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: What is a lead paint inspection?

• <div><p>A lead paint inspection is a thorough examination and assessment of a building or structure to determine the presence of lead-based paint. Lead-based paint was commonly used in buildings before 1978 when its health hazards were fully understood. Lead is toxic and can pose health risks, particularly to young children and pregnant women. Getting a lead paint inspection means <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/find-contractor-lead-paint-removal.htm">finding a lead paint inspector</a> to examine the surfaces of the building&mdash;such as walls, ceilings, doors, windows, and other painted areas&mdash;and identify the presence of lead-based paint.</p></div>

Q: Why is lead removal necessary for older homes?

• <div><p>Lead removal is crucial in older homes to eliminate risks of lead poisoning, which can severely affect health, particularly in children, by impacting development and cognitive functions.</p></div>

Q: What steps should be taken if lead is found in a property?

• <div><p>If lead is detected in a property, steps should include arranging for professional removal or containment, notifying all occupants, and implementing interim safety measures to reduce exposure.</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: How do I prepare for lead testing?

• <div><p>Avoid disturbing suspected lead-containing materials and follow professional guidance on sample collection.</p></div>

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Lead Testing and Removal questions, answered by experts

A lead paint inspection is a thorough examination and assessment of a building or structure to determine the presence of lead-based paint. Lead-based paint was commonly used in buildings before 1978 when its health hazards were fully understood. Lead is toxic and can pose health risks, particularly to young children and pregnant women. Getting a lead paint inspection means finding a lead paint inspector to examine the surfaces of the building—such as walls, ceilings, doors, windows, and other painted areas—and identify the presence of lead-based paint.

Lead removal is crucial in older homes to eliminate risks of lead poisoning, which can severely affect health, particularly in children, by impacting development and cognitive functions.

If lead is detected in a property, steps should include arranging for professional removal or containment, notifying all occupants, and implementing interim safety measures to reduce exposure.

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.

Avoid disturbing suspected lead-containing materials and follow professional guidance on sample collection.

The Diberville, MS homeowners’ guide to lead testing and removal services

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