Archive for June 2015 | Monthly archive page
Do you live in a home that was built prior to 1980? Are you afraid that it might contain asbestos? Then you’re probably right. Many older buildings were made with asbestos containing materials. This naturally occurring mineral was very popular because of its fire-resistant and insulating properties. From floor and ceiling tiles to cement, adhesives, and wallboard, thousands of products contained asbestos. Thus, it’s important to have your home inspected and take precautions against asbestos exposure.
How to Identify Asbestos Materials
The first step is to determine whether or not your house contains asbestos. A visual inspection won’t reveal that. The only way to find out is to have a trained asbestos inspector check your home. This procedure is particularly important during home remodeling projects, water or fire damage, demolition and other operations that may disturb asbestos.
This material is made up of tiny fibers that can easily become airborne when damaged or disturbed. If you’re planning to make changes to your home, these fibers can enter the air. From here, they will make their way into your body, causing scarring and inflammation. This can lead to asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer and other deadly diseases. By hiring an accredited asbestos professional, you can prevent these problems and keep your loved ones safe.
What to Do If Your Home Contains Asbestos
Asbestos containing materials that are in good condition don’t pose any health risks. However, if you want to make repairs or remodel your home, they may release fibers in the air. To prevent asbestos exposure, hire an asbestos removal contractor. He will either seal or cover the area to keep the fibers from spreading around your house. Asbestos removal is usually required only when making major changes to the building.
Before seeking professional help, keep activities to a minimum in the affected areas. Don’t scrape, saw, sand, or drill holes in the walls. Avoid direct contact with asbestos-containing materials. If the floor needs replacing, add new floor covering over it. Use a wet mop to clean the areas that may contain asbestos. Do not vacuum! Regular vacuum cleaners can disturb asbestos fibers and spread them in the air.
Why Hire an Asbestos Professional?
Asbestos removal is a complex process that requires special equipment and training. Interventions in damaged areas often have to follow strict procedures. Homeowners can hire an asbestos inspector or an asbestos contractor for this purpose. The inspector will check your property and take samples for testing. He will also make sure the contractor has followed proper procedures.
Homeowners are not required by law to hire a certified professional to inspect or remove asbestos. However, this doesn’t mean you should skip this step. A trained professional has the skills and knowledge needed to handle this job and keep your home safe.
If possible, hire a company that provides both asbestos inspection and removal. This way, you’ll avoid a conflict of interest. Ask them to provide proof of training and accreditation. After asbestos removal, call an independent air testing contractor to check air quality in your home and assure there are no fibers left.
For advice regarding mold remediation or water damage repair, visit: http://orange-restoration.com/