How To Detect, Test, And Get Rid Of Asbestos In Your Home

Asbestos was used extensively in construction and other industries because of its fire-resistant properties. It wasn’t until many people had developed health problems from exposure to asbestos that its use was significantly curtailed. Although the use of asbestos is now considerably regulated, many homes still contain this hazardous material.

If you’re concerned that your house may contain asbestos, J & E Restoration Pros will tell you all you can do and not do.

What Is Asbestos?

As a naturally occurring fibrous mineral, asbestos has been used in various commercial and industrial applications for several years because of its many properties. The fire-resistant, insulation, and sound-absorbing effects were too attractive to ignore by the engineers of the time.

It is composed of long, thin fibers that can leech into the air if the asbestos-containing material is disturbed. When these tiny airborne particles are inhaled, they can get trapped in the lungs and remain there for a long time.

How is it hazardous to your health?

Our body’s inability to break down and expel asbestos fibers makes exposure dangerous. The longer these tiny threads stay in our bodies, the greater the risk of developing mesothelioma and causing a severe lung disease we call asbestosis.

Most health defects this hazardous material can cause appear after several years. Sometimes as many as 30 to 40 years, which is why it’s essential to know if your home contains asbestos and to take the necessary steps for removal.

What Are the Telltale Signs of Asbestos Presence?

Torn surfaces with a white powdery substance

Torn surfaces, especially if they release a white, fibrous powder, may signify the presence of asbestos. But don’t be too quick to assume that any surface material that looks like asbestos is asbestos. Call a professional asbestos removal company to take samples and test the materials in your home.

Abrasions

Material composed of asbestos may also show signs of wear and tear. If the surface is frayed and fibers are released when you disturb the material, you should immediately get it checked.

Water Damage

Water damage in your home can arise from numerous sources. But a distinct sign of asbestos-containing materials is if a white, powdery substance accompanies the damage.

Where Is Asbestos More Likely Found?

Several spots in your home can have asbestos lurking around. If your home was built before the 1980s, the chances of asbestos presence are much higher.

Here are some places you should be wary of:

Attic insulation

Renovating your attic is a project that many homeowners undertake. If your insulation contains this hazardous material, you may unintentionally expose yourself to asbestos.

Wall insulation

Especially in homes built before the 80s, wall insulation may also contain asbestos. Even if your property looks new, you can’t assume it’s newly built from scratch.

Floor tiles

While scraping your tiles, you notice little blue, green, or black fibers in the air. These could be asbestos fibers, and you should take extra care to avoid disturbing them.

Brake dust in the garage

Something you may never have considered a hazard is brake dust. If your car has asbestos brakes, the dust can be harmful if inhaled. Get it tested by experts before you start working on your vehicle in the garage.

How To Remove Asbestos If Found?

The foremost thing to understand here is that asbestos removal is not a do-it-yourself job. You need to call the professionals to take care of it. If you have found a material that looks like it may contain asbestos, the procedure will consist of the following steps:

Step 1.

Select a company that complies with all the laws and regulations for managing and removing asbestos.

Step 2.

Get a disposal manifest ensuring that the asbestos removed from your property is taken to an approved landfill site.

Step 3.

Asbestos repair and removal is a delicate process that qualified contractors should only undertake. As with any contractor, ask for references and examples of similar projects before hiring anyone.

Step 4.

Check the Better Business Bureau and online reviews for customer feedback on the company you’ve selected. Make sure they use the proper equipment and have the necessary experience to complete the job safely.

Step 5.

Once the company is qualified, check its liability and workman’s compensation policies. Don’t hesitate to inquire about a detailed estimate for the work to be done, including the removal and disposal of any asbestos-containing materials.

Step 6.

Before the contractor removes its isolation system, an industrial hygienist should take air samples to ensure that no asbestos fibers have leaked inadvertently.

Dos And Don’ts of Asbestos Removal And Detection

Dos:

• Keep your home safe by avoiding contact with any dangerous asbestos materials. Take every precaution not to damage any materials that may contain asbestos.
• If you’re unsure whether there’s asbestos in your home, contact your home inspector or real estate agent.
• Only hire trained professionals for asbestos handling and removal.
• Contact the relevant regulatory body in your area or state government if you’re contemplating a demolition.

Don’ts:

• Don’t sand, scrape, drill, or tamper with materials that might contain asbestos.
• Avoid sweeping, vacuuming, or dusting debris with the risk of asbestos.
• Don’t test for asbestos unless you’ve been adequately trained.
• Don’t remove asbestos unless it is impossible to repair or conceal, and there’s a high chance of exposure.
• Do not get rid of asbestos materials through traditional means of disposal.

Ending Note:

Now that it’s clear how to get asbestos out of your home, the next step is to call a professional. Always trust experts with the necessary experience and knowledge to get the asbestos out of your abode so that you and your loved ones can live worry-free.

J & E Restoration Pros, serving Lawrenceville, GA, are certified contractors in rebuilding and constructing new projects. After your home has suffered remediation for asbestos, you will need trusted restoration contractors to help you recover. Start your new claim today.

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