How to Know if You Need an Asbestos Inspection
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was widely used in construction before the 1980s. It's fire-resistant, durable, and cheap, making it a favorite among builders. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos inspections are therefore necessary to ensure that your property is free from this hazardous material. But how do you know if you need one? This article will discuss some signs that indicate that it's time to get an asbestos inspection.
The Building was Constructed before 1980:
The first and most obvious sign that you need an asbestos inspection is if your building was built before 1980. Asbestos was widely used in building materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, roofing, siding, and flooring until the 1980s when it was banned. If your building is an old one, it's highly likely that it contains asbestos. Therefore, it's important to hire an asbestos inspector to conduct a sample test to determine if your home contains asbestos.
You Have Damaged and Crumbing Materials:
Asbestos becomes dangerous when it's disturbed or damaged. If you notice that some of your building materials are falling apart or flaking, it's a sign that the asbestos fibers may be released into the air. This can happen in areas such as the basement, attic, or garage, where the materials are exposed to moisture and other environmental factors. If you suspect that your materials contain asbestos, it's important to get them inspected as soon as possible.
You're Planning on Renovating:
Home renovation entails disturbing your building materials, which means that asbestos fibers may be released into the air. This is because when asbestos fibers are disturbed, they become airborne and can be inhaled, which can cause serious health problems. Therefore, if you're planning to renovate your house, hiring an asbestos inspector is crucial to ensure that your building materials do not contain asbestos. The inspector will conduct a sample test, and if it's positive, they will guide you on how to remove the material safely.
You're Experiencing Respiratory Issues:
Respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath are some of the symptoms of asbestos exposure. If you or your family members are experiencing these symptoms, it's essential to get an asbestos inspection. The inspector will assess your home and determine if there are any asbestos-containing materials. If they find any, they will guide you on how to remove them safely to minimize exposure to these harmful fibers.
Contact a company like Asbestos Inspections Inc. DBA Capital Abatement for more information about asbestos inspections.
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