Is ther any way to identify lead based paint?
Question:I'm wanting to repaint some old windows with old paint on them and I was just wondering.
Answers:
Just about any paint store will sell you a test swab kit that you merely have to squeeze at 2 points on the tube. This mixes chemicals that you dab on tehe paint. If it turns pink or red it has lead in it. The kits are about $4.00 each.
You need to make sure to get to the lower coats of paint so you are testing all of it. Scrape or cut a small area to get to the lower paint and test it. THe kits give you 2 swabs and if you squeeze out a drop without touchiing the tip on the paint you should be able to test with about 7-10 drops in differnt areas with each of the 2 tubes.
If it is lead you need to use care in prep, sanding, priming and painting. Good luck to you .
I believe there are lead testing kits available at Home Depot and other such stores.
If it is older than 1975, it may be lead based paint. If it is newer than 1975, it should not be not lead based paint. Take a couple of sample chips to your county health department. They can do the necessary testing and let you know for sure.
Just paint over it if it is not peeling. Then it is no longer considerd a hazzard.
More Related Questions & Answers...