Asbestos
We can help you identify risks from asbestos-containing materials and create a remediation plan to eliminate them quickly & safely
Asbestos is a natural occurring mineral fiber that has excellent fire-retardant and insulating properties and was used in construction for many years. However, it has been studied and determined to be a carcinogen that is harmful to humans. Unfortunately, this means that many homes, businesses, and schools that were built before the danger was discovered contain this harmful substance. H2 Environmental Consulting Services is your asbestos specialist. We can help you determine whether there is asbestos in your residence or business and work to safely correct the problem.
Where Asbestos can be Found
Buildings have many areas where Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM) may be found, including:- Insulation (in homes built between 1930 and 1950)
- Textured paint used on ceilings and walls
- Roofing shingles and sealants
- Vinyl flooring and adhesives
- Pipes in older homes may be coated with it or covered by tape or blankets made with it
- Gaskets in coal and oil furnaces
- Sprayed-on ceiling material used for acoustics
- Wire insulation or stovetop pads in older homes
- Exhaust flues and older HVAC ducting
Health Problems Associated with Asbestos
There are several serious diseases that can be caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestosis is a lung disease that is non-cancerous but causes scarring on the tissues of the lungs which limits the ability of oxygen to enter the bloodstream. Mesothelioma is cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, chest, and heart that often shows up many years after exposure to asbestos. Lung Cancer is the cause of most asbestos-related deaths and is often contracted by people who have worked in the production of ACM. These problems often take up to 30 years to develop.
What to do if You Suspect Asbestos is in Your Residence or Business
The best thing one can do is to leave suspected material alone if it is in good condition. Touching it could cause damage that releases the asbestos fibers. It is also important to inspect it for damage. If the material is damaged or if you plan to do renovations or remodeling that would disturb it, it must be handled by professionals. In fact, even if you don’t suspect the building materials in your home, if your home was built between 1940 and 1975 it is important to have it tested just to be on the safe side.
Contact H2 Environmental Consulting Services today or locate your local H2 partner office for service in your area to have your residence or building inspected for signs of asbestos if you have concerns that there are Asbestos Containing Materials in your building or if you are considering remodeling.