How to Test for Lead Paint

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By Lea Barton
eHow Contributing Writer

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Testing your home for lead paint is an important public health issue. Whether you already own your own home, rent an apartment, or are in the process of purchasing a home, knowing whether lead paint is present is crucial. Lead poisoning is a serious issue for adults but especially for small children; cognitive development can be seriously harmed by lead in children, and behavioral problems such as ADHD-like or autistic-like symptoms can mask the reality of lead poisoning. Some states, such as Massachusetts, have strict laws governing lead paint testing. For instance, children five and under cannot live in a home apartment where lead paint is present. Knowing whether your home or apartment has lead paint is crucial; learn how to test for lead paint and have peace of mind.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Lead paint test kit
Lead paint inspector

Step 1

Buy a lead paint test at an area hardware store.
Step 2

Follow the directions and test surfaces for paint. Be sure to test any surface a child can reach. This includes radiators, door and floor trim, garage doors, etc.
Step 3

Call a lead paint removal specialist if you detect lead paint. If you need a more thorough lead paint testing scenario, move on to Step 4.
Step 4

Call a lead paint testing company. A full lead paint test in a house will cost between $200 and $300.
Step 5

Watch the lead paint testing technician as he or she does the lead paint test. They will use an x-ray gun to test all walls, door jambs, trim work and windows. The x-ray gun will determine the amount of lead, even in thick walls.
Step 6

Take the lead paint report and examine it. Call a lead paint removal specialist if lead paint is detected in levels high enough for action.

Tips & Warnings

Be sure the lead paint inspector is licensed with your state.
Have outside soil near windows tested as well. Don't plant vegetables or edible foods near lead-infested soil.
Not all lead paint surfaces are required by law to be abated, but with small children it's best to be safe.

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