Lead-based paints

Lead-based paints were used in many homes prior to its banning by the federal government in 1978. As the name implies, lead-based paints contain lead.  Lead is added to paint to accelerate drying, increase durability, maintain a fresh appearance and resist moisture that causes corrosion.

Exposure

Lead-based paints in good condition pose little risk but those that begin to peel, chip, chalk, or crack do pose a health risk. Many documented cases of lead poisoning can be attributed to lead contamination resulting from the degradation of such paints.As lead-based paint products degrade lead can be released into the surrounding environment in the form of dust. Lead dust can also be formed and become airborne when lead-based paint is sanded or scrapped or when rubbed together, painted surfaces can also produce lead dust. The lead dust can settle and then become airborne again when disturbed by sweeping, vacuuming, or just walking through a contaminated area. Chips of paint flaking off of exterior surfaces can even cause ground contamination.

Health Risks

Lead poisoning can occur when lead is inhaled or ingested. The concentration of lead in the body will grow over time with continued exposure. Physical symptoms of lead poisoning in children can include: damage to the brain and nervous system, behavior and learning problems, slowed physical development, hearing problems, and chronic headaches. Adults are also affected and can have: difficulties during pregnancy, reproductive problems, high blood pressure, digestive problems, nerve disorders, memory and concentration problems, muscle and joint pain.

Dealing with Lead-Based paints in your home

It is sometimes better to just assume that if your home was built prior to 1978 that it contains lead-based paints.

  • Wipe down flat surfaces, like window sills, with a damp paper towel and throw away the paper towel
  • Mop smooth floors (using a damp mop) weekly to control dust
  • Take off shoes when entering the house
  • Vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove dust. If possible, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter or a “higher efficiency” collection bag.
  • Pick up loose paint chips carefully with a paper towel and discard in the trash, then wipe the surface clean with a wet paper towel
  • Take precautions to avoid creating lead dust when remodeling, renovating or maintaining your home
  • Test for lead hazards by a lead professional, including the soil around your home

The US Housing and Urban Development Department (HUD) offers information on
how to Protect your family from Lead in your home.

Customer Testimonials

We are happy with the weatherization work done at our house. It was great to work with Jason, he was very open to hearing our input and questions about our project, and he gave us a very knowledgeable and thorough… Read more “Betsy & Brian – Rindge NH”

Betsy & Brian – Rindge, NH

Both Allisen and I thank you so much for an awesome insulation job! The numbers came in fantastic for air exchange as well! Indicates a fine job done. Each and every member of your team showed tremendous respect to our… Read more “Allisen and Jeff – Newbury”

Allisen and Jeff – Newbury, NH

It was a pleasure working with you as well and thank you for providing the website to pass along to family & friends. I’ve mentioned it to quite a few. If you ever need a recommendation, please don’t hesitate to… Read more “Christina – Laconia NH”

Christina – Laconia, NH

We are more than happy to sing the praises for your entire crew from the office staff to out in the field employees. It is a rare to see a complex and an all-consuming job done with such untiring precision,… Read more “Maria and Paul – Andover NH”

Maria and Paul – Andover, NH

Dear Rich, Recently in a conversation we heard the name Shakes To Shingles. We hope we are correct in remembering that you provided an inspection of our home well over a decade ago. We very much appreciated you expertise, time,… Read more “Heather and Stewart – Concord NH”

Heather and Stewart – Concord, NH

We recently had a fuel delivery after the weatherization work. Usually during the winter our fill up would be 200 gallons. We just received the bill and the fill up was less than 100 gallons!

Bev – Plainfield, NH

We wanted to thank you for your professional services insulating our home which has already made a difference in our heating as well as electric consumption. We also wanted to acknowledge your employees. They were professional, respectful and effcient. It started with… Read more “Rob and Doris – Rochester NH”

Rob and Doris – Rochester, NH

We can feel a difference in the house. We could before your crew finished. We are very pleased with the work done and how professional your crew was. All of the guys were great. With our son on school vacation… Read more “Jesse and Barbara – Sunapee NH”

Jesse and Barbara – Sunapee, NH

Again, your crew did a great job. We have noticed a tremendous difference in the need for heat even with the somewhat warmer than normal temperatures. I am thrilled.

Ed – New London, NH

Rich: Just wanted to take a moment to thank you for all of your efforts at our house in Bedford. You know the challenges we were facing, trying to coordinate roofing work, HVAC work, bathroom work, etc., and make sure… Read more “Bob – Bedford NH”

Bob – Bedford, NH

Rich, thank you for your efforts in my home. I feel confident in referring your services.

Nancy – Goffstown, NH

Hi Rich,  I just wanted to thank you and all of the workers for a great job. We appreciate all that you have done for us and I can’t imagine what a difference this will make in our home for… Read more “Agnes and Dan – Goffstown NH”

Agnes and Dan – Goffstown, NH

Thanks for sending the guys out this morning to finish up the job! – If you ever need any recommendations please let me know.  Thanks

Jere - Durham, NH
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603-415-1115 info@shakestoshingles.com

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