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Most people understand asbestos exposure is something that should be avoided, but how much do you really know about this naturally occurring mineral? As specialists in asbestos testing and removal, the professionals at Astech in Bridgeport, CT, often encounter homeowners who don’t really understand what asbestos is. That’s why they’ve compiled this list of little-known facts about the fiber-like mineral.

5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Asbestos

1. Asbestos Is All Around You

Asbestos refers to multiple fibrous minerals often mined from the earth. The most common type of asbestos is chrysotile, mined in Canada for its resistance and durability when exposed to heat. It is commonly used in building materials, fabrics, and automobiles.

2. It Is Very Flexible

asbestos testingAsbestos is the only mineral flexible enough to be woven into cloth. It was commonly used in textiles during the 1920s up until the 1980s, but health concerns saw it replaced by other insulating fibers.

3. It Is Dangerous When Inhaled

Asbestos produces dust, which releases its fibers into the air. Because those fibers are so durable, they can become lodged in the lungs and go unnoticed for more than 50 years before health symptoms begin to develop.

4. It Wasn’t Regulated Until the 1980s

Regulations were imposed in 1986 in America that banned the import, supply, and sale of products containing certain forms of asbestos. More regulations were imposed in 1999, and today, asbestos is not commonly used in the manufacturing of homes.

5. Your Home Could Contain Asbestos

Many houses were manufactured with products that contained asbestos until the 1990s. Asbestos in homes is commonly found in pipes, ceilings, walls, and insulation. Untouched, it poses no danger, but when the dust is stirred, it poses a significant health risk. Only experienced professionals should perform asbestos testing and removal.

Astech offers asbestos testing and removal services to the residents of Bridgeport, Fairfield, Stamford, Norwalk, Greenwich, Westport, and Danbury. To schedule a consultation, call (203) 335-0502.

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