>>Yes.  It is my understanding that heat sufficient to loosen the  paint
simultnaeously vaporizes the lead, at which point it goes flying  all 
over the
place.  There's also the possibility of burning the damn house  down 
with or
without you and your heirs and assigns in it.<<

So true for the high-temp dry heat methods commonly used. There are 
other methods.

Some facts that will refine your understanding:


-- Metallic lead vaporizes at about 1100F.

-- The lead oxide found in paint vaporizes between 900F. and 1100F.

-- Heavy buildup of old lead/linseed oil paint softens enough to remove 
effectively at about 200F.

-- Water vaporizes at 212F.

-- There is little chance of burning the house down at 200-212F.

-- Fine particles of lead-containing paint dust can be effective managed 
using well defined lead-safe ops methods such as "working wet."


Steam Paint Removal is a damp, low-temp, method that actually works. 
Learn more:

http://historichomeworks.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=133


John
by steam and heat we strip it neat

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