Discounted Hunter Douglas Window Treatments – Avoid Lead Poisoning When Installing New Windows

Thinking about installing energy-efficient windows to lower PG&E bills? While the installation of new windows can save money on energy bills, without some foresight in the planning process, homeowners might incur an even greater unexpected cost-- lead-dust clean-up. If windows are not installed using lead-safe work methods, children under six, pregnant women, and those doing the window installation, might be at increased risk of lead poisoning.

"With Spring improvement projects getting underway, we are especially concerned that energy efficient window replacements could lead to more lead poisoning," noted Karen Cohn, Director, Children's Environmental Health Promotion Program. “We also want those who replace windows to be in compliance with local requirements for disturbing exterior paint.”

If your wooden windows were built before 1979 (when lead-based paint was banned for residential use), the wood probably contains lead-based paint. Removing and replacing windows involve activities that disturb lead paint such as trimming, planing, scraping, and sanding. These activities may spread lead dust throughout a home and lead to lead poisoning.

If ingested, lead can lower children’s learning potential, affect concentration and behavior, and damage hearing. Adults can suffer from reproductive, digestive, memory and concentration problems, high blood pressure, and muscle and joint pain.

Lead poisoning is a silent disease that can be detected only by a blood test. Parents are advised to demand their children under 6 years old be tested for lead.

Cleaning up lead contamination caused by a window replacement project is difficult and costly. The San Francisco Department of Public Health experts advise the following steps when planning home remodeling. First, hire a contractor who has received training in lead-safe practices. A trained contractor will use plastic to cover the floor and your furnishings. Next, ensure that your contractor knows how to limit dust production and prevent it from being tracked throughout the house.

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About The Author:

Mary Lamb is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.vertical-n-mini-window-blinds.com. Helping you select window treatments, discount window blinds, mini blinds & roller shades for every type of window.