Which homes have lead paint
Homes built or painted before 1970 very likely have lead paint somewhere, and paint up to the late 1990s can still contain some. Newer paint layers often sit on top of the old ones, so a fresh-looking surface can hide lead underneath.
The usual places are window frames and sills, doors and door frames, skirting boards, eaves and fascias, gutters, and exterior walls.
Why the dust is the danger
Intact lead paint is fairly stable. The hazard comes when it is disturbed: dry sanding, scraping, heat guns or sandblasting turn it into fine dust and flakes that settle through the house and the garden. Young children and pregnant women are the most at risk. That is why dry sanding and sandblasting are never used.
How the work runs
- Suspect paint is sampled and tested through NATA-accredited laboratory partners.
- If lead is present, we recommend removal or encapsulation, depending on the paint’s condition and your plans.
- The work area is contained with plastic sheeting and kept clear of people and pets.
- Paint is removed with wet-strip methods that hold the dust down, or sealed in with an encapsulating coat.
- Dust and debris are cleaned up, and lead waste is bagged and disposed of properly.
- Clearance testing confirms the area is clean before it is used again.
Removal or encapsulation
Removal makes sense when paint is failing or a surface is being stripped back anyway. Encapsulation suits paint that is still well stuck down: it is sealed under a durable coating, with far less dust than removal creates.
Who does the work
Work is carried out to the relevant Australian Standards. Elite Restoration is part of the Elite brand, operating since 1984, is CM3 certified for contractor OH&S and compliance, and carries $20 million in public and products liability cover.
Lead paint questions
Can lead paint just be painted over?
Sometimes, if it is sound. Proper encapsulation uses a coating made to seal it in, after testing confirms what is there.
Can I remove it myself?
It is not recommended. Without containment and wet methods, lead dust spreads through the home.
Is it safe for children to stay during the work?
Children and pregnant women should stay away from the work area until clearance testing confirms it is clean.
Water Damage Restoration
Fire and Smoke Restoration
Mould Removal & Remediation
Mould Inspection
Asbestos Removal
Asbestos Testing
Dehumidifier Hire
Air Quality Testing
Structural Drying
Water Leak Detection
Trauma & Crime Scene Cleaning
Deceased Estate Clearing
Hoarding & Squalor Cleaning
Meth Testing & Decontamination
Lead Paint Removal
