What percentage of homes built before 1940 contain lead?

Homes built before 1940 are most likely to contain lead-based paint due to the fact that the United States banned the use of lead in residential paint in 1978. Research and data from the Environmental Protection Agency indicate that approximately 87% of homes constructed before 1940 are likely to have lead paint. This significant percentage reflects the historical practices in home construction and the widespread use of lead as a pigment in paint during that time. The presence of lead in older homes is a critical concern for lead poisoning prevention and emphasizes the importance of proper inspections and hazard assessments in maintaining safe living environments, especially for young children who are most vulnerable to lead exposure.