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Lead paint is not something you want to take risks with. Professional house painters can ensure that your home is both beautiful and safe.
(Image source: Deposit Photos)
When renovating or repainting an older home, many Aussies love the idea of restoring a bit of history. But hidden beneath those charming vintage layers might be a danger that’s harmful to your property and your health: lead paint. For anyone living in or renovating homes built before 1970, you’ll want to be aware of this.
While lead paint might sound like an issue from a bygone era, it’s not to be taken lightly, especially if you’ve got little ones around or are tackling DIY projects without professional help. Here’s why lead paint is a health hazard and why it’s better to leave its removal to the experts—like the house painters you’ll find on ServiceSeeking.com.au.
What Exactly Is Lead Paint?
Lead was commonly added to paint as a pigment, speeding up drying time. This made it incredibly popular, particularly in homes built before the 1970s. The problem? Lead is a toxic heavy metal that can cause serious health issues if ingested or inhaled. It wasn’t until the late 20th century that the dangers of lead became widely understood, leading to its eventual ban on residential paints.
While new homes and paints today are free from lead, older homes across Australia may still have layers of it lurking on walls, window frames, skirting boards, and more.
Health Risks of Lead Paint
Lead exposure is a serious issue. The most at-risk groups include children, pregnant women, and even pets. Lead poisoning occurs when lead accumulates in the body, typically through inhalation or ingesting dust or flakes from lead paint. This is particularly dangerous during renovations or repainting, as sanding or scraping old paint can release lead particles into the air.
Symptoms of Lead Poisoning:
- Developmental delays in children
- Learning difficulties
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain and vomiting
Children can absorb lead more easily than adults, and it can severely impact their developing brains. In severe cases, it can lead to permanent brain damage.
In adults, lead poisoning can result in high blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, mood disorders, and difficulties with memory and concentration.
Is Lead Paint Still a Problem in Australia?
Yes, especially in homes built before the 1970s. Even if the lead paint has been covered with newer, lead-free layers, it can still pose a risk if the surface is disturbed. For instance, repainting, removing old paint, or simply having areas where the paint is chipped or peeling could expose you to lead dust.
Unfortunately, most people won’t even know they’re dealing with lead paint until they’ve started sanding or scraping it off—by which time the particles may already be in the air, creating a health hazard.
DIY vs. Professional Lead Paint Removal
It might be tempting to take on a bit of DIY when it comes to sprucing up your home, especially with the wealth of online tutorials and how-tos available these days. But when it comes to lead paint, the risks far outweigh the benefits of going it alone. Even minor renovations can spread lead dust throughout your home, contaminating furniture, carpets, and even clothing.
Certified professionals, like the house painters on our platform, are trained to safely and effectively remove lead paint. They use specialised equipment and protective measures to ensure the job is done without harming your family’s health or the environment. Plus, they’ll make sure that the lead paint is disposed of correctly—another tricky process that shouldn’t be handled without proper knowledge.
Why You Should Hire a Professional Painter
Safety First: Lead paint removal requires careful planning and the right tools to avoid exposure. Professional painters know how to seal off rooms, use protective gear, and remove lead paint without risking health or safety.
Expertise: A trained house painter can assess the condition of your home and determine the best way to handle any lead paint. Whether it’s removing the paint entirely or encapsulating it, a pro will know how to address the issue correctly and legally.
Peace of Mind: By hiring a qualified house painter, you’re ensuring that your family and home are safe from the dangers of lead. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing that the job is done right, with all necessary precautions in place.
Cost-Efficiency: While DIY may seem cheaper at first, dealing with lead paint improperly can lead to higher costs in the long run, especially if someone in your household gets sick or you must hire a professional to fix mistakes. Investing in a professional can save you time, stress, and money.
How to Find a Qualified House Painter
Our marketplace, ServiceSeeking.com.au, makes finding a reliable and skilled house painter easy. All the painters listed are experienced, vetted, and ready to help with any lead paint concerns you might have. Whether you’re looking to remove lead paint entirely or repaint your home with a fresh, safe layer, our house painters have the expertise to do the job right.
Plus, you can browse reviews, get multiple quotes, and compare services—all in one place. No need to spend hours searching for the right person; we’ve got the best in the business ready to help you out.
Take the Safe Route—Hire a Pro
If your home was built before the 1970s or you’re unsure about the type of paint used, don’t gamble with your health. Hiring a professional painter can help ensure your home is beautiful and safe for everyone living in it.
