When working on a historic home built before 1978, chances are that you’ll run into lead paint.  It’s not something to play with, but it’s also not something to fear so much that you avoid working on your windows.  There are many ways to easily mitigate lead exposure.  One easy way is to keep around some helpful items that help with lead mitigation.  In this video, I work with Melanie of Glaze Craft Windows in Virginia to outline some low-cost items that can help keep your workspace clean and your lungs happy.

Please also see my tools list to find other PPE and lead safety equipment.

1. P100 Respirator – Real Protection

A basic dust mask won’t cut it. You need a P100 respirator—rated to filter out 99.97% of particles, including lead dust and vapors. Make sure you get a proper fit; even tiny gaps let bad stuff in.

Amazon: https://a.co/d/64QKJ0w

2. Esca Tech D‑Lead® Surface Wipes 

Lead dust settles everywhere—even on tools, trim, and windowsills. D‑Lead wipes are perfect for wiping surfaces and gear once the big mess is done. Fast and easy way to prevent spreading contamination.

Amazon: https://a.co/d/iZutrzT

3. Esca Tech D‑Wipes® for Skin 

Got lead on your hands or face? D‑Wipes take it off right away. They’re made for regular skin contact and leave you feeling safe—plus, they save you from tracking dust through the house.

Amazon: https://a.co/d/9z6CtqJ

4. Esca Tech Lead Test Kit 

Always test—don’t guess. Esca Tech’s pro-level lead kits give accurate results so you know what you’re dealing with before grabbing any tools. No surprises.

Esca website: https://dleadpainttestkit.com/

5. Pro‑Scraper + HEPA Vacuum 

I love this one: a Pro‑Scraper hooked directly into a HEPA vac. Scrape paint, and it goes right into the vacuum—no job-site cloud of dust.

SRS Hardware: https://www.srshardware.com/product/proscraper-vacuum-scraper/

6. HEPA Vacuum 

Standard shop vacs don’t grab lead dust, but a true HEPA vacuum will capture 99.97% of 0.3-micron particles. Use it with your scraper, sander, and for after-job cleanup.

Mel’s Preference — Dewalt HEPA Vac on Amazon: https://a.co/d/3MJ7v1Z

Mitch’s Preference — VacMaster Pro HEPA Vac on Amazon: https://a.co/d/4PYwCij

7. Orbital Sander with HEPA Dust Attachment 

If you’re sanding, go with an orbital sander that connects to a HEPA vac. It dramatically cuts airborne dust and keeps clothes and lungs clean.

Mel’s Preference — Dewalt’s Random Orbital Sander: https://a.co/d/imSyQDM

Mitch’s Preference — Makita’s Random Orbital Sander: https://a.co/d/3iJuwBT

Hose Connectors:  (1) Cen-Tec System on Amazon — https://a.co/d/fctHGyN or (2) Peachtree Woodworking System on Amazon — https://a.co/d/fYOoIGh

8. ZipWall® Barrier System 

Working inside? ZipWall dust barriers let you seal off work zones fast. Stick them up, work within the containment, and remove them when you’re done. No dust wander!

Find at Zipwall website: https://www.zipwall.com/

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Final Word

Lead dust isn’t something to take lightly, but you don’t need a big budget to keep safe. With a respirator, the right wipes, source control tools, and barriers, you can restore those windows and protect yourself in the process.

Meet Mitch and Melanie:

Mitch, creator of Low Budget Window Restoration, offers online courses that make restoring wood and steel windows simple and affordable for DIY enthusiasts. Learn more at lowbudgetwindowrestoration.com.

Melanie, owner of Glaze Craft Windows, specializes in restoring pre-1945 wood windows using eco-friendly methods and traditional craftsmanship in the Mid-Atlantic region (including the Northern Virginia and Washington DC area). Visit glazecraftwindows.com to explore her services.

Follow Us on Instagram

Mitch: @onlinewindowrestorationguide

Melanie: @glazecraftwindows

For more step-by-step guidance on restoring historic windows, including Melanie’s expert tips, check out my online courses at lowbudgetwindowrestoration.com. Come learn, preserve, and celebrate historic windows with us!