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Understanding asbestos is an important part of protecting your family. Basic knowledge of asbestos can help you make more informed decisions in regards to asbestos and asbestos exposure. Below, Asbestos Abatement Services will give you a rundown of the definition of asbestos, why it is dangerous, and how to prevent exposure to the dangerous fiber.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fiber that is found in the earth, which is why many miners have asbestos-related illnesses. There are six forms of asbestos, and each is highly dangerous to your health. The six types are:
• Actinolite
• Anthophyllite
• Tremolite
• Crocidolite
• Amosite
• Chrysotile

Asbestos fibers were used in textiles, pottery, and, more recently, construction materials. Asbestos has been used for centuries and was not a concern until the 1980s.

Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?

Asbestos was mixed into materials to make the materials fire-resistant, more durable, and flexible. It was believed to be one of the better fibers to mix into materials until it was realized that asbestos is actually very hazardous to your health. Asbestos exposure occurs when materials break down, causing the asbestos fibers to release into the air, where it enters your body through your mouth and nose. Once in your system, it latches onto your lungs, stomach, and even heart, where it slowly begins to cause damage to your body. Regrettably, there is no way to know if you have been exposed until you begin to see symptoms, which are usually respiratory illnesses, including cancers like mesothelioma.

This is what makes asbestos so hazardous. It is not visible and can only be found through laboratory testing.

Where Could Asbestos Be On My Property?

Asbestos could be in many materials that were used to build your home. The most common include:
• Adhesives
• Insulation
• Drywall
• Wallpaper
• Roofing
• Tile
• Flooring


As you can see, asbestos could be luring throughout your property. It is best to have your residential home tested for asbestos, as it is not fully banned in the United States, meaning even newly built homes could contain asbestos. Asbestos testing can be completed by a certified asbestos abatement professional, who will help you with any asbestos removal services.

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