Owners of historic homes as well as older properties built before 1978 face special challenges in addition to maintaining architectural integrity whenever they seek to remodel more than a very small area. Many building materials–more than just the commonly-known paint and pipes–used prior to 1978 may contain lead. And if your home falls into this category and you’re looking to do anything from replacing your windows or siding to tearing off your roof, you’ll need a contractor who has approved training to detect and handle lead-containing materials.
For years training in handling lead has been a requirement for obtaining a Minnesota residential building contractor’s license. In 2010, lead-safe handling training was mandated under both federal and state EPA regulations. And it is anticipated that in the very near future a contractor must provide proof of approved and certified training in order to obtain a building permit for work on any home constructed prior to 1978.
Most people are aware that lead-containing materials–especially paint–are toxic and pose health hazards. What you might not know is that removal of these materials can create additional problems if not done safely. Are lead-containing building materials present on your home’s exterior? The only way to tell is by special testing kits employed by a contractor properly trained in their use. If lead is found, there are required procedures for safe containment and removal as well as proper disposal. Yes, lead is dangerous, but there are established procedures for safely removing and disposing of it without exposing people or the environment to additional toxic materials.
As the leading replacement window contractor in the Minneapolis area, and one who specializes in historic homes, we understand the importance of safely working with lead. Our company (as well as all of our crew foremen and many of our individual employees) is both a licensed Minnesota residential building contractor as well has lead-safe certified under EPA regulations. When you choose Window Outfitters for your next exterior home remodeling project on your older home, you can be confident that if we find lead, we’ll remove and dispose of it without causing additional problems for you. And you’ll rest assured knowing that your home is a safer place.
If you’re considering remodeling the exterior of your older or historic property in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, don’t take chances. Make sure your contractor has the approved lead-safe handling certification. At Window Outfitters we’ll be happy to provide ours. We’re trained and experienced in helping home owners protect their properties and their families.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
