If you’re thinking of redecorating or renovating your home, before you pick out a new paint colour and start taking measurements, it’s crucial to test for the presence of lead-based paint. It is a great way to ensure your walls are safe before releasing potentially harmful dust and paint chips into your home. In fact, there are a number of substances you should consider testing for before making changes to your home.
What is it?
Until the early nineties, when it was banned from being sold in the United Kingdom due to the dangers is posed to people’s health, lead was a common component in paint. If you live in a home that was built before 1992, there’s a chance it contains lead-based paint – even if it’s hidden under layers of new paint!
Why do I need to test for it?
When left untouched, lead paint is generally unharmful. However, if it is disturbed during home improvements – from being cracked or drilled into, for example – it becomes hazardous. If paint chips are ingested, or lead dust is inhaled, there are a number of risks – especially for young children or pregnant women.
High exposure to lead dust can cause a number of problems that affect the body’s organs and function, including the neurological, gastrointestinal and reproductive organs. Symptoms can include headaches, insomnia and nausea, among others.
What should I do about it?
If you’re a landlord planning on renovating, or a homeowner thinking of doing some DIY, the first step is to test for the presence of lead in paint.
Our self-test kits are safe, easy to use, and come complete with instructions and return packaging. The results will be back to you within three working days.
Purchase your self-test kit here, or get in touch with a member of the Envirochem team today: on our live chat or via the form below;