5 Best Lead Encapsulating Paint in 2022

Lead paint might have the advantages of drying quickly, resisting corrosion, and adding durability to the applied surface. But, do you know about the harmful effects caused by it?

When sanding a lead-painted wall, the flying dust particles can get inside the body and damage the vital organs. The symptoms of lead poisoning include nausea, headache, anaemia, and loss of appetite. In worst scenarios, it can even lead to death!

Unless you’re living in a US home built after 1978, you shouldn’t worry about the paint. If you aren’t sure of when your abode was built, the ideal way to steer clear of the potential dangers of lead is to reapply the painted surface with the best lead encapsulating paint.  

You don’t have to go anywhere in search for one because we have shared our top five picks. Just read the whole guide, and you’ll find your desired encapsulating paint!

Lead Encapsulating Paint – Quick Summary

• Eggshell Finish- INSL-X Lead Block Lead Encapsulating Paint

“This one offers a low-luster eggshell finish that is more durable than flat paint.”

• Preserves Architectural Details- FIBERLOCK LBC III Industrial Lead Encapsulating Paint

“This particular paint is great for those looking to preserve architectural details in windows and columns.”

• Child Guard Paint – ECOBOND LBP Lead Defender Seal & Treat Lead Paint

“This bitter-tasting lead encapsulating paint discourages children from ingesting the paint.”

• More Amount Of Paint- Lead Stop Encapsulating Compound

“If you need to cover more area, then this 5-gallon encapsulating paint is ideal for you.”

• Affordable- Lead Seal ‘n Stop Encapsulant

“Although this encapsulating paint is affordable, it provides full coverage of lead-based paint.”

Comparison Chart for Top 5 Lead Encapsulating Paints

Lead Encapsulating Paint Reviews

1. INSL-X Lead Block Lead Encapsulating Paint – Lead Block Encapsulating Paint

If you’re looking for lead encapsulating paint that is made for interior and exterior use, you can check out this one by INSL-X.

This water-based encapsulating paint works wonderfully on lead-based paints. It effectively seals the paint with a thick coating. If you want to make the coating thicker, you can apply multiple coats. For optimal results, the manufacturer recommends fixing any holes or gaps with plaster and removing nails before painting. 

Additionally, you can make the painted surface look neater by using high-quality nylon or polyester brush, a 3/4-inch to 1 1/4-inch nap roller cover, or an airless sprayer. The painted surface will give an eggshell finish that lasts longer than matte and flat paint.

Because lead-painted chippings have a sweet taste, children might be tempted to consume them. But, you don’t need to worry after applying this paint as it contains a bitter substance called Bitrex.

Lastly, you can use the paint on various surfaces, such as stucco, wood, and metal.

Pros

• Effectively seals lead-based paint
• Eggshell finish adds durability
• The bitter taste prevents children from ingesting the paint
• Can be used on various surfaces
• The paint does not drip

Cons

• The paint is very thick

Product Specialty

INSL-X Lead Block Lead Encapsulating Paint effectively covers lead-painted surfaces with an eggshell finish. It works on various surfaces, like wood, stucco, and metal.

2. FIBERLOCK LBC III Industrial Lead Encapsulating Paint – Encapsulating Lead Paint Exterior

Another great lead encapsulating paint that you can use both indoors and outdoors is the FIBERLOCK LBC III.

If you’re working on old historical buildings, then this is something you should consider getting. That’s because this paint can seal lead-painted surfaces while preserving architectural details. Whether you apply it on wood or concrete, the paint will ensure a perfect seal with a glossy finish.

A great thing about this paint is you can use it as a topcoat and a finish coat. Although the color of this particular encapsulating paint is white, you can add a two-ounce of your desired colorant for the applying surface.

For small to medium surfaces, the manufacturer recommends you use a paintbrush or a roller. And for larger surfaces, an airless sprayer will do.

Like all lead encapsulating paint should, the FIBERLOCK LBC III contains a bitter substance to prevent children from ingesting the paint. 

Pros

• Can be used as a topcoat and a finish coat
• Contains a bitter substance to prevent ingestion
• Effectively preserves architectural details while painting
• Seals surfaces with a glossy finish
• Can be applied to surfaces indoors or outdoors

Cons

• The paint is very thin

Product Specialty

FIBERLOCK LBC III Industrial Lead Encapsulating Paint perfectly seals lead-painted surfaces with a glossy finish. It gives excellent coverage, including holes.

3. ECOBOND LBP Lead Defender Seal & Treat Lead Paint – Child Guard Lead Encapsulating Paint

The ECOBOND LBP Lead Defender Seal & Treat lead encapsulating paint is another one worth mentioning in this list.

This particular paint is formulated with lead-blocking reagents to effectively prevent the spreading of lead particles to the environment. It also doesn’t emit an unpleasant odor that would otherwise affect the people around you. Plus, the paint is also tested to resist acid rain.

You can use the unfinished paint indoors and outdoors on different surfaces, such as wood, plaster, metal, masonry, and asphalt. Moreover, the all-in-one lead encapsulating paint works smoothly as a primer, a sealant, and a topcoat.

If you’re worried about your children ingesting the paint, there’s no need to because this one contains Bitrex.

As for the application tools, the manufacturer recommends you use a nylon or polyester brush, a good roller with a 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch nap cover, or an airless sprayer with a tip size between .021 and .033. If you’re using an airless sprayer, make sure to remove its filter.

Pros

• Works on a range of surfaces
• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• Works as a primer, a sealant, and a topcoat
• Does not emit unpleasant odor
• Prevents damages caused by acid rain

Cons

• Requires more coating for full coverage

Product Specialty

ECOBOND LBP Lead Defender Seal & Treat lead paint is an all-in-one paint that you can use as a primer, a sealant, and a topcoat. It ensures a perfect seal while protecting your family.

4. Lead Stop Encapsulating Compound

If you’re planning to cover a larger area of your home, you can go for this 5-gallon lead encapsulating compound by Lead Stop.

As its name suggests, Lead Stop prevents harmful lead particles from spreading in the environment. It also doesn’t have an unpleasant odor. These make the paint safe for use among homeowners and painters. It also contains Bitrex to prevent children from ingesting it.

When you apply the paint properly on a surface, it will last long. The thick paint seals a previously painted surface without leaving imperfections. It also cleans up easily with water.

If you want to add your desired color over the sealed surface, go ahead!

Pros

• Ensures a long-lasting seal
• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• It is non-flammable
• The paint does not have an unpleasant odor
• The paint cleans up easily with water

Cons

• The paint is expensive

Product Specialty

Lead Stop Encapsulating Compound is a non-toxic paint that provides a thick, smooth seal when applied to a surface. It also allows you to apply your desired color over it.

5. Lead Seal ‘n Stop Encapsulant

If you’re looking for an affordable way to cover up lead-based paint, you can try out the Lead Seal ‘n Stop Encapsulant.

This is a great lead-blocking paint that forms a barrier between harmful lead particles and the environment. It tightly seals the lead-painted surface without any leakage. You can apply the encapsulating paint on surfaces, including wood, stucco, metal, brick, fiberglass, and many more.

When the paint is applied, it dries to a white hue. If you make any mistake while painting, you can easily remove the paint using mild soap and warm water.

To get the most out of this paint, Dumond recommends you avoid applying this paint on surfaces prone to more heat and friction. That includes window sills and casings. The reason why you should avoid such areas is that the paint is prone to peeling and losing integrity.

Pros

• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• You can use it on different surfaces
• It is easy to remove
• Tightly seals lead-painted surfaces
• The paint is affordable

Cons

N/A

Product Specialty

Lead Seal ‘n Stop Encapsulant ensures a tight seal to protect the environment from the adverse effects of lead.

How To Choose Lead Encapsulating Paint?

Before purchasing any lead encapsulating paint, you’ll need to consider the following factors.

Color

Lead encapsulating paints are available in clear, white, and tinted. Some white paints are tintable, which means they allow you to add your desired colorant of the recommended amount. Adding a colorant beyond the recommended amount can void the warranty.

Amount

Depending on the area of the surface where you’ll apply paint, you’ll need to choose an amount of paint accordingly.

For example, if the label on the paint bucket states that one gallon of paint is required for 125 feet, and you need to cover 250 feet, you can purchase two gallons of paint. If you need to cover more than that, you can go for 5 gallons.

Addition Of A Bitter-Tasting Additive

If you have pets and children in your house, chances are that they will taste the encapsulating paint or the painted chippings. To prevent them from ingesting, you can look for a bitter-tasting additive in the paint. Most encapsulating paint manufacturers add Bitrex to the paint to discourage oral consumption.

Finish Type

The finish type of encapsulating paint varies. Some give a low-luster eggshell finish, while others give a vibrant glossy finish. Although all of them serve the same purpose of covering lead, the choice of finish type depends on personal preference.

Compatibility

Not all encapsulating paint work on all surfaces. For example, if you choose to apply paint on fiberglass and your purchased paint doesn’t work on it, you know that it’s disappointing.

Therefore, make sure to check the list of compatible surfaces before purchasing your desired encapsulating paint.  

How To Encapsulate Lead Based Paint?

To encapsulate lead paint, take a look at the following steps. But before you proceed, make sure to wear gloves and protective clothing.

1. Protect The Surrounding Objects

Turn off the HVAC system and seal any gaps and ducts using tape and plastic sheets. Also, transfer all your belongings to another room. For large objects that can’t be transferred, cover them properly with a plastic wrap. When covering, make sure to seal the objects in such a way so that lead particles can’t get into contact with them.

Lay plastic sheets to cover the floor. Close all doors and windows.

Note: Keep children, pets, and at-risk adults away from the worksite.

2. Prepare The Surface

Encapsulating paint works well on clean and dry surfaces, so you will need to prepare the surface. Use a good cleaner or a degreaser to remove any grease residue. For removing mildew, use bleach and water solution. If there is loose paint on an exterior surface, wash it using a pressure washer.

Once the surface is cleaned, let it air dry.

Note:  Encapsulating paint does not work on frictional surfaces, glossy surfaces, and badly deteriorated surfaces.

3. Do A Patch Test

Apply your desired encapsulating paint to a smaller area, preferably 6 x 6 inches. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Let the painted area dry completely.

4. Apply The Encapsulating Paint And Let It Dry

If the surface passes the patch test, apply paint to the rest of the surface. Make sure to apply paint evenly and maintain the recommended thickness.

Once the paint is applied, let it dry. It can take days or even a month for the surface to dry completely.

5. Clean All The Tools

Before the paint dries, clean the tools with a mild soap and warm water.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Encapsulating Lead Paint Work?

Encapsulating lead paint work as long as you apply it properly and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. It is also a safer and a cheaper option than lead paint removal.  

2. How Much Does It Cost To Encapsulate Lead Paint?

Unless you’re doing it by yourself, encapsulation can range between $800 and $1400 for homes measuring 1200 to 2000 square feet. Compared to lead paint removal, encapsulation is a considerably cheaper option.

3. Should You Sand Lead Paint?

Sanding or scraping lead paint can cause lead particles to spread in the air. Instead of using friction on lead paint, it is recommended you wipe down the surface using a warm, wet towel.

4. Is It Safe To Use A Heat Gun On Lead Paint?

It is not recommended that you use a heat gun for stripping lead paint as toxic fumes can be inhaled.

5. Does Lead Stay In The Body Forever?

When lead is exposed to the body, it gets absorbed into the bloodstream, bones, and tissues.

However, it doesn’t remain in the body permanently. It takes 25 days for lead to be excreted from the bloodstream, 40 days for soft tissue, and for lead to be excreted from the bones and teeth, it can take as long as a decade.

6. Can I Use Polyurethane Over Lead Paint?

It is possible to use polyurethane over lead paint, but the underlying risks of lead exposure still remains.

7. Did All Paint Used To Contain Lead?

Houses built before 1978 contain lead as it was typically present in paint manufactured during that time. Lead is known to speed up drying as well as resist corrosion. Although lead-based paint is banned afterwards, it can still be present under layers of newly-painted surfaces.

Final Word

The best lead encapsulating paint should give you and your family the utmost protection. Applying the paint to the already lead-painted surface properly can prevent the potential dangers of lead. You can tell that it is the safest way to cover up the culprit!

The above lead encapsulating paints are all well-researched, which is why they are bound to offer positive results. Even workers can use them instead of removing lead paint. Your safety is a priority, which is why we have shared our recommendations with you.

Hopefully, you’ve found your desired encapsulating paint. If you did, don’t forget to share this guide with the people around you!