Hey everyone, I need some advice. We had a contractor start a backsplash remodel in our kitchen, and right before they began, they mentioned they would also be tearing out the drywall. I wasn't expecting that, but I agreed and figured they would control the dust. However, after the work was done, I came home to find dust all over the house. Since we live in a 1940s home and my wife is 15 weeks pregnant, I'm really starting to worry about potential lead paint issues. Even though I usually wouldn't stress about this, I'm in super-dad mode right now. The kitchen walls might have been redone recently, but I'm concerned about what's behind those layers. Should I consider having a company do XRF Testing, Air Testing, or a Dust Wipe Test? What steps should I take next?
3 Answers
Well, first off, 1940s houses often have plaster rather than drywall, so that could mean the walls have been renovated recently. But if you're still worried, it might be a good idea to get things cleaned up properly. Remember, the risk usually comes from long-term exposure, so don’t panic too much. Just take it easy! And congratulations on the upcoming baby!
A little self-care never hurts! Why not treat your wife to a fancy hotel or a spa day while you sort this out? It’ll be a nice way to keep her away from all that dust!
If it were me, I’d definitely do a few things: First, set up a HEPA air filtration system. Keep your wife out of the house while you tackle the cleanup—maybe hire someone if it's too much. Make sure to wear an N95 mask and use a vacuum designed for fine dust. It's also smart to open the windows to air everything out. As for testing, if it'll give you peace of mind, go for it, but be prepared that positive results won't change what happened. In the future, consider sealing off work areas with tarps to contain the mess.