How To Detect Asbestos In Homes
Although Asbestos has not been used in construction over the past few decades, its usage for many years means that it is still present in buildings. This mineral was popular because it is resistant to chemicals and heat. Because of that, there is a significant amount that is still stored in various buildings. That is the reason everyone has to know the importance of detecting asbestos in homes and other structures. Let us look at a few facts you may want to know about it and how to detect it in a building.
Various Types of Asbestos
There isn’t much difference between white, brown, and blue asbestos. However, the white type has curly fibers that are not easy to separate. The white to grey colored fibers intertwine to form a complex structure. The brown type is mostly found in sprayed insulation materials while the blue type is considered the most dangerous and carcinogenic of the three.
Exposure to these materials affects the body in various ways too. For example, the various types of asbestos can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Because of that, it is important to protect yourself from these materials, and that is the reason you should start by knowing how to identify them.
How to Identify Asbestos
Houses that were constructed before the 1980s are more likely to have asbestos than those that were built more recently. If a house has a steel frame or is installed with boilers with thermal insulation, the risk is higher too. Although it may be difficult to identify the real location of this mineral, you can always contact a certified professional analyst to do it. The analyst must be approved by the National Association of Testing Authorities too. However, you need to know that asbestos can only be dangerous when it emits fibers. If it is intact, you may want to leave it in place.
Where to Look for It
Corrugated cement roofs and exterior cement cladding that were constructed before the 1980s are the main sources of asbestos in homes. The insulation used in heaters and stoves have also been tested and proven to contain high amounts of this substance. Loosely-bound asbestos can also be found in carpet underlay products and ceiling insulations. If you are not sure about the safety in your building, call a professional immediately to carry out tests. You may also want to check the date of manufacture of some of the appliances that you use at home to be sure that they contain no asbestos.
Removing or maintaining asbestos cement from your house is one of the immediate solutions to this problem. If you notice that it is getting lose and the fibers are likely to be blown into the air, it is time to act immediately. However, it is a good thing that regardless of where you live, finding a professional to help you identify and remove asbestos is not a difficult task. Be sure to contact a professional who is licensed by the relevant authorities in your state to carry out such duties.