One of the most exciting parts of a brownstone renovation is uncovering original woodwork hidden beneath layers of paint. From pocket doors to stair balusters, these details are worth the effort to restore. We have a blog post that takes you through the steps of stripping wood. But before you start stripping back those layers, there’s an important step that should never be overlooked: testing for lead.
Why Lead Paint Matters
Lead-based paint was commonly used in homes built before 1978, including nearly every Brooklyn brownstone. While it’s safe if it’s sealed and intact, once you begin disturbing it through sanding, scraping, or heat stripping, toxic lead dust and fumes can be released. Exposure can cause serious health issues, especially for children and pregnant women.
When to Test
If you’re working on any painted surface in a historic home, you should assume there could be lead present. Testing is quick and affordable, and it should always be done before beginning any kind of paint removal. Even a single layer of lead-based paint buried under newer coats can pose a hazard once disturbed.
How Testing Works
There are two primary approaches:
- At-Home Test Kits: Available at most hardware stores and on Amazon, these swabs provide fast results by changing color when lead is detected. They’re a good starting point but may not be as comprehensive. Here is one of our favorite lead testing kits strips that you can purchase on Amazon. We also love this UV light lead test which we recently tried, and it was super easy to use!
- Professional Testing: Certified inspectors use XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analyzers or lab samples to identify lead with more accuracy. This is the safest option for large-scale restoration projects.
Safe Work Practices if Lead Is Found
Discovering lead doesn’t mean you can’t restore your woodwork, it just means you need the right precautions:
- Hire an EPA-certified contractor for lead-safe work.
- Use methods designed to minimize dust, such as chemical strippers instead of dry sanding.
- Contain and properly dispose of debris in accordance with local regulations.
- Seal off work areas to prevent dust from spreading throughout the home.
Restoring woodwork in a brownstone is one of the most rewarding parts of a renovation. But safety comes first. By testing for lead before you begin, you’re protecting not just the craftsmanship of the home, but also the health of everyone living in it.
Preservation and safety should always go hand in hand. With the right precautions, you can uncover the beauty beneath the paint, and do it responsibly. Check out our recommended wood stripping products on our Amazon Storefront.
