Every now and again, lead turns up in the headlines, but some people are not sure why it is such a hot-button topic. They may know that lead is dangerous, but may not know how prevalent it used to be in practically every industrialized chemical compound. Even today, despite everything modern science has discovered about the nature of lead poisoning, this metal is still used in some products.
A History of Lead Usage
Lead is the densest stable element, which means that is it not radioactive, but is very heavy. It is prevalent in the earth, easy to mine and smelt, and extremely malleable. These characteristics allowed it to become a metal of choice for several civilizations, including the Romans. They used lead for the pipes in their plumbing systems, and the lead is often blamed for at least part of the collapse of that great empire. Lead poisoning occurs when a person ingests or inhales lead or lead residue. The resulting damage to the nervous system is often irreparable. Some common items that with lead in them include:
- Scuba diving and fishing weights
- A colorant in ceramic glazes
- Electronics’ soldering
- Gasoline (pre-1970’s in the United States)
- Unregulated children’s toys
Removing Lead Residue From Buildings
At AQHI Inc., part of our expertise lies in removing lead from houses and other structures. Especially when a family has small children in residence, it is highly encouraged to remove anything that could be contacted and therefore ingested by the child. Although small particulates of lead may not seem to be all that dangerous, poisoning can happen gradually.
Paint made in between 1940 and 1978 typically used lead as a binder. As a house’s old paint chips away, the underlying layers of lead paint from decades back can start to enter into the home environment. We have several techniques for containing a lead paint situation:
- Complete removal and replacement of the paint
- Enclosing the lead paint with siding, drywall, or paneling
- Encapsulating the paint with a coating of a special sealant.
No matter what technique we use, we guarantee that your home will be safe from lead contamination.
Take the Threat of Lead Seriously to Prevent Serious Neurological Damage
Although you may think that you do not have any contact with the lead that sits on your house in its paint, it is better to be safe than to face the serious consequences of lead poisoning. No matter what size project your lead situation entails, we have the tools, experience, and training to handle your job safely. Call AQHI Inc. at 800-481-8080 to speak with a professional about removing lead-laced paint and help make your home or other structure safe for you and anyone else near.
