Another start-of-year tradition here at Retro Renovation: A big reminder, everyone, to get informed and renovate safely. Renovating and remodeling our vintage and antique homes can be fun galore. But please always remember, there are many known potential hazards in surfaces and materials that you need to take personal responsibility to become knowledgeable about — consult with experts — so that you can make informed decisions about how to handle.
We all care very much about managing environmental and safety issues properly, so when undertaking any restoration project, be sure to familiarize yourself with and use recommended best practices. For example, the EPA hosts a website on lead in the home and a website on asbestos in the home. Some of the things that have come up on this blog over the years include: Lead – in various places… Asbestos – in various places… Electrical Safety… Untempered Glass…Window treatment cords… Radon…. I am not the expert, though, so don’t consider this a/the comprehensive list.
Also, here’s an article that came to my attention about potential lead hazards in ceramic tile:
- Ceramic Tile Institute Of America Field Report 2000-11-20 –Subject: Ceramic Tile Lead Hazards and Miscellaneous Other Lead Risks in Residential Remodeling and Construction, by Judson Bryant
Bottom line: Consult licensed professionals — know your house and what is in it… and where… in all its layers… and also about the proper disposal of debris, etc. Don’t be in a rush, or penny wise and pound foolish when it comes to your and your family’s safety and health.
Rita@thissortaoldlife says
Still feel kind of ill when I think about the work I did in my very first house (more than 20 years ago): It was built in the ’20s, and I spent a summer sanding paint off the wood trim. Didn’t know to be worried about lead paint, and certainly didn’t think about wearing any kind of mask to keep from inhaling all that dust. What’s done is done–but you can be sure that before we touch any of the popcorn ceiling in our new (1978) house, we’re going to have it tested. Thanks for the reminders and link to the EPA site.
MCM is Grand says
We need to be aware, even if there is a home inspection…our 1955 house had popcorn/acoustic ceilings…it was our realtor who urged us to get the ceilings tested for asbestos. We sent a sample off to a lab, and sure enough it tested positive. HazMat men came in white suits and removed the popcorn…..I am amazed at how many people tell me that they “just scraped it off” themselves….
pam kueber says
Thank you, MCM for underscoring. YES: Each homeowner (or landlord) needs to take responsibility for understanding all surfaces, all layers.
Ann-Marie Meyers says
In Wisconsin inspections are only required if there is going to be a lien on the house. Since I paid cash for mine, I had to remember all the inspections myself and get them done.
Also, every time I even contemplate doing something now, there is a little Pam sitting on my shoulder reminding me to renovate safe! So, your message is getting through to at least one of us.
gsciencechick says
I have some new-to-us vintage lamps being re-wired right now.
pam kueber says
Gold star!
Ann-Marie Meyers says
I found out it is very easy to re-wire basic lamps myself. We have a great Ace Hardware nearby. They said to bring in one of the lamps, then they sat down with me and talked me through the steps.
I feel so competent!
gsciencehick says
LOL, it’s Ace Hardware who’s doing the re-wiring!
Carole says
Good advice, and I agree. It’s up to each person to take responsibility for what they’re getting themselves into. lol
One thing I’ve learned over the past few years (and was shocked to find out actually), is that home inspections are not required in all 50 states. In Oregon it’s a requirement that inspections be obtained prior to purchasing a home, but in many states it’s up the home owner to obtain one, only if they choose to.
sophista-tiki says
A home inspection is usually required before buying a home, especially an older one. Any inspector worth their money will give you a gazillion page report on absolutrely everything, Including whats aspestos, and which paint is leaded, I kept mine for future reference .
pam kueber says
Again: Each homeowner needs to take responsibility for researching this issue and ensuring they have what they need to know to move forward.