[SustainableTompkins] lead testing -- recommendations?

[Deb Eichten]

For quick assessment, of your window and door casements for example,  you
can purchase  a home testing kit at Home Depot , Loews and similar stores.

Any reputable home inspection service listed in yellow pages (or ask a local
realtor you know for references) will do testing of your property.  Before
you venture down the path of hiring a testing service, I advise going to one
of the state web pages and search "lead paint laws".- especially if you have
children under the age of six years living in the subject property.

 In an older home, lead paint abatement can be a costly and an extensive
remediation process.   In certain situations, demolition of home interiiors
creates a dangerous environment by  freeing up toxics.  A viable approach
for many familits is to replace  parts of a home that is failing (eg.
replace that drafty old door;  instead of sanding the lead paint off a wide
pine board floors, cover it  securely with non-toxic new
flooring).  Simply being digilent about washing windows, and floors where
children are present can do a lot to protect your family.

The *Ithaca Green Builders Alliance*  is pretty keen on knowing about, and
avoiding use of household toxics. Although there is not a certified lead
abatement specialist on the current member list, you might get a good
recommendation for a contractor.

And of course the new store on Ithaca *Commons Home Green Home* is all about
non-toxic materials for livign spaces.

 I hope this personal perspective from a home owner who has "been there ,
done that" in three  houses aged between 1890 and 1920 as my sons grew to
adulthood, at least provides you with some additional paths to explore.  To
your health!



On 11/8/07, Miranda Phillips <phillipsville at gmail.com> wrote:
>
> Hello,
>
> My husband and I would like to get our house tested for lead.  Does
> anyone have recommendations for how to do that?
> Any experience (positive or negative) with EcoSpect?  Any thoughts
> would be appreciated.
>
> Also, is anyone aware of local groups which focus on household toxics
> as a discussion topic and/or subject for activism?
>
> thank you!
>
> Miranda
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