October 6, 2010 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 25 Homes that were built prior to 1978 may have lead present. Homeowners who are thinking about renovations may want to consider taking extra safety precautions to prevent lead contamination. Consumption of lead can result in health problems that affect the nervous system and kidneys and could interfere with fertility and reproduction. High doses of lead can cause mental retardation, behavioral problems, brain damage, and even death. Older homes may contain a good deal of lead. Lead used to be added to paint to make the product last longer and flow easier. Water pipes used to be made from lead, as was the solder used to connect the pipes. Lead may even be in the soil surrounding the home. Because of the dangers lead presents, many homeowners are interested in retrofitting their homes to remove traces of old lead, or at least in preventing future contamination. Homeowners who are making minor renovations may actually stir up lead and introduce it into the environment. That is why caution must be taken with older homes. Whether one is hiring a contractor for renovations or doing the work him or herself, a lead-safe manner should be followed. Cover entryways, venting, ductwork, flooring, and other items in the room with an impermeable covering to prevent the release of lead dust outside the work area. Use wet-scraping and wet-sanding methods to minimize the amount of dust generated that could contain lead. Make sure tools, personnel, and other equipment are cleaned before exiting the room so the dust is not spread. Use containers to securely store waste and debris so it Home Improvement Renovate your household the lead-safe way Fall can safely be removed from the house. Follow applicable laws for the proper disposal of leadcontaining materials. Use HEPA-equipped vacuums to remove dust in a final cleanup of the work area. Wash down areas with water and an all-purpose cleaner so settled dust is removed. Be sure all workers are wearing appropriate safety equipment, such as ventilators, masks, gloves, and protective eyewear. Hire a lead professional to test the home to make sure lead is not present. Consumers can buy a do-it-yourself kit to test for lead-based paints in their homes. However, there may be false test results. Therefore, hiring a professional tester is the best option. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that firms performing renovation in pre-1978 buildings use certified renovators for lead-safe work. Individuals can become certified renovators by taking an eight-hour training course from an EPA-approved training provider. Lead-based paint is particularly dangerous because older paint can chip and deteriorate, causing lead dust in the home. Children may eat lead paint chips, and residents may inhale the dust. Actions should be taken to protect homeowners from lead-based paints in older homes. Painted items, such as doors, can be replaced. If a lot of debris will be generated, consult a professional. Covering up lead-based paint is a short-term solution. Sealants or gypsum wallboard can cover the paint. However, the old paint may continue to chip. Painting over the old paint may temporarily lock in the lead, but once the new paint deteriorates, lead dust may be released. Removal is the best option. Professionals experienced in lead paint removal can do it safely. Homeowners should not try to remove a large area of lead-based paint on their own. CIRINO LANDSCAPING Personal Service Personal Care Free Estimate Aerate & Feed Lawn Tom Cirino % ANY SERVICE Full Service Landscape Company CLEARCUT WINDOW & SIDING INC. No Job Too Small or Too Large • Custom Fitted Windows • Vinyl & Wood Siding • Small Additions • Replacement Doors, Storm Doors • Porch Enclosures Glass & • Roof Repairs • Custom Decks Screen ������������������������ Boilers Repaired or Replaced in One Day • Oil Tank Abatement • Chimney Liners • Water Heaters • Sewers & Drains • Cast Iron Gas Fired Boilers ����������������������������������������� ��������� 15 OFF New Clients Only • w/Coupon • Exp 10/30/10 • Not Combinable Fully Insured • No Subs Call 201-891-0955 For Information 201-512-1804 Repair Senior Discounts • N.J. State Lic# 6980 ������������ Keeping Families Warm Since 1929. 9-22-10 pat/janine Cirino2x2(9-22-10) 2x2” �������������������� �������������������� Serving All Your Home Heating Needs Prompt, Reliable Service You Can Depend On, Plus The Personal Attention You Deserve. • Oil Heat Systems Serviced & Installed • Automatic Fuel Oil Deliveries • Tank Insurance Available Cash ts Discougn il n O On Heati s Deliverie 24 Hour Emergency 201-891-1000 Service ����������������������� ������������������� ��������������������������