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>

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Q: Why is lead paint toxic?

• <div><p>Lead toxicity comes from inhaling lead or consuming it. Before the 1980s, when the government banned lead from consumer use, it could be found in paint, plumbing, pipes, ceramics, and even gasoline. Lead paint is toxic for the same reason lead itself is toxic, which is why lead poisoning from paint presents the same as lead poisoning from water or food sources, with a slight increase in respiratory symptoms vs. digestive symptoms. Lead paint is most dangerous when it&rsquo;s old and peeling, cracking, or otherwise disturbed. This increases the concentration in the air and, therefore, in breathable air. </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>

Q: Can you sell a house with lead paint?

• <div><p>You can sell a house with lead paint, but there are several requirements. If you are aware that lead paint exists anywhere in the home, you must disclose that to potential buyers. Required home inspections will often uncover lead paint, especially for older houses where lead paint may still be a problem. If you have taken steps to encapsulate lead, you should provide buyers with full documentation of the project so it won&rsquo;t cause any problems later on.</p></div>

Q: What is the acceptable amount of lead in drinking water?

• <div><p>According to the EPA, there is no safe level of lead in the blood, and so the maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) for lead in water is zero. Even at low levels, lead is harmful to human health. It can also remain in the body and build up over time with repeated exposure.</p></div>

Q: Can I test for lead myself?

• <div><p>DIY lead testing kits are available, but they often lack the accuracy and reliability of professional services. Professional testing is recommended for more accurate results, as properly certified testers can provide a thorough analysis, clear recommendations, and the necessary legal documentation if remediation is required.</p></div>

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

*The Angi rating for Lead Testing And Removal companies in Opelika, 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 Opelika, 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 February 20, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
Daniel Miller responded quickly to my request for an estimate, and he was able to point out two dead trees that might be dangerous to our house. He gave me a significantly lower estimate than two o other contractors. He and his crew came this morning and cut down the trees expeditiously without...
Millco tree surgeons
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Reviewed in February 2025
They did a great job in a timely manner. We needed the entire floor in our home replaced, new LVP, removed an old sink and cabinet. Reinstalled new cabinets, sink, flooring, and painted. Affordable and the crew was very professional. The owner Nathan stayed on top of everything and provided us...
Dazzlenique Cleaning
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Reviewed in September 2024
Donnie with Woodland Tree Service did a great job removing a dead pine tree in our yard. He responded quickly and worked us into his schedule to get the tree removed in less than two days. Would highly recommend them to anyone.
Woodland Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2024
Not going to remove this tree. I’m going to repair my sprinkler system and resod. Thank you for your quick response.
Strategic Land Management LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
Professional service all around. They clearly focus on safety and care for your property. They removed a large oak tree and itâ s stump. They cleaned up the yard well too. Without reservation, I recommend this company.
Carr Land Management
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Reviewed in August 2023
Professional, affordable, and reliable tree removal in the Lee County area. Difficult tree removals were done with safety in mind. Scheduling and punctuality were added perks of hiring Donald tree service. I couldnâ t be more satisfied with the professionalism and expertise of this crew. All of...
Donald Tree Service LLC
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Reviewed in November 2022
Richard and his team were true professionals in a time when that seems to be a thing of the past. They were prompt, and as their name says, dependable. The quality of their work was excellent, and they suggested several ideas that reduced the overall cost of my project. They completed the job...
Dependable Drywall and Tile
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Reviewed in March 2022
We hired them to evaluate and fix some subsidence on our property, and they did a phenomenal job digging out the hole, filling it, and grading the surface. They handled the job quickly and professionally.
Oak Hill Farms Landscaping
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Reviewed in January 2022
Great! I found Jeff’s inspection report to be quite thorough. I was purchasing an old home and wanted to know what I might be getting myself into. The house was inspected from roof to crawl space and wall to wall, complete with marked up photos. I definitely would hire again and will recommend.
KGM Home Inspections
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Reviewed in November 2021
Estate Masters did a wonderful job cleaning up and removing over 25 large pine trees from our property. Our expectations were exceeded when we returned home that evening to find the owner pressure washing our driveway to clean off the mud that would have been tracked into our garage. Thank you!
Estate Masters
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Find Lead testing and removal specialists in Opelika

Tri-state Abatement, Inc.

5.0(

)

Toxic Lead - Testing

Serving Opelika, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Everything went great. They were very professional and they did everything I wanted done, in the time I wanted it done in. I would recommend this company."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Global Xtreme Services

5.0(

)

Toxic Lead - AbatementToxic Lead - Testing

Serving Opelika, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They were amazing company. In and out they were extremely fast. They were excellent and on time."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Tri-State General Contractors and Restoration, LLC

New to Angi

Toxic Lead - AbatementToxic Lead - Testing

Serving Opelika, AL and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Tri-State General Contracting & Restoration, LLC is a company that remodels and/or restores the property of home-owners and businesses. We are proud to say that we embody the characteristics needed by home-owners and businesses to quickly recover from damages to their property and/or possessions. We have always enjoyed helping people, so in 1989 we decided to start our own business in Columbus, Georgia. We hope you enjoy your time on our site, and we look forward to working with you!

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Lead Testing and Removal questions, answered by experts

Lead toxicity comes from inhaling lead or consuming it. Before the 1980s, when the government banned lead from consumer use, it could be found in paint, plumbing, pipes, ceramics, and even gasoline. Lead paint is toxic for the same reason lead itself is toxic, which is why lead poisoning from paint presents the same as lead poisoning from water or food sources, with a slight increase in respiratory symptoms vs. digestive symptoms. Lead paint is most dangerous when it’s old and peeling, cracking, or otherwise disturbed. This increases the concentration in the air and, therefore, in breathable air.

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.

You can sell a house with lead paint, but there are several requirements. If you are aware that lead paint exists anywhere in the home, you must disclose that to potential buyers. Required home inspections will often uncover lead paint, especially for older houses where lead paint may still be a problem. If you have taken steps to encapsulate lead, you should provide buyers with full documentation of the project so it won’t cause any problems later on.

According to the EPA, there is no safe level of lead in the blood, and so the maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) for lead in water is zero. Even at low levels, lead is harmful to human health. It can also remain in the body and build up over time with repeated exposure.

DIY lead testing kits are available, but they often lack the accuracy and reliability of professional services. Professional testing is recommended for more accurate results, as properly certified testers can provide a thorough analysis, clear recommendations, and the necessary legal documentation if remediation is required.

The Opelika, 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.

See all articles

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Who Do I Call to Remove Lead Pipes?
Confused about who to call to remove lead pipes? We've rounded up a few options for the safest removal by trained professionals.