New Methods To ‘Get The Led Out’

Being a former (and current) Ledhead, when I think lead – I think Zeppelin.  Especially when I hear the phrase “Get The Led Out,” which comes from The Loop’s daily late night radio salute to the Kings of Blues-Rock.  But lately “Get The Lead Out” has taken on a whole new meaning in my life.  Beginning in April the EPA will require new rules and procedures for the removal of lead-based paint in America’s older homes.

The EPA will require contractors to use more extensive and rigorous methods to dispose of construction debris than ever before.  The new rules require posting signage to warn of lead danger, HEPA filter vacuums for clean up, the use of air exchangers to remove dust in the air, wet-washing construction areas after demolition and being registered with the EPA for lead-based renovations.

The new rules were enacted to protect children from the dangers of lead poisoning.  Lead is harmful to both children and adults. In children, a tiny amount of exposure can lead to neurological damage, and in adults, lead inhalation can lead to hypertension, muscle and joint pain, fatigue and nausea among other symptoms

All housing, childcare and school structures built before 1978 are affected by the EPA program.  If your house is of this age then you need assume that lead is present in your home and make sure your remodeling company is trained in safe lead paint removal.  Naturally, the new procedures will add an expense to your project not required in newer homes.

Crimson has applied with the EPA to register as a certified renovation firm.  We will also be receiving training and investing in equipment to comply with this new regulations to keep your family safe.  Now I’ll be able to “Get The Lead Out” safely.

Interior Renovation Will Create A Slice of Heaven in St. Charles

If this was the view out your back window you would never want to leave!  Well that’s exactly the attitude of the homeowners on our newest project in St. Charles.  They have a beautifully secluded piece of property and they don’t want to give it up.  Unfortunately, the house, built in the 50’s, doesn’t fit the dream. Therefore, they have hired Crimson to give all the bedrooms and bathrooms in the house a major overhaul.  Over 1000 square feet of the house will get a face lift to make better use of space.  One of the bathrooms will be a new luxurious master bathroom complete with walk-in shower.  Additionally, the master bedroom will get a new walk-in closet and a large sitting room with a view through a newly installed twelve foot wide patio door.  What a great place it will be to sit and read on a spring or fall afteroon.

As you can see, everyone is hard at work demolishing the old.  With 1-1/2″ thick plaster walls in the two bathrooms that hasn’t been easy.  As you can see from the picture, the shower and tub would have made a great fallout shelter.  But after two full dumpsters (sent to Hoving for recycling) the old is out and it’s time to start building new.  This week the framing will be completed and the new rooms will take shape.

Watch for new updates as this project progresses.