We removed a shelving unit in our kitchen that was attached directly to the wall.
We intend to paint the entire room but the cabinet was on top of many layers of flaking old paint. The house dates back to the 30s and it is likely that some of the paint is lead based.
The area is roughly 3ftx6ft and we don't have any children. Should we avoid scraping it and call in professionals or is that small an amount relatively fine?
What about sanding?
Best Answer
Don't sand, that puts lead dust all over the place. Get some medium plastic and taped it to the wall and extend it out 6-12 feet to catch all the chips. Scrape it carefully so all the chips fall on the plastic. When done, roll up the plastic to trap the chips and dust, tape it closed, and dispose in the trash. (I don't like that step, but last I heard, there was nothing better).
Wipe all surfaces down with damp towels until no more dust is removed.
Wash your clothes thoroughly; be careful not to track through the rest of the house.
If you have a HEPA vacuum, use it! :)
You may not have kids now, but it's the lingering lead dust that is most dangerous.