subtle. They’re most likely to present in children. The signs of lead paint exposure include:

• Irritability or mood disorders.
• Abdominal pain.
• Headaches.
• Difficulty learning.

Short-term effects of lead paint exposure may include loss of appetite, weight loss, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. Long-term effects of lead paint exposure include hearing loss, seizures, premature births by pregnant women and abnormal sperm counts for men.

It is possible but unwise to try to remove lead paint yourself. Professionals know exactly what to do, whereas you may not remove all of the paint from your home or office if you attempt to do it yourself. You could also remove it improperly and spread the problem. Your safety depends on proper lead paint removal.

The federal government requires lead paint abatement contractors to gain certification and follow predetermined procedures. During abatement, contractors make the paint completely inaccessible or permanently remove it using techniques such as:

• Encapsulation: Coating the surface of the lead paint entirely to seal it
• Enclosure: Putting a new surface over the old one with lead paint
• Removal: Using liquid paint removers and paint removal tools to eliminate lead paint
• Replacement: Removing and replacing anything with lead paint, such as windows and doors

Our crews set up a containment area by installing poly sheeting, tacky mats and a negative pressure air machine. Our technicians have personal protective equipment, including fitted respirators, to keep themselves safe as they employ a HEPA filter vacuum to gather lead paint chips and dust. We keep the area sealed until everything has been removed.

The length of the project depends on how much lead paint you have to remove. It could take a few days or a few weeks. The cost of lead paint removal also depends on how much of it is present in your space.

If your home or office was built before 1978, it may have lead paint. The older the structure is, the more likely it is to have it. You will need to get a risk assessor or certified lead-based paint inspector to run tests to determine for sure whether you have lead paint and need removal service. According to federal lead regulation, property owners are responsible for disclosing lead paint presence.

• Doors and frames
• Windows and windowsills
• Banisters, railings and stairs
• Porches