While remodeling or even renovating can be a very exciting time for homeowners, they can sometimes come with potential hazards that homeowners and contractors should be aware of. One of the biggest risks, particularly in older homes or commercial properties, is the possibility of coming across lead-based paint. When it happens, many homeowners immediately wonder “Can you paint over lead-based paint?” It’s an incredibly common question that we hear at Home Biotesting, and we are here to offer you expert advice and ensure your health isn’t put in potential jeopardy by this dangerous and hazardous material.
What is Lead-Based Paint?
Before answering the question, “Can you just paint over lead paint?”, it’s important to understand what lead-based paint is. Introduced in the early part of the 20th century, lead was added to most paints to speed drying, enhance overall durability, resist moisture, and keep a fresher appearance for a longer time. Unfortunately, by the end of the 1970s, research had shown that there were significant health hazards associated with ingestion and inhalation of the lead residue, which led to its ban in residential settings in the US.
Risks Associated with Lead-Based Paint
Lead-based paint can be incredibly harmful if inhaled or ingested, particularly to children and pregnant women. Chronic exposure can lead to serious complications like learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and even damage to the brain and central nervous system. In many individuals with high lead exposure, there is also a marked increase in aggression or violent tendencies.
Can You Paint Over Lead-Based Paint?
When it comes down to it, yes, you can paint over lead-based paint. However, this doesn’t mean it’s an easy or straightforward process. This is actually a specialized process known as encapsulation, and it involves applying a special coating over the lead-based paint to help seal it and prevent the lead particles from becoming airborne.
While this can often be done by an experienced professional, the practice isn’t without its own set of risks and concerns. First of all, paint simply isn’t a permanent solution. Over time, the new layer of paint can and will deteriorate, leading to possible exposure to the harmful lead paint particles underneath. This makes regular inspections and maintenance critical if a homeowner chooses to encapsulate their old lead-based paint.
The Importance of Professional Testing and Abatement
Even though encapsulation may seem like an easy solution, it’s essential to remember that it’s also a temporary one. To effectively manage lead paint, professional help is crucial and this is where Home Biotesting comes in. Our team specializes in residential and commercial environmental testing, including the identification and safe abatement of lead paint.
Our experienced local professionals will use extensive knowledge and cutting-edge equipment to accurately determine if your home or business contains lead paint. If lead paint is found to be present in your building, we can offer industry-leading consultation and advice on what steps should then be taken to properly mitigate any potential hazards.
Allowing experienced professionals to handle the task of abatement not only ensures the safety of you and your loved ones but also helps protect the environment from improper lead paint disposal. Certified and licensed lead abatement professionals will be able to properly dispose of the material in accordance with all pertinent laws and regulations.
Partner With Home Biotesting For Leading Lead-Based Paint Abatement
So, can you just paint over lead paint? The short answer is yes, but it’s not the safest or most permanent solution. For the ideal solution and long-term peace of mind, reach out to Home Biotesting today to make an appointment for lead paint testing and abatement.