Why Is Lead Paint a Concern During Renovations?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Health Risks of Lead Dust
Lead dust from old paint can enter your body when you breathe it in or swallow it. Children are most vulnerable because their growing bodies absorb lead more easily, and even low levels can affect brain development, behavior, and learning. For adults, repeated exposure may raise blood pressure and cause kidney or reproductive issues.
Where Lead Paint Hides
Homes built before 1978 are more likely to have lead-based paint, but the risk is highest in houses from before 1960. The paint can be on walls, trim, windows, doors, and even on surfaces like stairs or porches. Layers of newer paint may cover it, but sanding or cutting through those layers can expose it.
Safe Renovation Practices
If you suspect lead paint, avoid dry sanding, open-flame burning, or using heat guns at high temperatures, as these create large amounts of dust and fumes. Use wet sanding or a HEPA vacuum to capture dust, and keep the work area sealed off from the rest of your home with plastic sheeting and tape.
Wear protective gear like a respirator with a HEPA filter, not just a dust mask, and change clothes before leaving the work area. Clean up thoroughly with wet mopping and a HEPA vacuum, not a regular vacuum that can blow dust into the air. Dispose of any debris and contaminated clothing properly.
Cleaning Up Lead Dust
After renovation work, lead dust can settle on floors, windowsills, and furniture. Use a damp cloth or mop to wipe surfaces, and rinse the cloth frequently in clean water. Avoid sweeping with a dry broom, which just spreads the dust around. Pay special attention to areas where children crawl or play.
Wash your hands and your children's hands often, especially before eating or sleeping. Launder work clothes separately from the rest of your family's clothing. If you have young children, keep them out of the renovation area until the cleanup is complete and you have done a final wet wipe of all surfaces.
When to Call the Pros
If your renovation involves large areas of peeling lead paint, or if you are unsure how to contain the dust, consider hiring professionals who specialize in lead-safe renovation. They have the right equipment and training to contain and clean up lead dust properly. This is especially important if you have children or a pregnant woman in the home.
Before any renovation, find out if your home was built before 1978. If it was, assume lead paint is present and plan accordingly. You can also have your home tested for lead by a qualified professional, but even without a test, you can take precautions to minimize dust and exposure. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered if you need to file a claim.
Need help right now?
Call (480) 898-4279 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Can I just paint over lead paint?
Painting over lead paint can seal it temporarily, but it does not remove the hazard. If the paint is in good condition, a new coat may be enough, but if it is peeling or chipping, you need to address the underlying lead before painting.
How do I test for lead paint?
You can buy a home test kit at most hardware stores, but these can give false results. For a definitive answer, hire a professional to take samples and have them analyzed in a lab. This is more accurate and gives you peace of mind before you start work.
Is lead paint still used today?
Lead paint was banned for residential use in 1978, so any paint sold today does not contain lead. However, older homes may still have lead paint under newer layers, so the risk remains for older properties.