If you hear about asbestos nowadays, you probably hear about the health risks. It is directly connected to mesothelioma and different cancers. When a person breathes in the metallic fibers, it can lead to serious health risks.
How do you know if you have any risk for asbestos exposure in your home?
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is naturally occurring. There are deposits throughout the United States and around the world. The last asbestos mine closed in 2002, but it was prominent throughout the century. Often, it is found near natural vermiculite and talc. Sometimes, talc will become contaminated with asbestos. Once scientists discovered the dangers of using asbestos, they ceased the use. However, this was not before it was used in a variety of buildings, homes and shipyards.
Asbestos is a chemical and flame-resistant material. It was often used in insulation, roof shingles and more. It was also a great insulator for boilers, ovens and steam engines.
Do You Have Asbestos in Your Home?
Contractors who built homes before 1980 most likely used asbestos. After all, it was a heat-resistant and chemical resistant material that was also affordable. If you have an older home, this does not necessarily mean you have asbestos. They may not have used asbestos or it may have already been dealt with by previous owners. The only way to know for sure is through an inspection. To receive an inspection, you need to contact a licensed asbestos inspector. He or she can safely take samples to analyze. You cannot see asbestos through a visual inspection.
Should You Worry About Asbestos?
If you have an older home and you plan to do any remodeling, then you need to worry about asbestos. Unless you have already had an asbestos inspection and know that your home is clean, you do need to worry about whether asbestos was used in your home. If you do not disturb the asbestos, then you should not have to worry about health issues. However, it is always a safe idea to have your home inspected by an asbestos contractor before you perform any renovations.
Asbestos can be a serious health risk. While the use of asbestos has been banned in modern buildings, there are still many older buildings that use asbestos. To find out if you need to have your asbestos removed or sealed off, contact an asbestos contractor, like from Nielsen Environmental, as soon as possible.