Does paint contain lead

Answer 1

You can buy LeadCheck lead test kits at hardware stores and lumber and home improvement stores. They are fairly cheap and work well enough if you don't happen to own a mass spectrometer.

These kits work sometimes and are not approved by HUD. If children are involved, find a DEQ or EPA lead inspector to test thoroughly.

In any building painted prior to 1978 with children or pregnant women using it, assume lead paint is present and follow lead-safe work practices for any remodeling or paint disturbing.

DEQ is Department of Environmental Quality. EPA website has more info on lead paint dangers and management

Google LEAD INSPECTORS or Dust Sampling Technicians. They should be using paint chip samples, special wet wipe tests, and an xRf spectrometer (which costs $10,000+)

Answer 2

To test for acrylic paint, apply about a teaspoon of Methyl Hydrate to a clean (white) rag, and then rub the paint with the wet part of the rag. If the paint transfers to the rag, it is acrylic paint.

To test for enamel paint, apply about a teaspoon of Turpentine to a clean (white) rag, and then rub the paint with the wet part. If the paint transfers to the rag, it is an enamel paint.

PS: Never paint over an enamel paint with an acrylic paint without using a good quality primer. The acrylic paint will flake or peal off the enamel paint very easily.

Answer 3

They sell kits at your local hardware store but are not HUD approved. If your serious you can visit the DEQ website and find a local lead inspector.

Answer 4

Paint in old houses may contain lead, which is dangerous, especially to children. Modern paint has no lead, usually.