What advice do you have for doing renovations in an old house without stirring up any lingering lead paint?
Adam, in Portland
Hi Adam,
Before I get to your question, let me first give you some general information about lead based paint. If your home was built prior to 1978 (the year lead paint was canned) chances are better than not that it contains lead paint. In addition to older homes, you also want to be mindful that old furniture (built-in or free standing) and toys could contain lead based paint as well.
I have a system for dealing with lead based paint that I refer to as the three C’s: Containment, construction and clean-up.
Containment: Remove all furniture, clothes, etc. from the work area. For any items that cannot be removed, be sure to cover them with six mil poly plastic sheeting (once covered be sure to seal). Turn off heating and air conditioning systems (weather permitting). Close and cover your registers to prevent lead dust from settling in your duct work. If you have a window unit air conditioner be sure to seal it off and then uncover when done. Cover all wall openings with six mil poly sheeting. Before starting any work, be sure to cover the entire floor area. Be sure to designate one set of clothing and shoes to wear when working in an affected area. Changing your clothing and foot ware when leaving the site will reduce the chances of spreading lead dust.
Construction: When removing plaster that has been coated with lead base paint be sure to spray the plaster with water before removing (the water will reduce the amount of lead dust — be sure all electricity to the area is shut off while using water). By removing the plaster separately, you will be able to separate it from the wood lath and any wood framing. If you are removing windows, doors or trim that has been coated with lead base paint be sure to wrap it with six mil poly plastic sheeting once it has been removed (be sure to seal the sheeting). Never burn window and door frames or trim pieces that are coated with lead base paint.
Clean-up: Do not use your household vacuum cleaner — its filter is not designed to retain lead dust. You will want to use a High Efficiency Particulate Air filter vacuum. They can be purchased locally and can sometimes be rented. To clean your walls, radiators and woodwork, use a mixture of TSP trisodium phosphate and water.
Always be sure to use and wear the necessary safety equipment and clothing.
Kaile Warren of Windham is CEO/founder of the national handyman franchise Rent-A-Husband. Kaile is also a national home improvement expert for the CBS Early Show, HGTV and Parade Magazine and appears locally on WCSH’s 207. When not on the road or working he spends his time teaching his white shepherd, Maintenance, how-to ... Send your questions for Kaile to editor@themaineswitch.com.