Lead is a toxic metal that was used in many different consumer products in years past. Although leaded products are no longer being made today, they can still be found in unassuming places such as in and around older homes and buildings, in certain hobbies or jobs, or even in common household items. Because the harmful effects of lead poisoning can last a lifetime, it is important to know how to check your home for lead and what to do if your home does contain traces of the poisonous material.
Consider getting your manufactured home screened for lead if it was built before 1978 or if you live near a busy highway where leaded gas could pollute the soil, especially if there are children in the home. If your home was built before 1950, the chances of lead-based paint being used skyrocket to near-certainty.
Some of the best places to check for lead paint are in areas of peeling paint as this increases your chances of exposure. Some other good places include window frames and sills, trim and siding, cabinets, doors, and baseboards.
Paint samples need to be tested to confirm the presence of lead. You can purchase a laboratory analysis for $25-$50, which will tell you if you have leaded paint and how much of it is present. Alternatively, most hardware and paint stores carry lead testing kits for $10. However, these tests will not necessarily tell you the levels of lead if you have any.
Regardless of whether or not your home has lead, the state of repair of the home’s paint inside and outside is important.
