things you should know about lead paint

There has been a lot of information and controversy about lead over the past several years, and the harmful effects it can have, particularly on our children.

Consider this answer to the question of “Why should you be concerned about lead” from the Environmental Protection Agency’s website…

“Lead is a toxic metal that was used for many years in products found in and around our homes. Lead also can be emitted into the air from industrial sources and leaded aviation gasoline, and lead can enter drinking water from plumbing materials. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk.”

One of the most common sources of lead, according to the site, is deteriorating lead-based paint. Houses built before 1978 are most likely to contain this type of paint, and it can be very dangerous, particularly to young children.
Peeling, chipping, chalking, or cracking lead-based paint is a hazard and needs immediate attention.  Lead-based paint chips may also be a hazard when found on surfaces that children can chew or that get a lot of wear-and-tear. These areas include: windows and window sills, doors and door frames, stairs, railings, banisters, porches and fences.

The federal government banned the use of lead-based paint in homes in 1978.  Beginning April 22, 2010, federal law also requires that contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb more than six square feet of paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and trained to follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

You can rest assured that our professionals at Custom Coatings are fully certified and trained in the proper procedures for dealing with lead-based paint in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Just give us a call at 828.326.0953, and we’ll be happy to set up an appointment for one of our experts to come to your home, assess your needs and provide a free estimate with a tailored solution to help you ensure a lead free environment for you and your family.

For more information, visit the EPA website at  http://www.epa.gov/lead.