Remodeling the Older Home

Do you know if your home contains lead? About 75% of homes built before 1978 contain some lead-based paint. The older the home, the more likely it is to contain lead-based paint. You should assume that any home built before 1978 contains some lead.

Lead poisoning is a concern for both children and adults - breathing or eating anything that contains too much lead can cause serious health problems. Young children suffering from lead poisoning can experience learning, behavior and health problems. Adults exposed to too much lead can suffer from high blood pressure, kidney damage, and fertility problems. The good news is that lead poisoning is preventable. You can protect yourself and your family from lead by following the appropriate remodeling safety procedures.

Lead Paint Testing - Before doing any work on an older home, you may want to test the paint to see if there is lead there so you can protect yourself and your family.

Carpet Removal - Carpeting can be contaminated with lead during remodeling or repair work. Find out how to remove it safely and reduce your family's exposure to lead.

Exterior Lead Paint Removal - Lead paint was used on exterior surfaces because it stood up to weather and sunlight. Prevent lead exposure by following these simple work practices.

Interior Lead Paint Removal - Learn how to safely remove lead-based paint from the interior of your home.

Replacing Doors, Windows and Trim - It may be easier and faster to replace an entire building component rather than remove the paint from it. Find out how to accomplish this safely on this page.

Lead Contaminated Soil - Older homes may shed lead paint chips into the soil around the foundation of the house. Clean up soil safely by following the information on this page.

Lead Waste Clean-up and Disposal - After all the work is done, this is the most important step. Learn how to properly clean-up and what to do with the project waste.

Healthy Homes Minnesota