The short answer
What Lead Paint Is
Lead paint is paint that contains lead, a heavy metal added for durability and color. Homes built before 1978 often have lead-based paint on walls, doors, windows, and trim. The federal government banned lead in house paint in that year, but older homes can still have layers of it under newer coats.
Lead paint is not dangerous when it is intact and covered. The problem starts when the paint deteriorates. Chipping, peeling, or sanding creates dust and flakes. You or your family can breathe in the dust or touch it, and then the lead enters the body.
Why Lead Is Dangerous
Lead is a neurotoxin. Once it enters the body, it can harm the brain, kidneys, and nervous system. Children are most vulnerable because their bodies absorb lead more easily and their brains are still developing. Even low levels of lead exposure can cause learning problems, lower IQ, and behavioral issues.
Pregnant women also face serious risks. Lead can pass through the placenta and affect the unborn baby, leading to premature birth or low birth weight. Adults can suffer from high blood pressure, joint pain, and memory loss. The effects are often permanent, so prevention matters.
How Lead Paint Affects Your Home
Lead paint does not just affect health; it can also affect your home's structure. When lead paint fails, it exposes the underlying wood or drywall to moisture. In a humid climate, water can seep into these areas and cause rot or mold.
Water damage can make lead paint worse. Moisture causes paint to blister and peel faster, creating more lead dust. If you have a leak or flooding, the water can spread lead dust to other parts of your home. That is why it is important to address water issues quickly.
Keep an eye on any peeling paint, especially after heavy rain. A water damage inspection can help you see if moisture is causing paint failure. The pros can assess the extent of the damage and recommend safe steps.
- Check for peeling or chipping paint on windows, doors, and baseboards
- Look for paint that has a chalky texture when touched
- Inspect areas where doors and windows rub against frames
- Notice if paint has a sweet, musty smell (lead paint can have a distinct odor)
- If you see damage, keep the area clean and avoid sweeping dry dust
- Consider testing if you have children under six years old
Safe Handling and Cleaning
If you find lead paint, do not panic. The key is to manage the risk. Keep the paint intact and cover it with a new coat of paint, but only if the surface is in good condition. For peeling areas, you may need professional help to stabilize the paint safely.
Cleaning lead dust is not like normal dust. A regular vacuum can spread the particles into the air. Use a HEPA vacuum, which traps fine particles. Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth, and wash toys and pacifiers often. Always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning.
What to Do If You Suspect Lead
The first step is to confirm whether lead paint is present. You can buy a home test kit at a hardware store, but these can be unreliable. A professional lead inspection is the safest way. The inspector will test each painted surface and give you a clear answer.
If lead paint is confirmed, do not attempt to remove it yourself. The proper response depends on the condition of the paint. If it is intact, you may simply monitor it. If it is peeling, you need a lead abatement contractor. They will follow strict safety rules to protect your family.
- Keep children and pregnant women away from peeling paint areas
- Wash children's hands and faces often, especially before eating
- Clean floors and windowsills with a damp mop or cloth
- Use only a HEPA vacuum for cleaning
- Do not use heat guns or sanders on lead paint
- If you feel unwell, see a doctor and mention possible lead exposure
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Euless and nearby communities.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can I paint over lead paint to make it safe?
Yes, you can paint over intact lead paint with a new coat of enamel or latex paint. First, clean the surface with a damp cloth and let it dry. If the paint is peeling or chipping, you need to stabilize it first. The new paint will seal the lead, but it is not a permanent fix.
How do I know if my home has lead paint?
If your home was built before 1978, it may have lead paint. A home test kit from a hardware store can give a rough idea, but it is not always accurate. The safest way is to hire a lead inspector. They will test each painted surface and give you a detailed report.
What should I do if I find peeling lead paint?
Do not scrape or sand it. That will release lead dust. Keep children and pets away from the area. You can temporarily cover it with a cloth or plastic sheeting. Then, contact a lead abatement professional to remove or encapsulate the paint safely. If you have water damage, address that first.