Lead Testing

REAL VIDEO Click on the image above to see a video clip explaining how to check for lead-based paint.

If your home was built before 1978, it could contain lead-based paint that might pose a health threat to you and your family.

When intact, lead paint does is not a serious problem, but old peeling paint could be eaten by a small child or family pet. Sanding old paint could release dangerous lead dust into the air, so before starting any home restoration or refinishing project, check to see whether you may be coming in contact with lead-based paint. (See video instructions at right.)

If lead paint is detected, you have two options:

• Hire a licensed specialist to remove the lead paint.
• Using the proper safety equipment (safety glasses and a respirator), chip off the loose paint then cover the surace with a special encapsulating paint that will lock the lead paint in and keep it from becoming a danger in your home.

Resources
lead paint Web site - EPA
Click here for more information from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Pollution Protection and Toxics.
Also in this Episode

Country at Home : Episode CAH-505
•	Savannah Style
•	Country Cottage
•	Lead Testing
•	Native American Dolls