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Asbestos Information

Contractor installing tile

Construction Products that Might Contain Asbestos

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

It is frightening to think that construction products could still contain asbestos. Sadly, this is the case in the United States and many other countries. Older buildings and hmes likely do contain asbestos, and some newer buildings and homes do as well. How do you know? This is a question we get all the time. You can only determine if a structure contains asbestos by completed an asbestos test and inspection. Below Asbestos Abatement Services will discuss the many construction products that have been known to contain asbestos.

Roofing

Asbestos is known to be fire-resistant and very durable. This alone made it perfect for roofing products. Asbestos is also very affordable. It was the best fiber to use for roofing until it was determined that asbestos was dangerous to your health.

Tile

Tile needs to be tough, as it is walked on daily. Asbestos has been used in tile for decades because of how strong it is. Cheap costs and long-lasting was the main selling point for asbestos use in tile.

Insulation

Insulation is the most commonly used construction item that is known to contain asbestos. Insulation needed to be fire-retardant, strong, and affordable. Asbestos ticked off the list as being the perfect solution, that is until people began to get sick from it.

Wallpaper Adhesives

Wallpaper adhesives needed to last for a long time and be affordable. Asbestos was the solution, and it worked great until people became ill.

Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings were all the rage and the easiest and most cost-effective way to construct a popcorn ceiling was using asbestos fibers. Today, we have different textures to make the popcorn ceiling textured look. If you have popcorn ceilings, it is important to have them checked for asbestos.
Above are the top products that used asbestos as part of their make-up. Asbestos testing and inspections are important because you cannot tell by looking at a product if it contains asbestos. If you own a property, you should have it tested by a certified asbestos inspector. It can give you peace of mind.

Exterior and front lawn of a home

Asbestos Removal – The Process

By Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Asbestos removal always raises a ton of questions. People are terrified of asbestos and even more so of the asbestos removal process. Asbestos Abatement Services is going to discuss the important parts of asbestos removal and what you should expect! Below we will get into the process and how you can help!

Asbestos testing and inspection

Asbestos test and inspections are a regular part of the asbestos removal process. Your asbestos removal expert will want to check the entire property to make sure they know where the asbestos is located. This helps them to be prepared and to have a plan of how they will handle your asbestos removal. Each property has unique problems and concerns that must be thought of before the actual removal takes place.

You must leave the premises

Before your asbestos removal specialist begins their asbestos removal process, they will ask that everyone leaves the property. This is for your safety. Asbestos is highly dangerous and can travel through the air. If you are in the vicinity, it is possible that you may be exposed to asbestos. Once the asbestos has been completely removed, they will allow you back on the premises. This process could take several days. It depends on how much asbestos is inside the property.

Asbestos removal

During the asbestos removal process, the professionals will seal off different areas. They will wear specialized suits and respirators to protect themselves from the asbestos fibers. Asbestos fibers are very tiny and can cling to regular clothing are move with the air. Your asbestos removal professionals will also have the equipment to secure the asbestos so that they can dispose of it. Asbestos disposal requires a license that only certified asbestos removal professionals have. Never try to remove asbestos, as you can be fined and may end up exposed to asbestos. The process may take several days, as removing the asbestos must be done in a secure fashion. Once completed, they will ensure all asbestos has been removed. After, you will be allowed back into your property.
Asbestos removal is a long process, but the end result is worth it. If your home or business has not been checked for asbestos, do it now! A simple test could save the life of you and everyone around you!

Bedridden elderly man at home with his two children

Asbestos Illnesses – The Truth

By Asbestos Information, Asbestos Related Illness InfoNo Comments

Asbestos is known to cause severe illnesses. These types of illnesses can range from respiratory problems to several types of cancer. Asbestos has been used in products for thousands of years. It was first used in pottery and textiles and then construction materials. Asbestos was used in homes, buildings, and even automobiles because of it being strong, cost-effective, and fire-resistant. People considered asbestos to be a miracle fiber. Years later it was determined that people were becoming ill from asbestos exposure. Asbestos enters the body through your airway and then sits dormant in your body for years. It took years to identify the root cause of illness because of how long it takes to show symptoms. Once it was determined to cause severe illnesses, laws and regulations were passed to help keep people safe. However, the damage was done for many, and a lot of homes and buildings still contain asbestos.

What types of diseases are triggered by asbestos exposure?

Asbestos can cause several types of illnesses. Some of the more common illnesses involve respiratory problems. Asbestos is highly dangerous, and many illnesses can stem from it. Below we will discuss a few different types of illnesses that are most commonly caused by asbestos.

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a  form of lung disease that is caused by inhaling these mineral fibers. It causes severe fibrosis and can lead to mesothelioma. With asbestosis, you experience severe breathing problems, as well as, other respiratory issues. Asbestosis must be diagnosed and treated by a doctor, get the facts and learn how to avoid this illness.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is only caused by asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma can affect your heart, lungs, chest cavity, and stomach. It is challenging to treat and usually results in death. Mesothelioma causes fluid to build up. It can cause breathing trouble, heart problems, and severe stomach issues. Mesothelioma is very dangerous.

Lung Cancer

Asbestos exposure has been notorious for causing lung cancer. Lung cancer can result in dangerous breathing issues and spreading of cancer cells to other parts of the body.

Respiratory Illnesses

Asbestos fibers are notorious for causing respiratory problems. Asbestos is usually inhaled and leads to the lungs, causing breathing issues. Asbestos exposure can cause coughing, COPD, lung and breathing disorders.

Skyscrapers viewed from the ground

Asbestos and Commercial Buildings

By Asbestos InformationNo Comments

When it comes to commercial buildings, you run the risk of having asbestos. Asbestos has been used for thousands of years, and unfortunately, it is still being used today. Asbestos fibers are highly hazardous to your health, causing illnesses such as respiratory problems, cancer, and even death. Asbestos-containing materials are very common in older and some newer commercial buildings. The threat of this substance increases the older the building is. If you own an older commercial building, it is crucial to have a test completed. An asbestos test and inspection should be completed for the safety of you, your employees, and clients. Asbestos in commercial buildings can easily spread throughout the property once it begins to break down.

What should I do if my building hasn’t been tested for asbestos?

The first thing you should do is contact a certified asbestos removal company. They will answer any questions you have and schedule your asbestos inspection. Asbestos inspections are thorough and should only be completed by accredited asbestos professionals.

What happens if I have asbestos in my commercial building?

If the assessment comes back that you do have asbestos-containing materials, the asbestos professionals will come up with a plan of action. This plan of action will contain dates for your asbestos removal. They will also ask that the business is vacant because asbestos can float through the air.

How long will asbestos removal take?

It depends on how much asbestos-containing materials are inside your commercial building. It will also be determined by how large your building is. The removal process must be done slowly, as asbestos is highly hazardous. They will wear special suits and have the equipment to contain the asbestos as it is removed. They also have a licensed that are required to dispose of the asbestos.
Once the asbestos has been removed from your commercial building, they will check the area one more time to ensure all asbestos has been removed. After this, the asbestos professionals will allow you to re-enter your commercial building, knowing that the area is free from asbestos and that everyone is safe.

Pile of asbestos shingles on the ground

Asbestos- Why is it Considered a Silent Killer?

By Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Asbestos-related illnesses kill thousands of people each year. Asbestos has been silently killing people for decades. People walking around do not even know they have an asbestos-related illness. Once exposed, asbestos stays dormant in the body, for years. It can stay dormant for 10 to even 80 years, then begin to wreak havoc on the body. Asbestos has been used in construction materials for decades until it was recently found to be dangerous to people. Sadly, some construction materials still contain trace amounts of asbestos.

Asbestos can cause major illnesses. Many asbestos-related illnesses mimic those of allergies or the common cold. However, asbestos exposure also causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and even death. It is very difficult to diagnose asbestos-related illnesses and can take a lot of medical tests to identify.

Asbestos-exposure is still happening in the United States. Many homes still have asbestos-containing materials. The only way to know if your home contains asbestos is through extensive testing. These tests are only completed by certified asbestos abatement professionals, like Asbestos Abatement Services. The inspection and test are comprehensive and will determine if your home contains asbestos. If your home does have asbestos, it will need to be removed as soon as possible.

Asbestos fibers aren’t visible. They are very tiny and are part of a material, like insulation. Asbestos fibers were meant to make products more durable and heat resistant. This is what makes asbestos so dangerous. You cannot see the threat, you can only feel it years later when you become ill.

If you are unsure if your home does contain asbestos, it is crucial to have it checked by a certified professional. Asbestos-related illnesses are very severe and can cause a lifetime of illnesses. Play it safe and have a check completed on your home, it will be one of the best decisions you ever make!

Asbestos wall boards at a demolition site

When Does Asbestos Become Dangerous

By Asbestos InformationNo Comments

All asbestos is dangerous, but when does it become hazardous to your health? Asbestos Abatement Services has all the answers to your asbestos questions. Below we will discuss friable and non-friable asbestos, asbestos home testing, and the asbestos abatement process.

Friable and Non-Friable Asbestos

What exactly does friable mean? When it comes to asbestos, friable means the fibers have been exposed, making the asbestos very dangerous. If you have friable asbestos, you should leave the premises immediately and have an asbestos abatement company remove the asbestos. Friable asbestos is the most dangerous, as it has already broken down and can move throughout your home. Asbestos can travel on clothing and through air ducts. Non-friable asbestos means the asbestos-containing materials are still in great shape. This means you may be safe now, but if the item is damaged, you could become exposed. If you have non-friable asbestos, it is recommended you remove it as soon as possible, as it is still a hazard.

Asbestos Home Testing

Asbestos home tests are the only way to determine if your home contains materials that are composed of this mineral. This test is only completed by a certified asbestos abatement professional, such as Asbestos Abatement Services. This test is a thorough inspection of your home where sampled are taken. Once tested, you will know if your home is free from asbestos. If you do have asbestos, the certified asbestos abatement professional will discuss options with you.

Asbestos Abatement Process

The process of asbestos abatement is very time-consuming. It is important that all asbestos fibers are completely removed from the home before you return. Asbestos abatement professionals have special tools, equipment, and suits to contain the asbestos and remove it safely. During asbestos abatement, you will need to leave your home. This is for your safety, as asbestos fibers are tiny and cannot be seen. Once completed, your home will be checked once more to ensure the asbestos has been fully removed. Afterward, you will be allowed to enter your home and have the peace of mind that your home is asbestos free.

Worker installing insulation in an attic

Roofing, Insulation, and the Dangers of Asbestos

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

People are becoming more aware of asbestos as it becomes more popular in the media. They are beginning to understand that asbestos exposure is bad and that it can cause cancer. Most people do not believe their homes have asbestos-containing materials inside or out. The truth is, many homes in the United States still have asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos was commonly used in insulation for homes and businesses. Asbestos was perfect for insulation, as it was strong, heat-resistant, and affordable. It also was a great insulator. When remodels are completed, the insulation is not normally touched, which means your remodeled home, could still have hazardous fibers inside the insulation. This mineral was also commonly used in roofing. Roofing is needed to withstand the elements, such as the sun or snow. It is also needed to be strong and long lasting. Once again, asbestos was sent to the rescue and was used in most roofing materials. If your older home has not had a new roof, it likely has asbestos.

How do I Know if my home has asbestos-containing insulation or roofing materials?

The only way to now for sure is through a certified asbestos abatement contractor. They can inspect your home or business and conduct a test to find asbestos. If your roofing or insulation does contain asbestos, they will be able to find it and let you know what the next steps should be. Never try to find asbestos. You cannot see asbestos, as it is a tiny fiber that was mixed into the materials.

Do I need to have the roofing or insulation removed if it contains asbestos?

Even though the asbestos is inside your walls or on the exterior of your home, it is still a danger. Asbestos is tiny and can travel throughout the air and expose those in its path. Any asbestos-containing materials that are on your property should be removed by a certified and licensed asbestos abatement contractor. Your asbestos abatement contractor will discuss options with you and begin the abatement process as soon as possible.

Office building and parking lot

Asbestos in Older Buildings

By Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Most older buildings have asbestos-containing materials. The reality is, most people do not know this. Older commercial buildings were built using asbestos, as it was durable, cost-effective, and could withstand heat. This made it the perfect product for large building construction. If you do own a building, there is only one way to know for sure if it contains this dangerous material. Testing can be completed by a certified abatement professional. They will test your building and let you know the results as soon as possible. Check out an asbestos timeline to get a general idea of when it was used, how it became regulated and to what extent.

What if my building contains asbestos?

Asbestos could affect your entire business. Exposure could happen to you, your clients, and your employees. Asbestos is a small fiber and it can easily move from room to room on clothing or through the HVAC vents. If there is asbestos inside your older building, it will need to be removed by a professional. You should never try to remove asbestos from your building. As we said above, it can easily move throughout the building and the likelihood that you are able to remove it all is about zero. Professional asbestos abatement contractors use tools, equipment, and suits to ensure asbestos is safely removed.

What happens during asbestos removal?

Unfortunately, your business will need to be vacated for a small amount of time. This is needed to ensure the safe and complete removal of asbestos. The area will be completely closed off and asbestos abatement contractors will close off areas where the removal will start. Equipped with their suits and equipment they will begin removal processes. This process is quite extensive, as they are removing a dangerous mineral from your building. Once the asbestos has been removed, another asbestos inspection will be completed. When that inspection comes back as clear, you will be allowed to enter your business once again.

Lab tech inserting sample into test tube

Asbestos Testing and Your Home

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Asbestos has been around for centuries, but it wasn’t until the last few decades that people realized it was a danger. Asbestos was perfect for construction materials, as it was very durable and affordable. It could withstand the heat and not crack under pressure. It was used in everything from insulation to textured walls and roofing. We now hear about asbestos in the news, because it is so hazardous to your health, but do properties still contain asbestos?

Is asbestos still used?

Asbestos is not supposed to be used in any construction materials in the United States. There have been some instances where trace amounts of asbestos were found. Even if you have a somewhat newer home, it could still have asbestos-containing materials. If your home is older, it likely has asbestos somewhere inside or even outside. Asbestos was very popular for insulation and popcorn ceilings.

How do I Know if my home contains asbestos?

There is no way to see asbestos, as it looks like any normal material. The only way to know for sure is to have an asbestos test completed on your home. An asbestos test is performed by a certified asbestos abatement professional. They will do a thorough inspection of your home and take samples for lab tests. These tests are very accurate. If your home does contain asbestos, then you will need to have it removed. Asbestos exposure is a real danger and can lead to cancers and even death.

Can I Remove Asbestos?

NO! Asbestos exposure results in illnesses. Some are not as severe as others, but all asbestos-related illnesses make you very sick. You should never attempt to remove asbestos yourself. Asbestos fibers are very small and can be inhaled. You can track them through the home on your clothing, or it can float through your vents. Asbestos abatement professionals use special equipment, suits, and tools to ensure asbestos fibers do not move to different areas. You also need special licenses to dispose of asbestos.

Remodels and Asbestos – A Deadly Duo

By Asbestos in the home, Asbestos InformationNo Comments

Remodels can be an exciting time, but they can also be dangerous. You are finally able to turn your living space into everything you ever dreamed. One thing we are sure you didn’t think of or dream about, was asbestos and asbestos exposure. This very hazardous substance could be hiding in plain sight. Your home could have asbestos in every room. Asbestos-containing materials were used for decades in the construction of homes. Is your home older? If the home is not newly built, there are chances your home could contain asbestos and even lead!

What Should You Do?

The answer is simple, call a certified asbestos abatement professional. Test before you remodel even the smallest remodel or renovation, it is important that you have the home checked out. Asbestos testing and inspections are simple and affordable. Asbestos-containing materials can cause major health problems. Below are a few areas that could contain asbestos:

  • Tiles
  • Roofing
  • Flooring
  • Insulation
  • Textured Walls
  • Popcorn Ceilings
  • Adhesives
  • Wallpaper

As you can see, asbestos could be anywhere inside your home. For safety purposes, call a professional such as Asbestos Abatement Services. They will be able to tell you if there is asbestos. If the home does contain asbestos, they will walk you through the removal process.

Never Remove Asbestos

It is very important to never try and remove asbestos yourself. If there is asbestos in your home, the remodel can wait. Asbestos exposure is known as the silent killer. It can stay in your system for years before it makes you sick. No one knows exactly when they were exposed to asbestos. The mineral is tiny and is usually inhaled. Asbestos abatement professionals have suits and equipment to remove the asbestos. They also have the proper licensing to ensure disposal is completed in a legal manner.