Before the health effects of lead paint were known, lead paint was considered one of the best means of protecting against weathering of exterior surfaces. In high quality paints, concentrations of 40-60% lead were not uncommon. Because of its' corrosion resisting qualities, lead paint was most commonly used around windows (to seal wood trim) and on railings to protect sub surfaces. Lead paint was also painted on a variety of sidings and brick walls for added protection from the elements.
% of Lead Painted Surfaces on Housing Components
Interior
Exterior
Walls/Ceiling
6%
Stair/Balconies
3%
Doors
16%
Doors
15%
Baseboards
19%
Door Trim
39%
Door Trim
23%
Siding
41%
Window
35%
Railings
50%
Radiators
60%
Windows
61%
Lead paint testing in Massachusetts is very important because most of the houses were built before 1978. Deteriorating lead paint surfaces and lead dust are attributed as the most common cause of lead poisoning.
The older a building is, the more likely that it has lead paint. 90% of pre-1940 buildings have lead paint. 80% of pre-1960, and 62% of pre-1978 buildings have lead.
Health Effects of Lead
Lead based paint is the major cause of lead poisoning in children. Eating lead paint chips is one way young children are exposed to lead. However, inhaling and ingesting lead dust from deteriorated surfaces or sanded or otherwise disturbed areas which have been coated with lead paint is the most common way people are exposed to it. Because it directly affects the Central Nervous System, lead paint, dust or chips can be especially harmful to children and pregnant mothers. Exposure to lead can cause brain damage, mental retardation, and poor muscle coordination. Lead exposure can also retard fetal development even at low levels. Taking action is especially important when infants or pregnant women are present.
Call us today to schedule an inspection at (978) 503-1765.
