Lead paint in older homes: what not to do when you renovate

Lead paint is mainly a renovation problem. Paint in good condition that nobody chews or sands is low risk; the danger starts when old paint is turned into dust or fumes during a renovation, especially around children and pregnant people.

Which homes

Health Canada says homes built after 1990 should not contain lead paint because consumer paints were virtually lead-free by then. Its renovation guidance uses homes built before 1991 as the group that may have lead paint, including older coats under newer ones. Treat a home from around 1990 or earlier as possibly affected.

Test before you disturb it

A certified inspector can measure lead levels, or you can send paint chip samples to a laboratory. Test before sanding, scraping or removing trim, doors or windows.

What not to do

Do not sand, dry-scrape or burn off paint that may contain lead. Health Canada advises against sanders, heat guns and blowlamps on old paint; dust can contain lead, and heat can produce toxic lead fumes.

Safer options

Paint in good condition and out of children's reach can often be left alone. Covering it with new paint, wallpaper, wallboard or paneling is acceptable if the old paint is not disturbed. If lead paint has to be removed, Health Canada suggests hiring a professional.

If you must remove it yourself

Use a chemical stripper rather than heat or sanding, seal off the work area, ventilate, wear protective equipment, and clean up daily. Put scrapings in sealed, labelled containers for disposal, and finish with a HEPA vacuum and thorough cleaning. Keep children and pregnant people away from the work.

Prevention Checklist

• Check the age of the house; before about 1990, assume paint may contain lead.
• Test before sanding, scraping or removing painted parts.
• Never use sanders, heat guns or torches on old paint.
• Cover intact paint instead of removing it where possible.
• Hire a professional for removal, or follow strict containment and cleanup.

References

1. Health Canada. Lead-based paint, Web page, Age of homes; what to do. Accessed 2026-11-01.
2. Health Canada. Chemical safety for Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects and renovations, Web page, Homes before 1991; sanding and heat. Accessed 2026-11-01.
3. Health Canada. Reduce your exposure to lead, Web page, Exposure. Accessed 2026-11-01.

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