Painting...can I help out?

[teenyweeny]

We're planning on painting the whole house, I'd like to lend a hand, is it safe to paint in the 3rd trimester? I was going to get a mask....does anyone know if there are any "rules"?

modern paints aren't much of a danger- but you should be careful if you'll be stripping down to old paints, which may have lead in them.

my only worry would be getting knackered! no ladders, no over-stretching, and take regular breaks!

If you're painting new paints it really shouldn't be an issue, just try (for your own comfort more than anything) to make sure the room is well ventilated. You're more likely to get light-headed from over exertion than paint fumes.

As for getting a mask - the only mask that will make a difference is a rubber sealed mask with a solvent adaptor - a standard dust mask will only get in your way

I've got 3 weeks to go til babs' due date and have been helping paint the walls (water-based, fume-free paint)in our house. Have been feeling full of beans (I think it's the nesting instinct gone mad)so I've felt fine doing it, but made sure not to over exert myself.
However, if I didn't have the energy to paint, I'd sit & supervise, eating biscuits and helpfully pointing out 'You've missed a bit, dear'

I have concerns about the 30ft ladder you may have to climb!

I'm very stubben so painted my kitchen sitting on worktops etc when I was about 8months, it just had to be done. Did make me tired but looked good!