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September 2019

Letters on wooden blocks spelling FAQ

Asbestos Removal – Why Should I Hire a Professional?

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Hiring as an asbestos removal specialist isn’t only for your safety. It is also the law. It is illegal to remove and dispose of asbestos-containing materials without the proper licenses. Asbestos Abatement Services is a certified and licensed asbestos removal company. Below we will discuss asbestos, exposure, and the removal process.

Why is Asbestos Dangerous?

Asbestos has been used for centuries in all types of products, but it is used mostly in construction materials. Thee construction materials are what make up your home and commercial properties. Asbestos is fine until it begins to wear down or is disturbed through remodels. Once this happens, asbestos can easily float through the air and enter your lungs. Unfortunately, there are no immediate signs of asbestos exposure, and it can take decades before it rears its ugly head. Asbestos is known to cause mesothelioma, lung cancers, and severe respiratory problems that can all lead to death. You must never come into contact with asbestos.

How Do I Prevent Asbestos Exposure?

The easiest way to protect yourself from asbestos exposure is through an asbestos test. This test is completed on homes and businesses to determine if asbestos is present in construction materials. If they are, then you will need to have the asbestos removed. Asbestos removal is a very complicated process that involves special suits, respirators, and equipment to seal off areas and to contain the asbestos for transport and disposal. Certified asbestos removal companies take every precaution possible to ensure no one is exposed to asbestos and that the entire property is clear from its dangers.

If you own an older home or business, it is crucial to have it checked for asbestos. An asbestos test and safe removal can save the lives of you and your family.

September 27, 2019
Worker inspecting old insulation

Top 5 Areas Of Your Home That Could Contain Asbestos

By Asbestos in the homeNo Comments

The dangers of asbestos have been all over the news and in the media, but do you know where it could be lurking in your home? Did you know that asbestos fibers are small and cannot be seen, making them easily ingested? Did you know symptoms of asbestos exposure often don’t happen for decades? These are all very alarming facts. Asbestos-containing materials could be inside your home, and you would never know. While asbestos fibers are not widely used anymore, even some newer homes have been found to have asbestos. The only way to know for sure is to have your home tested by an asbestos professional. Below we will discuss the most common areas of your home that could contain asbestos.

Insulation

Insulation has been the number one place that we find asbestos. Insulation needs to be durable and heat resistant. These are two reasons asbestos fibers were used in insulation. It is easily bonded with other materials and is perfect for insulation.

Roofing and Tile

Shingles and tile are often found to have asbestos fibers. Your roof’s shingles are in the sun all day, meaning they need to be able to withstand the heat. Asbestos is known for its heat resistant capabilities. It is also very sturdy and meant to withstand wear and tear. This makes asbestos perfect for tile flooring and roofing.

Popcorn Ceilings and Textured Paint

Popcorn ceilings and textured paint were all the rage and was used in many homes. However, all popcorn ceilings have asbestos. Most textured paints that were used in older homes also contain asbestos.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper is common inside homes, and often times contains asbestos fibers. Asbestos fibers are not only perfect adhesives, it is also durable to ensure the wallpaper holds up over time.

Adhesives

Many types of glues and other adhesive have been known to contain asbestos. This was used on wallpaper, in caulking, and different types of adhesives.

Asbestos is not used in most products today, but if you live in an older home, you should take the time to have it tested for asbestos. This is for your safety and peace of mind.

September 19, 2019
Elderly man sitting on a couch coughing

Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure

By Asbestos Information, Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos exposure symptoms can be tricky. While exposure to asbestos eventually causes symptoms, it often doesn’t occur for decades after the exposure. Asbestos exposure symptoms oftentimes mimic that of other respiratory illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose. Many times symptoms do not occur for 20 or more years. While it may be challenging to diagnose, there are ways to determine if you have an asbestos-related illness. If your symptoms last all year, you may have an asbestos-related illness. Below we will discuss the main symptoms of asbestos exposure and the illnesses that accompany those symptoms. If you think you have been exposed to asbestos, see your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis is key to treatment.

The most common asbestos-related symptoms mimic those of allergies, sinuses, and colds. Below are the more common symptoms:
• Respiratory Illnesses
• Tightness of Chest
• Lung Disease
• Prolonged Dry Cough
• Itchy or Watery Eyes
• Shortness of Breath
• Weight Loss
• Chest Pain

As you can see, these symptoms are often related to other illnesses. You will need to have a battery of tests and bloodwork completed to determine if it is asbestos-related.

Severe Symptoms and Illnesses of Asbestos Exposure Include the Following:
• Mesothelioma
• Lung Cancer
• Fluid Buildup in the Abdomen, Neck, and Chest Cavity
• Finger Clubbing
• Nail Deformities
• Loss of Appetite
• Asbestosis
• Pleural Thickening

Asbestos exposure is hazardous and can cause cancer and even death. Asbestos fibers are so small that you do not realize you have been exposed. The fibers can easily be ingested or breathed in. If you live in an older home, have it tested for asbestos. If you have any of the above symptoms, see your doctor. It is crucial to find out if you have an asbestos-related illness. Most illnesses are treatable if detected early.

September 12, 2019
Washing machine and dryer

Household Items that Could Contain Asbestos

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Asbestos is known for being used in construction materials, but did you know it could also be used in ordinary household items? Surprisingly, asbestos fibers have been used in everything from appliances to children’s toys. Below we will discuss some items that could contain this dangerous minerals.

Household Appliances

Some appliances have been known to use asbestos fibers to prevent them from overheating or catching fire. Asbestos fibers are naturally heat resistant, meaning they can withstand high temperatures.
• Broilers
• Crock Pots
• Deep Fryers
• Ovens
• Dryers
• Popcorn Machines
• Dishwashers
• Toasters

While the above items are no longer made with asbestos fibers, it is best to be safe. If you have any older appliances, you may want to have them replaced and purchase a newer model.

Toys

It is alarming to know that some toys have been known to have small amounts of asbestos fibers and lead. Both can lead to exposure and poisoning. There have been reports of asbestos in toys as late as the early 2000s. If you have children, it is best to keep an eye on the products and toys you purchase for your children.
• Clay
• Crayons
• Finger Print Toys
• Sculpting Materials

Personal Use Items

In the past, some personal use items have been known to have asbestos. While they no longer contain asbestos any older items should be thrown away for your safety. Below are a few items to look out for!
• Heaters
• Electric Blankets
• Baby Powder
• Curling Irons

As you can see, there have been several types of items that once contained asbestos fibers. If you have any older items, it is best to throw them away. If you have been using older items and have severe respiratory symptoms, see a doctor and let them know you may have been exposed to asbestos.

September 6, 2019
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