Any new painting project can build excitement. You are finally updating the interior of your home to match the idea of your dreams. However, it’s important to think about the safety of your home when paint gets involved. Because some paint has volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause paint fumes, you, your family, and anyone who comes into contact with your home can be put at risk. There are many precautionary measures to ensure a safe painting project.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
While most paints that are used for the interior of a home are safe, there is the potential for paint fumes. Exposure to paint fumes can cause short-term effects like irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and trouble breathing. Long-term effects can include damage to body systems including the nervous system, liver, and kidneys. Doors and windows should always be opened and a fan should be turned on in the room where painting is taking place.
Allow Paint to Dry
Paint projects take some time to fully dry and if children or pets get into the room, it could cause problems. Make sure to child-proof and pet-proof the room so no one can get access. You can add locks and child gates to prevent any individual from entering the room.
Perform Lead Testing
For homes that were built before 1978, interior paints could contain lead. While lead paint is more durable and moisture resistant, it is dangerous to breathe. If lead-based paint is left undisturbed, it is not harmful. However, chipped, flakey, crushed, or sanded paint can present a hazard. When you breathe in these particles, you and whoever lives in your family can get sick.
If you have any cause for concern that your home may include lead-based paint, send in a sample to test it. If the results come back positive, you must immediately call a professional to remove the paint.
Protect Outlets
Any kind of paint can become a fire hazard if it somehow gets inside any exposed outlet. To prevent a fire, it’s recommended to remove any switch plates and outlet covers and instead cover the areas with painter’s tape. Also, you can cut off a room’s power supply before starting for extra precaution.
Trust Liberty Painting with Your Next Painting Project
Liberty Painting & Siding is a leader in residential and commercial painting. We understand how important it is that the interior of your home fits your vision, while also understanding the need for safe paint practices. Our team is trustworthy and professional, and we provide detailed services that are the best in quality.
If you are interested in working with us for your next painting project, contact us today. We will ensure a safe process.
