Get matched with top lead testing and removal specialists in Freeport, IL

When a surface that contains lead dust is disturbed, the dust can float about in the air for roughly an hour before settling again. Since you cannot see the dust, it is important always to wear protective gear when working with any materials that may contain lead paint and to keep children, pets, and others away from the area for as long as possible

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.

No. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover any kind of lead remediation, focusing instead on sudden, unpreventable events like fires and theft. Many insurance companies will specifically exclude lead paint removal, since it tends to be an expensive and unavoidable project. The exception is if the lead surface is damaged during a covered event (like a flood) and homeowners insurance pays its replacement.

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.