Frequently Asked Questions

Lead-based paints were banned for residential use in 1978. Homes built in the U.S. before 1978 are likely to have some lead-based paint. When the paint peels and cracks, it makes lead paint chips and dust. Any surface covered with lead-based paint where the paint may wear by rubbing or friction is likely to cause lead dust including windows, doors, floors, porches, stairways, and cabinets.

Children can be exposed to lead if they chew on surfaces coated with lead-based paint, such as window sills and door edges. They can also be exposed if they eat flaking paint chips or eat or breathe in lead dust (CDC, 2022).

Lead paint friction surfaces can be removed and replace. Non-Friction areas can be encapsulated with a lead paint barrier, or enclosed.