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Lead paint-coated wrought iron fence

Hi, I am currently working on my Eagle project which involves the restoration of a wrought iron fence which is over a hundred years old. I tested the paint chips and they contain lead. Can I personally remove this paint or am I legally required to have a professional remove it? What is the best way for me to tackle this obstacle?

Richard Janita
visitor - Somerset, Ohio, USA
March 25, 2008

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Hi, Richard. Without a lot of searching, I don't know the legality for sure, but usually the restrictions apply to professionals rather than to individuals doing personal projects. For example, plumbers must use lead-free solder on pipes whereas consumers can buy leaded solder for their own pipe repairs. Professional painters must properly contain any leaded sand blast residue, but individuals probably are not legally obligated.

None the less, it is dangerous to you and to the environment to be cavalier about leaded paint. Pending hearing from anyone else on the matter, I would put large tarpaulins down, big enough to catch any scrapings. Then, wearing a face mask, I would scrape off the loose paint, but not sandblast it. Then paint over it. Collect the lead-based paint scrapings and take them to your county hazardous waste collection site. This is a personal opinion, not a professional opinion. Good luck.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
March 27, 2008