Get matched with top lead testing and removal specialists in Hodge, LA

While not all homes built before 1978 contain lead paint, enough do, so you’ll still want to test to be on the safe side. The federal government banned lead-based paint for homes in 1978, but your state may have banned lead before that time. Around 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1977 contained lead-based paint, while 87% of homes built before 1940 contained lead-based paint.

Some of the signs that could mean your water is contaminated, such as cloudiness or bubbliness, could also be non-problems that don’t affect your water’s potability. However, if your water smells or tastes strange, it’s a good idea to stop drinking it and test it immediately. If your well water is contaminated, the best way to discover that is to test it.

While the EPA provides guidelines for homeowners to perform DIY lead paint removal, it is a risky process and generally not recommended due to serious health risks and strict regulatory requirements. The process requires precise safety precautions, such as wearing a respirator and protective eyeglasses, creating sealed exits, and using a HEPA vacuum for cleanup. To ensure the job is done safely, effectively, and in compliance with regulations, it is highly recommended to hire a professional lead abatement company. Certified professionals have the necessary training, experience, and specialized equipment (like chemical strippers and HEPA vacuums) to handle and dispose of hazardous materials safely.

Determining if your water main contains lead involves a few steps. First, check the age of your property, as homes built before the 1980s might have lead pipes. Contact your water utility company for information on your service line material. Then, you can hire a professional plumber to conduct an inspection or use a lead testing kit to analyze water from the main line.