Asbestos is a toxic substance that was commonly used in the construction of homes, schools, and office buildings throughout the early part of the 20th century. Today, asbestos materials are not allowed in new construction buildings, and it is highly recommended that any buildings that still do have asbestos within them have it removed by professionals and replaced with safe materials. This is because asbestos exposure can eventually lead to a variety of chronic respiratory ailments, and it can also lead to mesothelioma, which is a type of cancer.
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Is Asbestos In Your Home?
The only way that you will know if asbestos is in your home is if you know what year the house was built and if you have professionals come in to inspect the home. For example, homes that were constructed between 1930 and 1950 are likely to have asbestos in the insulation throughout the house. If you have popcorn ceilings and the home was built in the early to middle part of the 20th century, you most likely are living in a building that has asbestos.
If Asbestos In Your Home is In Good Condition:
If your home is inspected or you are able to determine on your own that your property definitely contains materials that have asbestos within them, the most important thing to do is to not panic. Instead, carefully examine the areas of your home where asbestos is present. As long as the asbestos is in good condition, and the fibres themselves are not becoming airborne, you will be safe. You can leave the asbestos alone and everyone will be perfectly fine, as long as no damage is brought upon the areas of your home that contain asbestos.
If the Asbestos Is Damaged:
Regularly check the areas of your home that contain asbestos. Without touching them, make sure that everything is intact. If you notice any type of damage, such as tears, water damage, holes, or abrasions, it is possible that asbestos fibres are being released into your home. Even hitting the materials or exposing them to vibrations can cause the fibres to come loose. Call a professional asbestos removal contractor to come in and remove it safely.
The Problem with Asbestos Fibres
Asbestos does not pose a health risk unless its fibres break away and become airborne. Once they are inhaled, they get into the lungs, and that is when they begin to wreak havoc on human health. Again, if you find that asbestos is in your home and is putting your family in danger, contact an asbestos inspection company who can examine your home and determine what to do next to keep your entire family safe. Do not handle the asbestos on your own, as this is very dangerous. Instead, avoid touching it and going near it.
Asbestos materials are, unfortunately, still quite common in a variety of buildings. If you are in doubt, call in the professionals to examine your home and determine if asbestos is present and if it is posing any threat to your family.
