Living in or Buying an Older Home? Here's What You Need to Know About Lead Exposure

Living in or Buying an Older Home? Here's What You Need to Know About Lead Exposure

Older homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, often contain materials that pose a hidden risk to health. Lead, once commonly used in paint, plumbing systems, and other household materials, remains a serious concern for homeowners. Without proper testing and precautions, lead exposure can lead to long-term health problems, especially for children and vulnerable individuals.

The Legacy of Lead in Older Homes
Many homes built before modern safety regulations may contain lead in several areas:

  • Lead-Based Paint: Widely used for its durability, lead paint was banned in many countries in the late 1970s. Your home probably contains lead-based paint if it was built before 1960. Homes built before this time may also have lead-based paint under newer layers of paint. If built between 1960 and 1990, the exterior may contain lead-based paint. The paint on interior surfaces may also contain lead in smaller amounts that could still be harmful, especially to young children.
  • Plumbing Systems: Older plumbing systems may include lead pipes, solder, or fixtures, which can leach lead into drinking water, especially if the pipes corrode.
  • Soil Contamination: Lead from exterior paint or nearby industrial activities may have seeped into the soil around older properties, posing a risk for children playing outside or for home gardening.

What Should You Do When Your Home Has Lead Paint?

  • Avoid Disturbing the Paint: Peeling, chipping, or sanding can release harmful lead dust into the air.
  • Seal or Cover Deteriorating Paint: Use a lead-safe primer or encapsulant to contain the hazard temporarily.
  • Hire Certified Professionals: Consider hiring a certified lead abatement professional to safely remove or remediate the lead paint.
  • Maintain Cleanliness: Use a damp cloth to wipe surfaces and a HEPA vacuum to reduce lead dust in the home.
  • Protect Children and Pets: Keep them away from areas with deteriorating paint and test surrounding soil or surfaces for contamination.
  • Plan Renovations Carefully: Always consult with certified professionals during renovations to handle lead paint properly and prevent the spread of contamination.

By addressing lead hazards in your home, you can create a safer environment for your family and avoid long-term health issues.

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