Homeowners in Colorado Springs planning to repaint older houses may be unaware that federal regulations can impact their projects before any paint is applied. Front Range Painters, one of several painting companies colorado springs residents rely on, is urging owners of pre-1978 homes to understand these rules and ask the right questions before work begins.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, homes built before 1978 are likely to contain lead-based paint, as the federal government banned consumer uses of lead-containing paint that year. Exposure to lead dust can cause serious health problems, especially in children and pregnant women, making proper handling critical during renovation.
The EPA's Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule requires firms paid to perform projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities, and preschools to be EPA-certified. They must also use certified renovators and follow lead-safe work practices. This applies to common painting prep, such as surface preparation that disturbs existing paint. Contractors must provide occupants with the EPA's "Renovate Right" pamphlet before work begins.
The EPA identifies certain practices as prohibited on these projects, including open-flame burning, using high-speed power sanders or grinders without HEPA exhaust controls, and operating heat guns at 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. These methods can release dangerous lead dust and fumes.
"When we look at an older home, the first question isn't the color. It's when the house was built," said Danny Manriquez, owner of Front Range Painters. "That one answer changes how the prep gets done, how the site gets set up and how the cleanup gets handled."
The issue is especially relevant for exterior projects, where years of weather exposure can leave older paint peeling or flaking. Before hiring any of the exterior painters colorado springs has to offer, homeowners can ask whether the firm is EPA-certified and how it plans to contain paint chips and dust. The EPA maintains an online search tool that lists certified renovation firms.
The same questions apply indoors, where colorado springs interior painting projects in older homes often involve window trim, doors, and stairways. The rule can also apply when original painted cabinets are sanded or stripped during cabinet painting colorado springs projects in pre-1978 kitchens.
"Most people just want the house to look good again, and that's fair," Manriquez said. "But if you've got an older home, spend two minutes asking your painter about lead before anybody starts scraping. A good contractor will have a straight answer."
Front Range Painters is encouraging homeowners with questions about an older home to review the EPA's guidance and to discuss the home's age with any contractor during the estimate stage. This proactive approach can help prevent lead exposure and ensure compliance with federal law.
Front Range Painters is a residential painting company based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, owned by Danny Manriquez. The company provides interior painting, exterior painting, and cabinet painting services. It serves Colorado Springs and nearby communities within about 25 minutes of the city.
