What Should I Expect When I Schedule A Lead Paint Test?
Lead paint tests or inspections are used to either discover or rule out the existence of lead paint in a home or building. Lead paint tests are commonly performed because lead paint is a hazardous material that was used in homes & buildings across the USA until 1978, the year that it was banned. Lead paint was outlawed because it was discovered that exposure to the lead particles it contains can cause a wide range of harmful health effects in humans. In this article, we’ll talk about why lead paint inspections are necessary and let you know what you should expect when you schedule one! If you believe that your Massachusetts home contains lead paint and are looking into a professional inspection, DCM Environmental is here for you! Contact us today for a free estimate on our lead paint testing services!
Why Would My Home Need A Lead Paint Inspection?
As mentioned above, the use of lead paint in homes was banned in 1978. If your home was built before that year, there’s a good chance that lead paint is still on your walls. Even if lead paint has been painted over a countless number of times, you can still be at risk for lead exposure during renovations or if the paint begins to deteriorate. Over time, lead exposure can lead to lead poisoning, a condition that causes a wide range of symptoms, including vomiting, weakness, loss of balance, seizures, sleeping issues, lack of appetite, fatigue, memory loss, and much more. Lead poisoning is especially dangerous for children, as it can lead to physical and mental developmental problems. If you have noticed deteriorating paint or are planning a renovation and believe that there is any chance that your home contains lead paint, it’s crucial to hire a professional lead paint inspector!
What To Expect From A Professional Lead Paint Test
A professional lead paint test typically involves two separate steps: an inspection and an assessment. For the inspection portion of the test, the lead paint inspector will check the at-risk surfaces on inside and outside of your home to identify if lead paint is present using specialized equipment. Next, the inspector will provide you with a risk assessment for any lead paint that is discovered. The assessment will let you know about the lead levels and how serious the issue is. If the inspector determines that the lead paint they find is in good condition and doesn’t run the risk of being disturbed in the future, it typically does not need to be removed. However, if the inspector determines that there is lead paint that is deteriorating or is in an area that many be renovated, they’ll give you recommendations on how to proceed with the removal process.
Contact DCM Environmental Testing!
If you believe your home may contain lead paint, it's crucial to test for it as soon as possible. At DCM Environmental, we provide Massachusetts and the surrounding region with professional, unbiased testing for lead paint and other hazardous materials. Contact our team today to learn more or to schedule a consultation! Give us a call at (617) 481-5782 or fill out the contact form on our website!
