Lead Problems with Older Cast Iron Bathtubs

Lead problems with cast iron bathtubs are something that is becoming a problem that a lot of people are just now becoming aware of. It is important that you make yourself completely aware of what it is that you need to do to prepare you and your family from the dangers of lead problems, especially in your bathtub.

Bathtubs

There are several different types of bathtubs that can have this issue. However, older cast iron bathtubs are prone to have this problem the most. In fact, up to 77% of cast iron tubs that has been tested in the past tested positive for containing lead. Many studies have been done stating that a large percent of bathtubs test positive for a leachable lead that is on the surface of them. It is important that you know how to check and what to look for to know if your family is in danger of lead poisoning.

Blood Lead Levels

If you suspect that you and your family are running the risk for being exposed to lead, it is important to get everybody’s blood lead levels checked. You will find that if it is high, then you may have an issue of a bathtub that is leaking lead. There are several things in your home that can do this so it is important that you have everything checked. There is lead-based paint as well as lead that are in dust around the house. Make sure that you check everything out to make sure that every single bit of lead in your home is removed completely.

Home Lead Test Kit

There are several different types of home lead test kits out there. You will find that being able to use these will help you to be able to test different areas in your home easily and quickly. These kits do not cost much money and are typically very effective. Make sure that you do your research on the kit that you choose to make sure that it is one that is going to give you accurate results. The kits are usually very easy to use; there are swabs that you will run along anything that you suspect contains lead.

What to Do

It is important that you know what to do if your bathtub contains lead. You will find that replacing your bathtub is something that is expensive and a lot of trouble. Not to mention you will be running the same risk with a different tub. The easiest and cheapest solution is to simply get your bathtub refinished. Refinishing a bathtub is something that you can actually do yourself. Even if you have a professional do it, it is still much less expensive than replacing your entire bathtub.

Who is at Risk

Anybody that uses a bathtub that has lead in it is putting themselves at risk. However, children are the most susceptible to lead poisoning. Whenever children play in a bathtub, a lot of the water will get in their mouths where it will then get into their system.