I have an old wooden door from a very old home that I want to restore somewhat and use for decor in my home. It looks really cool to me right now but the paint is chipping all over-which I am sure that means its lead based-right? Can I paint a clear coat over it to protect my children again lead poisoning or what?
the best thing to do is strip the paint off and repaint it. the lead can leach through the clear coat. also, the clearcoat would stick to the chipping paint, and probably start chipping itself.
Chipped paint doesn’t necessarily mean lead. If the paint is from 1978 or earlier, have it tested. If it is lead, you really should have the paint stripped before repainting. In any event, painting over chipped paint does not not make for a very good coating.
Be well.