Lead paint test kits

If your home was built before 1978, a lead paint test kit is worth keeping on hand before any sanding, scraping, or renovation. Instant swab kits (rub on a cut edge, watch for a color change) give a yes/no in seconds and are perfect for spot-checking trim, doors, and window sashes. Lab-based kits send a paint chip in for a definitive reading. For dust or soil lead, or for clearance after abatement, you’ll want a certified lab or inspector. Always test before you disturb old paint — that’s when lead dust becomes a hazard.