Lead can be found in paint on homes that were built before 1978. The Consumer Products Safety Commission banned the use of lead-based paint after that year. If your home was built before 1960, then it probably has even more lead paint. Peeling, chipping, chalking or cracking lead-based paint is a hazard and needs immediate attention. Lead-based paint may also be a hazard when found on surfaces that children can chew or that gets a lot of wear-and-tear. Constant friction or rubbing of surfaces can cause paint to deteriorate. These areas include:

* Windows and window sills
* Doors and door frames
* Stairs, railings and banisters
* Porches and fences
* Exterior of a house (due to harsh weather)

Potentially Hazardous Renovation Activities

* Dry scraping or dry sanding
* Sandblasting
* Using an open flame or torch to burn off paint
* Power sanding or grinding
(unless shrouded tool with HEPA vacuum attachment is used)
* Using methylene chloride - it's toxic
* Cutting into drywall
* Replacing windows