"Walk into almost any house built before 1978, and there's a good chance the walls, windows, or even trim are coated in lead-based paint. Back in the day, lead paint was thought of as a miracle material because it was durable, smooth, and long-lasting. Decades later, we know better, and now lead paint is considered one of the most common hidden health hazards in older homes. But lead-based paint doesn't have to stop you from buying or enjoying an older home."
"As lead paint layers begin to age, the paint can chip, crack, or release dust that no one can see, but everyone can breathe. If you're starting renovations on a historic house in Richmond, VA or looking at buying a charming craftsman home in San Francisco, there's a chance you could need a lead paint inspection. How to check if paint has lead"
Homes built before 1978 frequently contain lead-based paint that can deteriorate, producing hazardous dust and chips. Signs include peeling, chipping, chalking, or cracking paint, particularly near windows, doors, baseboards, and high-friction areas. Intact paint poses lower immediate risk, but aging surfaces warrant testing. Certified lead inspectors or risk assessors can locate and quantify lead using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or lab analysis. Some EPA-recognized DIY kits are reliable, but only a few meet EPA standards. When tests confirm lead, professional abatement or safe remediation practices reduce exposure during renovations or occupancy.
Read at Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More
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