The history of lead-based paint
Lead-based paint was used in ancient Greek and Roman times as early as the 4th century BCE. “Lead white,” made of the white lead mineral that is found in oxidized lead ore deposits, was produced as early as the 4th century BCE and used on buildings. Lead paint was popular later with European artists and early construction workers due to its thickness, density, and opacity.
It has recently been discovered that the most famous painting in the world, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, contains lead white paint. Famous western artists such as Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Goya used lead paints in their work, and some of them showed signs of lead poisoning.
In particular, Van Gogh’s ailments show potential for possible lead poisoning. According to ArtNet, “the painter was apparently in the habit of licking his used brushes, which were coated in lead paint. Lead poisoning, as we now know, results in a range of symptoms ranging from stomach pains and uric burps to arthritis and a range of neurological afflictions, including the depression and delusions with which the great Impressionist is now so closely associated.”
Why was lead paint popular with artists and for painting homes?
Lead paint was valued for its affordability, durability, color retention, and fast dry times. It was also dense and opaque, meaning that a little of it went a long way. Paint manufacturers began voluntarily removing lead pigments as early as the 1940s, as its dangers became more apparent. Before 1940, nearly 90% of homes had lead-based paint, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Lead paint in old houses is very common.
What are the dangers of lead-based paints?
Lead is toxic, and exposure can lead to severe health issues, especially for children and pregnant women. It can cause neurological damage, developmental delays, and even death in high doses. Even low levels can cause learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and decreased IQ.
How to identify lead-based paint in your Atlanta home
Common signs of lead-based paint include old paint that cracks into scales, and chalking, which is when old lead paint forms a powdery residue. Houses built before 1978 are suspect. Professional testing is recommended by the EPA, even though DIY home tests for lead paint are available.
Professional inspectors are specially trained and often use X-ray florescence machines to detect lead. If in doubt, they’ll send samples for lab analysis. According to Angi.com, “The cost of a lead paint inspection typically costs $600 but can exceed $800 or more. The cost depends on several factors, including the property size, location, and the methods used for inspection.
How to remove lead paint from your house
It’s best to leave lead-based paint removal to EPA-certified experts in Atlanta. According to Bob Vila, “this job requires not only specialized training, but specialized tools and materials as well.” These professionals wear hazmat suits and lead-rated High Efficiency Particulate Air filter masks, goggles, and rubber gloves. It’s serious business. According to Angi.com, “The average cost for lead paint removal is $3,634, but you could pay between $1,457 and $5,887, depending on the amount of lead paint present in your home.”
Does lead-based paint lower home value?
The presence of lead-based paint can impact the value of your Atlanta home. Potential buyers may be wary of the possible health risks and costs of removal of lead in wall paint or on trim. It’s important to note that in Georgia, it’s a legal requirement to inform a buyer of any lead-based paint in the house as well as including a lead disclosure attachment to your sales contract.
A hassle-free way to sell a home with lead paint
HomeVestors® in Atlanta buys houses in almost any condition, even houses with lead paint. As stated previously, homes with lead paint may present an issue when selling due to potential buyers being wary of the paint or the cost of removal. But that's not the case with us. We make it easy and convenient. Simply contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation at your house. One of our local, friendly property buyers will meet you, take a tour of your property, and answer your questions.
We can sometimes give you a fast, convenient offer the same day. Our offer may not always be top dollar, but we charge no hidden fees or commissions, pay typical closing costs, and buy your house “as is.” And we deliver top-notch customer service with a personal touch. If you accept our offer, we will work with you to get a closing timeline that fits your sale.
Contact us today to learn more about HomeVestors and how we can help you sell your Atlanta house that has lead paint.
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
