QUESTION: What would be best to temporarily cover up flaking paint? 10 May 2008 WA, Australia

Hi,

My husband and I have bought an old 1940's house that has some flaking paint in the kitchen (roughly 2m squared area). The paint has tested positive for lead. We will be renovating in the next year (and know the hazards associated with such renovations regarding lead), but I am wanting to know what would be best to use to cover up the flaking paint in the meantime?

Thanks,

Carli

ANSWER: 10 May 2008

Hi Carli,

The answer to your question is clear Contact - it should stick to the wall if you ensure the wall is sprayed with liquid sugar soap and wiped down with a damp sponge and then rinsed with a clean damp sponge. The advantage of using clear contact is that it is evident that the job is still waiting to be done and being able to see the flaking paintwork encourages you to actually remove it sooner rather than later. I hope you have found on our website the appropriate management techniques for the paint in your situation, by reading the factsheet "Lead paint & ceiling dust management - how to do it lead-safely"

Yours Sincerely

Elizabeth O'Brien

Also see: Lead in House Paint and The Six Step Guide To Painting Your Home