Lead Paint Inspection

Prior to the 1950s, lead was used in paint to achieve certain pigments, as well as improve drying times, durability, and moisture resistance. Lead-based paint was used for both home interiors and exteriors, and it became commonplace in the early 20th century, as production shifted to larger commercial scales. Exposure in older homes happens when lead-based paint starts to deteriorate, cracking or peeling away from the walls. When paint is intact, meaning not flaking or breaking apart, exposure risk is low for inhabitants, even children.

Deterioration of lead-based paint results in lead-contaminated dust, which may be directly ingested or inhaled, and paint chips, which may be touched or, less commonly, ingested. Exposure through direct ingestion of contaminated dust, paint chips, or even soil around a house is especially a concern for young children, who often put their hands and other objects in their mouth. Living in a house with lead-based paint can result in a chronic accumulation of heavy metal in the body.