Does it matter if I have insulation that contains asbestos?
Many homes and commercial properties have insulation that contains asbestos. After all, asbestos is well-known for its insulating and fire resistant properties. Before the health risks of asbestos exposure were publicized in the 1970s and 1980s, asbestos was often used throughout people’s homes and businesses. Now the government prohibits the use of asbestos-containing materials in areas where people will be exposed. Disposal procedures are also heavily regulated to protect people from being exposed to asbestos.
When it’s okay
However, many, if not most, still have insulation in their attics and walls that contains asbestos. In many cases, that’s perfectly fine, because you don’t come into contact with this insulation at all. As long as the asbestos fibers are left undisturbed, they won’t release into the air or be inhaled by people. So that’s not a big deal.
When it’s a problem
The issue arises when the time comes to remodel or renovate your home. If you’re not sure whether your insulation contains asbestos, it’s imperative that before you begin work, you call H2 Environmental Consulting Services at (800) 524-3578 for a complete environmental evaluation of your property. We’ll check every molecule of your home to determine whether and where asbestos and other common contaminants are present, then issue a full report.
Schedule your evaluation today
If you are going to move ahead with your renovations, enlist our expertise to not only detect asbestos, mold, fungus, lead, and other contaminants, but also to provide complete remediation services. No matter what contaminant is found on your property, we’ll develop a plan to safely and thoroughly remove all harmful materials. We have strict safety procedures to ensure exposure to harmful materials never occurs, and we follow all state and federal regulations precisely.
Where asbestos can be found
Insulation is a common place where insulation is often found, but that’s not the only place where it might be lurking in your home. Areas asbestos may be present include:
- 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
Why is it important to avoid exposure to asbestos?
You may be wondering, if asbestos is found in so many places, is exposure to asbestos really that big of a deal? Actually, it is. Asbestos exposure has been conclusively linked to many diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. These problems can take up to 30 years to develop, so it’s essential that you limit your exposure to asbestos as much as possible.
Ready?
Call the asbestos experts at H2 Environmental Consulting Services today to determine whether asbestos is present in your property before you even take out your hammer. Don’t risk exposing yourself and your family to harmful asbestos fibers. Call us at (800) 524-3578 today.
