What You Should Know About Hidden Health Risks in a Home
By E. E. Kane
Photo © Michael Shake - Dreamstime
 They don't build them like they used to, and when it comes to lead paint, asbestos or other problems, it's a good thing. However, older houses have charm, character and solid materials that many new ones just can't match. How can you handle the problems so you can enjoy, or sell, that old house?
Lead Paint Problems
Homes built before 1978 contain lead paint that, if ingested (paint chips) or breathed (dust), can cause serious health problems. Sellers are required to disclose the known presence of lead-based paint, but removal is strictly up to the contract negotiation. Homeowners can safely remove lead paint if they follow specific guidelines, but contractors are required to be trained and certified in lead paint removal. If no children are in the home, it may be better to encapsulate painted surfaces and keep the home dust-free. For more information about lead-based paint, call 1-800-424-LEAD. |
Asbestos: Do Not Disturb or Tear It Out?
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral, commonly used in older homes in insulation, siding, vinyl flooring, shingles, wall patch and wall texture materials. Sellers must disclose any known presence of asbestos, but are only required to pay for removal if asbestos materials are deteriorating. Asbestos is only hazardous in its friable, or crumbly state, causing lung damage if breathed. If asbestos is encapsulated or in good condition (asbestos siding), it's safer to leave it alone. Safe removal requires an expert.
Radon: Run Away or Reduce the Risk?
Radon can exist in the soil of a home's foundation whether it is old or new. Radon is a radioactive gas found in pockets of the soil, and is the second leading cause of lung cancer, according to the Surgeon General. This is one health hazard the homeowner doesn't want to ignore. Radon can only be detected by a special test. Although do-it-yourself tests are available, a qualified tester would be the best choice for a house on the market. The EPA recommends contacting a state radon office for a list of qualified testers. Radon levels can be reduced by up to 99 percent by installing barriers and ventilation systems, according to the EPA.
Though each of these problems poses danger for a home's inhabitants, none of them are insurmountable. In many cases, renovation is an affordable option, and worth every cent for the charm of an older home. |
