Can I paint over lead paint?

• <div><p>You can paint over lead paint, or “encapsulate” it with a special paint that includes an ingredient called an encapsulant. The EPA approves encapsulation as a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-options-do-i-have-remove-lead-paint.htm">lead paint removal method</a> as long as the paint remains undisturbed. Standard types of paint without an “encapsulant” from the big box stores or hardware stores do not meet EPA standards for remediation of lead-based paint.</p></div>

Can I test indoor air quality myself?

• <div><p>A DIY kit can lessen the sting that comes with paying for a professional assessment, but these comprehensive tests are true lifesavers. Inspectors are more likely to catch all of the pollutants and hazards in your air. Plus, you’ll still need a professional to verify and act on your DIY test results. </p><p>Some kits don’t include tests for certain air pollutants or only detect their presence, but not their levels (i.e., mold spores). If you’re willing to shell out money for a DIY kit, it’s usually better to stretch your budget slightly higher for a more detailed assessment.</p></div>

Top-rated lead testing and removal specialists.

Get matched with top lead testing and removal specialists in Buhl, AL

Q: How much does a lead paint inspection cost?

• <div><p>The average cost of a lead paint inspection is about <b>$600</b>, but it can cost as low as <b>$150</b> or as much as<b> $800</b>, depending on the size of the area, geographic location, and the inspection methods. Some of the most common lead paint inspection methods include:</p><ul><li><p>Visual inspection: $150&ndash;$400</p></li><li><p>Paint sampling: $200&ndash;$600</p></li><li><p>X-ray fluorescence (XRF): $250&ndash;$700</p></li><li><p>Risk assessment: $300&ndash;$800</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: Can you dispose of hazardous waste in a dumpster?

• <div><p>No, you can&rsquo;t place hazardous waste in a dumpster unless you specifically ordered a dumpster for hazardous waste removal. If the dumpster company finds hazardous waste that it didn&rsquo;t approve for dumping, the company will return the waste to you, and you&rsquo;ll likely face a fine for illegal dumping.</p></div>

Q: How do professionals test for other toxic materials in a home?

• <div><p>Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to detect asbestos, radon, and VOCs.</p></div>

Q: Can I paint over lead paint?

• <div><p>You can paint over lead paint, or &ldquo;encapsulate&rdquo; it with a special paint that includes an ingredient called an encapsulant. The EPA approves encapsulation as a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-options-do-i-have-remove-lead-paint.htm">lead paint removal method</a> as long as the paint remains undisturbed. Standard types of paint without an &ldquo;encapsulant&rdquo; from the big box stores or hardware stores do not meet EPA standards for remediation of lead-based paint.</p></div>

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Patrick Erb Home & Building Inspection

5.00(

)

Patrick Erb Home & Building Inspection

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Real Estate Home and Building Inspection, Lake Home Inspection, Commercial Property Inspection Buying a home or business building is a very big deal and I take it seriously. My goal and my objective is to provide as much information as possible about the home and building of interest. I will provide an objective, affordable and fast service with complementary follow up reports upon request. Call me at 205-421-5256 or 205-765-0104 to discuss the home or building of interest and schedule the inspection. North Alabama, Smith Lake, Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Cullman, Jasper, Winfield, Hamilton, Real Estate Home Inspection Alabama AL Huntsville, Florence, Russellville

"Patrick gives a very thorough inspection and seems to truly care about his clients. A++"

Timothy D on January 2022

"Patrick gives a very thorough inspection and seems to truly care about his clients. A++"

Timothy D on January 2022

Alabama Restoration & Remediation

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Alabama Restoration & Remediation

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12 years of experience

West Alabama's most trusted experts for mold remediation, building restoration, and water, smoke, fire and storm damage. Contact us now for immediate response.

Verified Reviews for Lead Testing And Removal pros in Buhl, AL

*The Angi rating for Lead Testing And Removal companies in Buhl, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Lead Testing And Removal needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Lead Testing And Removal companies in Buhl, AL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Lead Testing And Removal needs.

Last update on December 31, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
Our deck needed to be replaced. The crew was terrific. They were on time, finished the deck in one day, removed the wood from the old deck & will be returning to stain our new deck. I would most definitely work with this company again...
Rainier Construction
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Reviewed in June 2025
We've used this company for years and couldn't be happier with their service. They recently replaced our air conditioner, and just like every time before, the work was done quickly, professionally, and at a fair price. This is a hardworking, family-owned business with over 40 years of...
Townsend Heating and Cooling
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Reviewed in August 2023
Installed driveway drainage grate and drainage system. Cody and crew very professional. Completed job in stated time. Pricing competitive. Would recommend.
Ace Foundation & Recovery Specialist, LLC
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Reviewed in August 2023
Jason and Donnie were a pleasure to work with. They cleaned our gutters and downspouts.
Tammie's Cleaning & Powerwashing Service
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Reviewed in July 2023
Got the tree down quickly and efficiently.
Frierson Lawn Services
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Reviewed in May 2023
Jaxon removed rotted wood and installed new metal in place of the rotted areas, did an excellent job, was very fast and extremely easy to deal with.
J Wyatt Siding
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Reviewed in March 2021
Nick was very professional and on time. Found the clog to be in the main sewer line to my home. Cleared the drain and had everything back to normal in no time! Very profession, clean and would highly recommend!
Nick's Quality Services
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Reviewed in June 2020
Our home is on a 3+ acre lot. We are highly pleased with the work done by Jeremy and his Switchbladz crew! We’ve used Switchbladz for 3 years now, and have never been disappointed. They show up when they say they will, and the yard always looks beautiful when they leave. Driveways, etc., are...
SwitchBladez Lawn & Landscape
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Reviewed in May 2020
Jonathan and crew were prompt and professional in every way. From original quote to follow through installation, he did what he said he would do--exactly as I requested. It took only a couple of days where I had thought it might take as long as a week for a job this size. His quote included (be...
Fenceworx
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Reviewed in March 2019
Mr. Harris did a great job cutting and removing two trees in my yard. He cleaned the area well. He came when he said he would and did exactly what was contracted. I can certainly recommend him
Harris Lawn and Tree Maintenance
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Lead Testing and Removal questions, answered by experts

The average cost of a lead paint inspection is about $600, but it can cost as low as $150 or as much as $800, depending on the size of the area, geographic location, and the inspection methods. Some of the most common lead paint inspection methods include:

Visual inspection: $150–$400
Paint sampling: $200–$600
X-ray fluorescence (XRF): $250–$700
Risk assessment: $300–$800

No, you can’t place hazardous waste in a dumpster unless you specifically ordered a dumpster for hazardous waste removal. If the dumpster company finds hazardous waste that it didn’t approve for dumping, the company will return the waste to you, and you’ll likely face a fine for illegal dumping.

Professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to detect asbestos, radon, and VOCs.

You can paint over lead paint, or “encapsulate” it with a special paint that includes an ingredient called an encapsulant. The EPA approves encapsulation as a lead paint removal method as long as the paint remains undisturbed. Standard types of paint without an “encapsulant” from the big box stores or hardware stores do not meet EPA standards for remediation of lead-based paint.

A DIY kit can lessen the sting that comes with paying for a professional assessment, but these comprehensive tests are true lifesavers. Inspectors are more likely to catch all of the pollutants and hazards in your air. Plus, you’ll still need a professional to verify and act on your DIY test results.

Some kits don’t include tests for certain air pollutants or only detect their presence, but not their levels (i.e., mold spores). If you’re willing to shell out money for a DIY kit, it’s usually better to stretch your budget slightly higher for a more detailed assessment.

The Buhl, AL homeowners’ guide to lead testing and removal services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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