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Health & Fitness

Why You Should Hire a Lead-Safe Certified Firm to Paint Your Mid-Century Home?

Although lead paint has been banned since 1978, the CDC estimates that it’s still in the walls of an estimated 24 million houses. There are plenty of older buildings in Alexandria area, and many homeowners have become lax about controlling lead poisoning during painting or renovation projects. However, it’s worthwhile to shop around for a professional painter if you’re thinking about renovations, because:

 

It’s the Law.

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The EPA issued a ruling in 2010 requiring homeowners to use a Lead-Safe Certified Contractor for any painting or renovations. Contractors must pass a specialized course in order to obtain this certification, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to limit lead exposure and prevent the release of lead particles.

 

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Lead Has Significant Health Risks.

One of the biggest hazards of lead exposure is that it’s so difficult to spot. The short-term symptoms of lead exposure can easily be confused with the flu, but its long-term effects include neurological damage, kidney damage, impaired muscle coordination, and behavioral problems. Children who are exposed to lead can develop lifelong disabilities and learning impairments. Health effects can occur with as little as 10 micrograms per deciliter—the equivalent of about 1/100,000th of a sugar cube in a half-cup of water.

 

Uncertified and DIY Techniques Don’t Cut It.

Traditional drywall repair and paint removal techniques not only fail to control lead exposure, they actively increase lead particle levels. Sanding in commonly used to score the surface paint and provide better adhesion for a new coat, and many professional; painters use torches to remove old paint—the flames are hot enough to evaporate the lead, which turns back into a fine dust as it cools.

 

These are just a few of the reasons you should stick with a certified professional painter. Williams Professional Painting is a licensed, bonded, and insured painting contractor based in Alexandria, VA. Visit us online to learn more about our residential painting services and call (703) 768-8143 today to receive an estimate.

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