Test for Lead Contamination in Paint on Brick
Brick can be porous and therefore highly absorbent. The LeadCheck dye can simply be drawn into the surface making the developed color difficult to see.
Supplies
- LeadCheck® Household Lead Test Kit
- Object to be tested for lead
Steps
For Porous Brick:
- Remove a paint chip from the surface and crumble onto a piece of plastic wrap or wax paper. Activate the LeadCheck® Swabs as described in the direction and rub into the paint.
- Alternatively score the paint down to the brick substrate. Activate the LeadCheck® Swab and rub on the exposed cross-section of paint. Look for pink color development on the exposed paint edge.
For Red Brick:
- Test for nonspecific color transfer to the swab tip by crushing the B ampoule of the LeadCheck Swab and rubbing the clear liquid on an exposed section of brick. If the swab turns red remove a paint chip from the test surface. Follow the method described in the porous brick (above) to test the paint chip.
If lead is identified in your home, then use these "lead safe practices":
- Get children tested even if they appear healthy.
- Wash children's hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often.
- Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces.
- Replace mini-blinds that test positive.
- Avoid using positively-tested dishes on a regular basis.
- Avoid using dishes that test positive for storage or for serving acidic foods.
- Don't leave toys that may contain lead in the sun.
- Never sand lead paint.
For a guide on reducing lead exposure when renovating or remodeling, ask for "Reducing Lead Hazards When Remodeling Your Home" published by the EPA. For further assistance consult a lead professional.