Lead: Why it Matters

Lead has been present in paints since the 4th century BCE. It provided a richer color, improved the longevity of the paint and resisted moisture. The explosion of paints in the United States in the early 20th century lead to numerous health issues for humans. Most notably in pregnant women or children under the age of 5. Ingesting lead contaminated dust/paint chips can cause irreversible cognitive and behavioral issues in young children.

I am a certified Lead renovator through the state and EPA. Crispin Sash & Window Restoration has completed the application process and waiting for the Bureaucratic wheel to churn out the firms licensure through the same State/Governmental channels. The certificate should be in my possession by 6/25/26.

My process and the process required by the state/EPA for the contamination of lead dust and paint chips involves a multi faceted approach. The rules require I use plastic to cover 6 feet of floor to trap lead particulate and dust. Often time with the wind blowing through the window this is impractical so I typically cover the whole floor. move I will remove furniture or other items from the room, if possible, and if it is too impractical I cover those items in plastic. In regards to lead particulate/dust that falls outside, I am required by the state/EPA to put down a plastic covering of 10 feet outside the window. Again, this is impractical and I cover the whole exterior of the window in plastic to trap all particulate.

The clean up process is thorough. The plastic from the floor and window is rolled up and taped appropriately to be disposed. Any chips remaining are vacuumed with my HEPA filtered shop vac. Then, I follow the EPA required cleaning test: wiping down areas with lead residue and ensure the area is clear of lead particulate/dust.