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.
