Is Lead Paint Still a Problem If It’s Been Painted Over?

If you’ve ever stared at the cracked and peeling paint on your walls and had that sinking feeling of, “Oh no, what if this is lead paint?”—you’re not alone. If your home in Ham Lake, Andover, or Blaine, MN was built before 1978, chances are good that lead-based paint is lurking beneath those layers of color. And while a fresh coat of paint might seem like a good enough cover-up, lead paint doesn’t just magically disappear.

The good news? You don’t have to panic. But you do need to take it seriously. Lead paint, when disturbed, can pose health risks that go far beyond an ugly wall. The better news? There’s a safe and effective way to deal with it, and that’s exactly what we’re going to cover in this guide.

Why Lead Paint Is Still a Big Deal

Back in the day, lead paint was the go-to choice for its durability and rich pigmentation. That is, until researchers figured out it was also excellent at causing serious health issues. By 1978, the U.S. had banned it in residential homes, but that didn’t magically erase all the lead paint already in existence.

So, what’s the problem? When lead-based paint starts to deteriorate, it turns into tiny dust particles that can be inhaled or ingested. This exposure can lead to:

• Children & Pregnant Women: Developmental delays, learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and other lifelong health problems.

• Adults: High blood pressure, kidney damage, and neurological issues.

Even if your home has been repainted, all it takes is one cracked or peeling area to expose the lead underneath. That’s why knowing the signs and taking proper precautions is so important.

How to Tell If Lead Paint Is a Risk in Your Home

Lead paint isn’t a problem just because it exists—it’s a problem when it starts breaking down. Here are some warning signs that you need to take action:

• Peeling or chipping paint – Lead paint beneath newer layers can break through, releasing toxic dust into your home.

• Cracking or flaking surfaces – If you see paint flaking like a croissant, it’s time to get it checked.

• Friction points – Window sills, doors, and stairs tend to wear down over time, making them hotspots for lead exposure.

• Water damage – Moisture can cause bubbling or separating paint, revealing lead layers underneath.

If any of these are happening in your home, it’s time to call in the pros.

Can’t I Just Paint Over It?

Wouldn’t it be nice if painting over lead-based paint was a permanent solution? Unfortunately, while covering it up might reduce immediate exposure, it’s not a long-term fix. The moment that fresh paint starts to chip, crack, or wear away, you’re back to square one.

Plus, DIY removal is not an option. Sanding or scraping lead-based paint can create hazardous dust that spreads throughout your home. That’s why this job is best left to professionals who are trained to handle it safely.

What’s the Safe Way to Deal with Lead Paint?

If your home has lead paint, you need an EPA-certified painting contractor who follows strict guidelines to keep your family safe. Here’s what a proper lead-safe repainting process looks like:

Step 1: Testing & Assessment

A professional will test your home for lead paint using specialized kits or lab analysis. If lead is detected, they’ll determine the best course of action.

Step 2: Sealing Off the Area

The work zone will be carefully contained using heavy-duty plastic sheeting, warning signs, and proper ventilation to prevent lead dust from spreading.

Step 3: Safe Paint Removal

Instead of traditional sanding, EPA-certified painters use wet scraping, chemical stripping, or heat guns at specific temperatures to minimize dust. Specialized HEPA vacuums keep the work area clean.

Step 4: Preparing & Painting

Once the old paint is safely managed, new layers are applied with strict precautions to prevent lead from resurfacing in the future.

Step 5: Deep Cleaning & Final Inspection

After painting, the entire area is thoroughly cleaned with HEPA vacuums and wet wipes. Many contractors will conduct a final lead dust test to ensure safety.

Why Lead Paint Projects Cost More

You might notice that painting a home with lead paint is more expensive than a standard paint job. That’s because lead-safe procedures require:

• Extensive preparation to prevent lead dust from spreading

• Specialized safety equipment, including respirators and HEPA vacuums

• Thorough cleanup to ensure no lingering contamination

• Proper disposal of hazardous materials, following EPA regulations

While the extra cost can be frustrating, it’s an investment in your home’s safety and your family’s well-being.

How to Keep Your Home Safe If You Suspect Lead Paint

If your home was built before 1978 and hasn’t been professionally tested, assume that lead paint could be present. Here’s how to reduce risk while you plan for professional remediation:

• Keep paint in good condition – Regularly inspect walls and trim, and don’t let cracks go unchecked.

• Clean carefully – Use damp cloths and mops instead of dry dusting or sweeping, which can spread lead particles.

• Mind the windows – Keep window troughs clean since opening and closing windows can release lead dust.

• Wash hands frequently – Especially before eating or sleeping, as lead dust can settle on skin and clothes.

These steps won’t remove the problem entirely, but they can help you minimize risk while you figure out your next move.

When It’s Time to Call the Professionals

If you’re dealing with peeling paint in a home built before 1978, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem. Lead paint issues only get worse over time, and the longer you put off addressing them, the higher the risks become.

The safest, most effective solution? Bring in an EPA-certified painting professional who knows exactly how to handle lead paint without putting your family at risk.

It’s time to stop worrying about what’s hiding beneath those layers of paint. Get in touch today to schedule an assessment, and let’s make sure your home is safe, beautiful, and lead-free.