Asbestos is a toxic mineral that was commonly used in building materials until it was banned in 1988. If you live in an older home, some of the building materials may contain asbestos that can filter into the air and cause serious health problems. As you consider asbestos removal, you will want to know these frequently asked questions about the materials and the potential hazards it presents.

4 FAQs About Asbestos

What building materials contain it?

If your home was built prior to 1988, asbestos fibers may be found in virtually every component of the structure. These may include asphalt flooring, brick mortar, ductwork, insulation, plumbing pipes, roof shingles, stucco, and window glazing. The best way to find out if your home contains asbestos fibers is to have a professional abatement company take samples of various structural materials and send them to a lab for testing. If they come back positive, you should consult with a professional about asbestos removal before it adversely affects your health.

Why is it dangerous?

Asbestos fibers may harm your health if you inhale them, since they have been linked to lung cancer and serious respiratory illnesses. However, it does not necessarily present issues when left undisturbed and isn’t filtered into the air where you or your family could breathe it. If your home incurs damage, such as roof punctures, or if you demolish a wall during renovations, you might be at an increased risk of overexposure. If you are considering major home renovations and you believe that some materials could contain this chemical, consult with a professional about best practices or schedule them to perform asbestos removal.

What does removal entail?

Professional asbestos removal companies are fully trained, licensed, and certified. To prevent the spread of fibers, they’ll secure the affected area with plastic sheeting. They may also apply moisture to affected sites to minimize fiber counts and use a HEPA filter to remove impurities from the air. They’ll double bag any infected materials before disposing of them in designated areas away from your property. Depending on the amount present in your home, you may have to arrange to lodge outside of your home until the removal is complete. Performing this service may seem costly, but it will ensure that your home is a safe and healthy environment for everyone. 

Keep your home safe and healthy with asbestos removal from Priority 1 Construction Service. They have over two decades of experience with insulation removal, mold abatement, and fireproofing for clients throughout Cincinnati. Call (513) 922-0203 to request a quote and book an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about their insulation products and services.