Protecting Your Family from Lead Dust During Window Replacement

Window replacement in pre-1978 homes disturbs lead paint and creates lead dust—the primary pathway for lead exposure. According to the CDC, children are especially vulnerable. Here's how to minimize risk.

Why Window Replacement Creates Risk

According to EPA and HUD research:

• Removing old windows scrapes and breaks paint
• Cutting, sanding, and drilling release fine dust
• Lead dust settles on floors, furniture, and belongings
• Dust can spread throughout the home without containment

According to CDC, even small amounts of lead dust can cause harm, especially to children under 6.

What Certified Contractors Do

According to EPA RRP requirements, contractors must:

Contain the work area:

• Plastic sheeting on floors (extends 6 feet minimum)
• Cover furniture and belongings
• Seal vents and doorways
• Post warning signs

Control dust during work:

• Mist surfaces to suppress dust
• Use HEPA-equipped vacuum for debris
• No dry scraping or sanding without containment
• No heat guns above 1100°F

Clean thoroughly after:

• HEPA vacuum all surfaces
• Wet wipe all surfaces
• Re-vacuum and re-wipe
• Visual verification of cleanliness

What Homeowners Can Do

According to HUD guidance, during the project:

Before Work Starts

• Remove or cover all furniture in work areas
• Take down curtains and blinds
• Remove children's toys and items
• Consider temporary relocation during work

During Work

• Keep children and pets away from work areas
• Keep windows in other rooms closed
• Ask contractor about containment measures
• Don't enter work area until cleanup complete

After Work

• Verify cleaning was completed properly
• Wet-mop floors in adjacent areas
• Wash children's hands frequently for several days
• Watch for symptoms (though lead poisoning often shows no immediate symptoms)

Special Precautions for Children

According to CDC:

• Young children absorb lead more readily than adults
• Lead exposure at low levels affects brain development
• There is no safe level of lead exposure for children

If young children live in the home, according to HUD guidance:

• Consider temporary relocation during work
• Extend cleaning to entire home after project
• Consider clearance testing after project completion

The Bottom Line

Lead dust from renovation is preventable with proper practices. According to EPA, certified contractors using lead-safe methods dramatically reduce exposure risk. Your role is ensuring those practices are followed.

*For complete lead safety information, see: [Lead-Safe Window Replacement](/guides/lead-safe-window-replacement)*